Kiwi Fruit Benefits

Kiwi is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which is the reason behind the numerous kiwi fruit benefits. To know more about the health benefits of kiwi fruit, read on…

Well I can’t speak for all, but one look at the shimmery greenish slices of kiwi during a hot summer afternoon soothes me like nothing else. And all that I could think of, would be to put one juicy slice in my mouth. Although a native of China, this fruit is more popularly known as the kiwi fruit or simply kiwi. (Its other name is the Chinese gooseberry). It derives its name from the resemblance of its hairy brown skin to the fuzzy coat of the kiwi bird which is the national bird of Australia. I am glad that I like this fruit as besides its cool, sweet and tangy taste there are numerous kiwi fruit benefits.

Kiwi Fruit Benefits – Nutritional Value The following nutrition facts

are be attributed for the numerous health benefits of kiwi fruit.

Vitamins Kiwi is a rich source of Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that works effectively against the harmful effects of free radicals

, thus protecting the body against a host of diseases starting from cancer to obesity and also asthma. Vitamin E, though a fat soluble form, is complementary to the beneficial effects of Vitamin C.

Fiber Another health benefit of kiwi is that it fights against diabetes and colon cancer. Kiwi has high fiber content. Fiber controls the level of sugar in one’s blood. It binds with toxic materials in the colon and helps in expelling them. The fiber also helps in lowering the amount of bad cholesterol in blood. This improves the health of those with cardiovascular diseases and reduces the risk of heart attacks. Read more on high fiber fruits

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Minerals Kiwi fruits are rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium and copper. Potassium counteracts the action of sodium chloride in causing high blood pressure. Hence, it is beneficial in lowering blood pressure and preventing heart diseases associated with it. Magnesium and copper play an important role in strengthening of bones. In addition to its bone strengthening properties, copper also facilitates brain development and sprucing up the immune system. Hence, these kiwi fruit nutrition facts

again make it a good candidate for children.

Flavonoid Antioxidants Studies have shown that kiwi is beneficial for reducing the occurrence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) which is the main cause of vision impairment in adults. This effect of kiwi fruits is attributed to the flavonoid antioxidants like beta carotene, lutein and xanthin. These antioxidants

also prevent cataracts, heart diseases and cancer.

Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids Not only the flesh but even the seeds of kiwi fruit have nutritional value. When crushed, the seeds yield an oil that is rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids

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Other Kiwi Fruit Benefits

• Kiwi also has positive effects on the respiratory system. A study conducted in Italy has shown that children who consumed kiwi fruits and other citrus fruits on a daily basis had lower risk of developing respiratory problems like wheezing, coughs and runny noses than those who did not include these fruits in their regular diet. It is specifically useful in treating asthma in children.
• Kiwi fruit is also a natural blood thinner. Studies have shown that consuming 2 to 3 kiwi fruits daily for 28 days causes considerable thinning of blood. This reduces the risk of blood clot and reduces fats in blood that may lead to blockages.
• The high fiber content also has a mild laxative effect. Hence, it is useful in dealing with constipation.
• Flavonoids present in the fruit increases the nutritional value of kiwi fruit. The flavonoids protect the cells of the body from the harmful effects of oxidation. It also lessen the chances of DNA mutations occurring within the cells.
• One of the many benefits of kiwi fruit is that it facilitates absorption of iron, thus preventing anemia.
• Folate in kiwi plays an important role in the cell development in pregnant women. Hence, this fruit is great during pregnancy.
• Kiwi fruits are rich in anti-oxidants that reduce signs of aging considerably. Ascorbic acid present in this fruit is an excellent astringent. It provides great result in tightening the skin and the pores on it.
• Consumption of kiwi fruit strengthens metabolism and improves nerve function.
• It also helps to maintain proper fluid balance in the body.

The numerous kiwi fruit benefits leaves no reason why this fruit should not be included in one’s regular diet. And not to forget the taste. It is an excellent option of becoming healthy, the tasty way.