FACTS ABOUT KIWI

Published by landbank at February 3, 2023

The kiwi shortened from its full name, the kiwifruit – is actually a large berry that grows on a species of woody vine in the genus Actinidia. Kiwis have been famously cultivated in New Zealand, but this bold berry actually originated in eastern China.

The kiwi typically grows in the shape of an oval and is roughly around the size of a typical chicken egg. Its skin is camel-colored, fibrous, and coated in a light fuzz. Despite its fuzzy covering, the kiwi’s skin is edible and tart. The kiwi’s flesh is bright green with a unique but pleasing texture and rows of distinctive tiny black seeds, which can also be eaten. Kiwis have a sweet, tart, and bold taste making them a popular addition to a healthy breakfast or lunch.

Kiwis are high in Vitamin C and dietary fiber and provide a variety of health benefits. This tart fruit can support heart health, digestive health, and immunity. The kiwi is a healthy choice of fruit and is rich with vitamins and antioxidants Its tart flavor, pleasing texture, and low calorie count make it a delicious and healthy option for snacking, sides, or a unique dessert.

Health Benefits

The vitamins, fiber, and antioxidant can provide essential health benefits. The flesh is rich with vitamins that stimulate immunity and reduce the risk of disease.

The soluble dietary fiber found in kiwis can help stimulate regular and healthy digestion. Kiwis can provide other health benefits like:

Immunity

Kiwi contains abundant amounts of Vitamin C which stimulates the body’s immune response. In fact, the kiwifruit contains roughly 230% of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C. This bold fruit provides a burst of immune-boosting nutrients in every bite.

Kiwis are also rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help to eliminate free radicals within the body and reduce oxidative stress. Ultimately, this may protect the body from inflammation and disease.

Heart Health

The kiwifruit possesses properties that lower blood pressure. By helping to maintain a healthy blood pressure and providing a boost of Vitamin C, the kiwifruit can reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.

Treatment of Asthma

The abundance of Vitamin C in kiwis has been linked to the reduction of wheezing symptoms in some asthma patients. This is especially true of children, who seem to benefit the most from the consumption of kiwis.

Nutrition

Kiwis are an excellent source of:

Vitamin C
Dietary Fiber
Iron
Carotenoids
Antioxidants

Nutrients per Serving

A 140 gram serving of kiwi contains:

Calories: 90
Protein 1 grams
Fat: 1 grams
Carbohydrates: 21 grams
Fiber: 5 grams
Sugar: 15 grams

Portion Sizes

Kiwi is a delicious and healthy snack, but, like all fruits, it still contains naturally occurring sugar. Because of this, you should consume kiwis in moderation. Limiting your intake of kiwi to 140 grams or less is essential to maintaining a balanced diet.

Things to Watch Out For

Kiwis are a delightful fruit, but many people are affected by kiwi allergies. Symptoms can range in severity from very mild to more severe. Mild symptoms might include