Kiwifruit, or Kiwi, as it is popularly called, is the edible berry native to north-central and eastern China. It is also known as Chinese Gooseberry. Cultivation of Kiwifruit spread from China to New Zealand in 1910. One now thinks of Kiwi as native to New Zealand as the locals are referred in slang as Kiwis.
1. Nutritional Content : This fruit is very Low in Saturated fat and Sodium. It is a very good source of Dietary fibre, Vitamin E (Alpha Tucaphenol), Potassium and Copper and a very good source of Vitamin C and K. Also contains Foliate, Choline, Betaine and Calcium, Phosphorus and Magnesium.
2. Vitamin C: A single Kiwifruit supplies more than the normal daily requirement of Vitamin C, which is essential for wound healing and a healthy Immune system.
3. Potassium : Kiwifruit contains a high amount of Potassium, which helps to counteract a High Sodium Content in our diets, and is linked to High Blood Pressure.
4. Sugar Content : Kiwifruit has a Low Sugar Content, so is a very good fruit for people trying to control their blood sugar. The abundant Soluble fibre content of kiwi helps to control blood sugar levels and lower blood cholesterol levels.
5. Sleep Inducer : The anti-oxidants and serotonin in kiwi is beneficial in the treatment of sleep disorders. Take one or two kiwifruits before bedtime to help with sleep.
6. Helps in Irritable Bowel Syndrome : Kiwifruit contains an enzyme known as actinidian which helps in digestion of proteins in the body. Thus helps people suffering from IBS.
7. Folate : It is a good source of Folate which is essential in pregnancy and for growing children.
8. Skincare : Kiwifruit is highly Alkaline in nature, so counteracts the effect of acidity. The Vitamins C and E in Kiwi keeps the skin youthful and glowing.
Caution
Kiwifruit is safe for most people but when eaten in excess, might make Bleeding Disorders (Blood clotting) worse.
It is best to exercise caution when consuming Kiwifruit before a scheduled surgery.