This Week: Kiwi Fruit!

Kiwi fruits are known as ‘powerhouses’ of vitamins and minerals. Just to name a few, they contain a good amount of Fiber, Protein, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Folate, Copper, Potassium and Magnesium. They also contain a huge amount of vitamin C, with one single kiwi fruit providing up to 83% of the Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI). Vitamin C is rather important for out health as it is a powerful antioxidant, boosts immune function and is used to make collagen, which aids in healing.

As well as containing a lot of minerals and vitamins, kiwis are low in calories and fat, making them a great addition to your regular diet. They are a great source of plant compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Carotenoids are a group of these plant compounds, and kiwis have a lot of them, including lutein, zeaxanthin and beta carotene. These compounds help in protecting against health conditions, such as heart disease. These carotenoids, in tandem with Vitamin C and Vitamin E, are associated with lower risks of heart disease and cancers of all types.
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Kiwis are known to be more helpful than apples in reducing high blood pressure, and may help in reducing cholesterol. They have been used to aid people with constipation issues, and are a great alternative to the classic prune usage for this.
 
Detriments: Kiwis have very littler in the way of adverse affects on the body, apart from people with allergies. Signs of a kiwi allergy can include an itchy throat, swollen tongue, trouble swallowing, wheezing, abdominal pain, vomiting and hives. Seek medical attention if you notice any of these symptoms after eating kiwi fruit.