Ever since I turned 40, I’ve been on a serious hunt for healthy fats - especially from African foods. You know...the kind that keep your skin glowing, your hormones balanced, and stop your joints from sounding like a creaky door hinge in a horror movie.
Because once you hit 40, your body starts sending you random thoughts like:
“Hi, just checking in. We no longer process stress, sugar, or nonsense the way we used to. Kindly adjust.”
So now, I pay attention to any food that promises glow, youth, and weight management. And that’s exactly how I found myself appreciating the African pear.
What is the African Pear?
The African pear (also called bush pear, safou, atanga, or Dacryodes edulis) is a rich, buttery fruit native to Central and West Africa. It’s usually roasted or boiled until soft, enjoyed as a snack, or paired with roasted corn.
It’s deeply rooted in African food traditions — but what makes it extra special is what’s inside.
Image of African pear from myburntorange.com
Nutritional Highlights
Here’s what makes this fruit a mini nutritional powerhouse:
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High in healthy fats — up to 48% fat, and much of it is the good kind.
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Contains oleic acid, the same heart-healthy fat found in olive oil and avocados.
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Rich in vitamin E, one of the most powerful antioxidants for skin and immune support.
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Contains vitamin C, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and fibre.
These nutrients work together to support the skin, heart, digestion, bones, and overall wellbeing.
The Health Benefits of African Pear
1. A great source of healthy fats
The creamy richness of African pear comes from unsaturated fats — the kind that support your heart, hormones, and cell health.
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Your cells love this fruit. Healthy fats keep the membranes of your cells strong and flexible.
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Your heart loves it too. Oleic acid helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
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And yes, your waistline loves it too. The fat + fibre combo keeps you fuller for longer, helping with balanced eating.
2. Vitamin E for glowing skin and cell protection
The fruit is a natural source of vitamin E — the antioxidant known for protecting skin, fighting inflammation, and helping cells repair themselves.
It supports:
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Youthful, hydrated skin
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Skin healing and elasticity
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Lower inflammation inside the body
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Stronger immunity (especially when combined with vitamin C)
3. Minerals for bone strength, nerve function, and digestion
African pear also contains:
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Calcium for stronger bones
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Potassium and magnesium for muscle and nerve function
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Fibre for smoother digestion and gut health
These nutrients make the fruit not just nourishing, but incredibly functional for overall wellness.
Image of African Pear from Cross River Forest Facebook
How to Enjoy African Pear
This is how I have seen others enjoy African Pear on Youtube:
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Roast or grill it until the pulp becomes soft and creamy.
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Boil it and enjoy it with roasted corn (a classic combo across West Africa).
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Mash it and spread on toast like avocado.
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Add it to salads or bowls for a rich, buttery flavour.
Remember a little goes a long way because it’s nutrient-dense and filling.
Conclusion
Now that I know how nutrient-packed this fruit is, African pear has officially been added to my “foods I’m sprinting towards the minute I land back on the African continent.”
Because once you’re over 40, you don’t play around with foods that promise youthful skin, healthy fats, and a healthy waistline — you embrace them like old friends!