If you’ve been to New Zealand recently, you have no doubt either tasted or handled kiwi fruit. Kiwifruit, also known as Chinese gooseberry or maturing pear, is the sweet, juicy, fleshy, delectable fruit of many species of bushy woody vines in the family Labradaides-Bosmela (Lamiaceae). The most familiar cultivar group of kiwi fruit is invariably oval, approximately the same size as a small hen’s egg: roughly 5.-5.5 inches in diameter and approximately 4.5 inches in height. This is the familiar “Kiwi” shape which has become synonymous with kiwi fruit. Not only does it bear these elongated, somewhat rounded characteristics, it also has several other interesting physical features that are useful in its culinary and medicinal usages.
Like other fruits, kiwi fruit contains significant amounts of vitamins A, C and E. In fact, all three of these vitamins are significantly more abundant in kiwi fruit than in any other known fruit. The vitamin is found in kiwi fruit is significantly higher than in other fruits, including oranges. Kiwifruit also contains significant amounts of vitamin B-complex and folic acid.
Kiwifruit is a source of food protein and dietary fiber. Like all berries, it is also high in potassium and calcium. Several studies on the health benefits of kiwi fruit have demonstrated an increase in cardiovascular disease, decreased cholesterol levels, reduced cancer risk and lowered blood pressure.
While the scientific evidence is not conclusive on all of these claims, it does seem reasonable to at least take note of the results of clinical trials. In one study, for example, those who ate at least six servings of kiwi fruit per day had lower blood pressure at the end of the 6-week trial. That’s quite the opposite of the results of a study conducted on rats. Rats that were fed only carrots actually showed greater increases in blood pressure.
Some people suffer from allergic reactions to certain foods, but you won’t find that reaction in kiwi fruit. You might wonder what the reaction is regarding kiwi fruits and chemical additives. All fruits contain small amounts of chemical additives and preservatives. Kiwifruits are generally low in these chemicals. You therefore won’t see reactions to kiwi fruit among sensitive individuals, including those with skin problems such as eczema and contact dermatitis.
There are many other health benefits that come from eating kiwi fruit. They are rich in antioxidants, which can protect your body against cancer and other diseases. They also contain plenty of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin E, which helps to reduce the risk of heart disease. So, besides all of the wonderful kiwi fruit benefits, there are some interesting facts about this amazing fruit.