Tropical miracle: how kiwi affects your body

Kiwi is not only a delicious tropical fruit with a bright taste, but also a real source of nutrients. Its greenish pulp contains a powerful complex of vitamins, antioxidants and fiber.

Regular consumption of this fetus can have a positive effect on various body systems – from heart to digestion. But is kiwi really really useful when they say? The answer knows Eatthis.com.

Kiwi – ally for the health of the heart

Everyone knows that excess salt has a harmful effect on the heart. But it is also important to take into account the ratio of sodium and potassium, and not just the amount of salt in the diet.

The nutritionist Loren Minhen explains: “Potassium and sodium should work in pairs – they regulate the water balance, heart rate, pressure, cell function and muscle work.”

Kiwi contains a lot of potassium and almost does not have sodium, so this is a great choice for maintaining the cardiovascular system.

“If you prefer high potassium products, including Kiwi, this will help compensate for sodium – reduce pressure, stabilize the heartbeat and maintain water exchange,” adds Minhen.

In addition, each fruit contains a little more than 2 grams of fiber, which has a positive effect on the heart. Scientific studies show: a diet rich in fiber reduces the risk of heart disease and promotes weight loss.

Kiwi improves digestion

Speaking of the fiber, you cannot miss the theme of digestion. Dietary fiber helps to fight both constipation and diarrhea, as well as contribute to the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. But the advantages of kiwi for the digestive system do not end.

In the 2010 study, it was proved that the acinidine enzyme contained in kiwi helps to digest proteins, facilitating their splitting in the gastrointestinal tract.

Benefit for vision

Kiwi contains two powerful antioxidants – Luthein and Zeaksantin. These substances accumulate in the retina and help fight harmful free radicals, preventing diseases such as degeneration of the yellow spot and cataracts.

In order to maintain vision, Mingen advises to prepare a salad of green leaves, tomatoes, sunflower seeds and kiwi seasoned with Balmsic dressing.

Prevention of anemia

Although oranges are traditionally considered a source of vitamin C, one kiwi fruit contains approximately 56 milligrams of this vitamin – 62% of the daily rate for men and 75% for women.

Sufficient consumption of vitamin C contributes to better absorption of iron from food, helping to prevent a deficiency of this element.

“Kiwi, combined with iron, can improve its absorption, which is important to prevent anemia of iron deficiency,” Minhen emphasizes.

Promoting weight loss

Each kiwi contains only about 44 kcal, which is much less than many other sweet snacks. Therefore, replacing calorie aromas with this fruit can help reduce the total consumption of calories, which will contribute to the loss of overweight.

The 2018 study said that the regular use of two fruits per day for three months leads to a significant decrease in the waist and improved health.

Blood sugar control

The glycemic index (GI) Kiwi is about 50, which makes it a product with moderately low GI. This means that the fetus does not cause a sharp jump into blood glucose.

“Products with a low glycemic index are especially valuable for people with diabetes, since they allow you to better control the sugar level without a significant release of insulin,” Minhen explains.

If you want something sweet, but without glucose swings, try a strip of kiwi, Greek yogurt, macadamia milk and a pinch of coconut.

Potential harm: risk of kidney stones

For some people, a stunning kiwi may not be safe. This fruit contains a large number of oxalate – vegetable substances that contribute to the formation of kidney stones.

Those who have a tendency to urolite should be careful and not abuse kiwi. In this case, it is better to leave it in the list of “sometimes permitted” products.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA published a list of products that are good for health.