In an article published in the Washington Post, gastroenterologist Trisha Pasricha discusses the benefits of a very particular fruit: the kiwi. The specialist explains that many of her patients complain of digestive disorders such as constipation or abdominal pain, but are often hesitant to take medication. Although it will never replace appropriate treatment, this fruit can relieve certain symptoms, says Trisha Pasricha, who frequently advises her patients to consume it.
A clinical study published in 2022 claims that kiwi naturally contains vitamin C, between 2 and 4g of fiber per fruit, as well as actinidain, a particularly active digestive enzyme. This nutritional cocktail would contribute to a more regular and efficient transit, while offering significant antioxidant effects.
This study was funded by a kiwi fruit distributor, but nevertheless conducted according to rigorous scientific protocols. Researchers found that eating two kiwis a day for four weeks helped participants have regular, complete and healthy bowel movements. People with constipation have seen kiwi improve their symptoms and intestinal discomfort. Kiwis are sometimes even more effective than certain natural laxatives.
A fruit with multiple benefits
But the benefits of kiwi don’t stop there. Dr Pasricha emphasizes that kiwi is part of a rich and diversified diet, essential for maintaining a healthy intestinal microbiota. In addition to its action on transit, this fruit could reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
The specialist supports her statement based on a Norwegian study in which healthy volunteers consumed two golden kiwis per day for a month. This smooth, yellow-skinned variety is sweeter and less tart than green kiwifruit, but is similar in nutrient content.
The study showed that daily consumption of golden kiwis reduced oxidative DNA damage, a factor implicated in the development of cancers. The participants presented a 30% increased resistance to these cellular attacks after one month of consumption.
Another interesting effect linked to the consumption of this fruit: the reduction in blood triglyceride levels, a cardiovascular risk factor. According to the study, regular consumption of kiwis would have helped reduce this rate by around 13%. Another meta-analysis carried out in 2023 on studies on the consumption of fruits, including kiwi, showed that people who ate the most had a 13% reduced risk of developing colon cancer.
