Kiwis are a rather odd looking fruit. They’re packed full of flavour and health benefits including;
High in Vitamin C
Many people seem to think that oranges and lemons are the highest sources of vitamin C. But according to the nutritional breakdown of a kiwi fruit they contain twice as much vitamin C as lemons and oranges. With 100 grams containing 154% vitamin C.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can eliminate free radicals that cause inflammation and cancer. It can also help boost immunity.
Sleep Inducer
The antioxidants and serotonin in kiwis may be beneficial for people who have troubles sleeping. These two compounds can actually help induce sleep. People are recommended to eat two kiwi fruits an hour before bed to aid with sleeping.
Good Source of Fibre
Kiwis are full of dietary fibre when can help prevent numerous diseases. Studies have even shown that people who eat fibre-rich foods have a lower risk of developing cardiovascular problems and coronary heart disease. High fibre foods can also keep you feeling fuller for longer, as well as controlling blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. It can also help weight loss and is often recommended for people with diabetes.
Aids Digestion
Kiwi fruits can also help aid digestion; they contain an enzyme called actinidain which is known for being effective when it comes to dissolving protein. This is similar to papain in papaya. Both are commonly used as a meat tenderiser. It helps the body digest protein which can be beneficial for people with irritable bowel syndrome.
Good Source of Folate
Chinese people have valued kiwi for its medical properties for centuries. It’s considered to be good for pregnant women and developing children as it helps the foetus and children grow and develop healthily. This is due to the high amounts of folate in kiwi fruits.
Packed Full of Vitamins and Minerals
Kiwi is loaded with vitamins and minerals such as;
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin E
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Iron
- Magnesium
These help aid the proper functioning of the body, as well as blood circulation, iron absorption (for healthy bones and teeth), good vision, reduced stress and many more positive effects on the body. It can also help with nerve and muscle function.
Gives Your Good Skin
Kiwi fruit is an alkaline, this means that it helps counter the effects of the acidic foods that we often consume. A good pH balance is part of what makes a healthy body, it can help keep you active, give you more energy and give you more youthful skin. The vitamins in kiwi (vitamin C and E) act as a great antioxidant, which is great for the skin and can even prevent skin degradation.
Kiwis are so packed full of vitamins and minerals that it can only take a few slices before you start to notice a difference in your skin.
Kiwis also contain;
- Omega 3 fatty acids
- Carotenoids
- Polyphenols