No wonder the Chinese appreciated the kiwi for its healing properties. This is a good source of folic acid, which is said to be beneficial for pregnant women because it contributes to the healthy development of the fetus.
A storehouse of vitamins and minerals
Kiwi contains vitamins A, B6, B12, E, as well as potassium, calcium, iron and magnesium. All of them together contribute to the normal functioning of the body, improving blood circulation in the vessels, helping to fight stress, absorb iron for healthy bones and teeth, improving eyesight, etc.
A high potassium level, 312 mg per 100 g, helps maintain blood pressure, while magnesium normalizes the functioning of nervous and muscle functions.
Kiwi is the historical homeland of China, which is why it is sometimes called the Chinese gooseberry. But now kiwi plantations are in many countries. For example, these fruits are brought to Ukraine from Italy, Spain, and Greece.
Most of the kiwi is water (about 84%). In addition, it contains proteins (1%), fats (less than 1%), carbohydrates (10%), as well as dietary fiber, nicotinic acid, mono- and disaccharides. Kiwi is low-calorie, but it is very rich in vitamins and minerals. And the biggest plus is that they do not collapse during conservation, due to the acidity of kiwi.
Vitamin C Source
If you thought lemons and oranges are the main sources of vitamin C, then think again. In fact, kiwi fruits per 100 g contain 154% vitamin C, which is almost twice as much as lemons and oranges. Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, eliminating free radicals that can cause inflammation or cancer. They also help the immune system fight against harmful pathogens.
Helps Fight Sleep Disorders
Trouble sleeping? According to a study by Taipei Medical University, “numerous studies have shown that kiwi contains many medically beneficial compounds, including antioxidants and serotonin, which can be useful in treating sleep disorders.” It is said that eating two kiwi fruits an hour before bedtime can improve sleep quality.
Good source of fiber
This exotic fruit is rich in fiber, which helps in the prevention of numerous diseases. According to a study by the University of Leeds, “increasing the intake of fiber-rich foods can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and coronary heart disease (CHD).” According to scientists from the University of Massachusetts medical school, fiber-containing foods retain a longer sense of satiety and control metabolic markers: blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. In addition, fiber contributes to weight loss, and is also often recommended for diabetics.
Improves digestion
Kiwi fruit contains the actinidin enzyme, known for its protein dissolution property. That is why kiwi is often used to make meat softer. In addition, it helps in the absorption of proteins in the body, and is also useful for patients with irritable bowel syndrome.
Kiwi beauty benefits
Beautiful skin
Kiwi has an alkaline nature, which means that it helps withstand the effects of acidic foods that we often consume. A healthy body is a body with a good pH balance that helps maintain your energy level and youthful skin. It is said that the vitamins contained in kiwi (especially C and E) are very beneficial for the skin, as they act as antioxidants to prevent skin aging.
In addition to the above qualities, kiwi fruits contain omega-3 fatty acids, carotenoids, polyphenols and contribute to heart health. The benefits of kiwi are innumerable, so adding them to your diet will be very beneficial.
Beauty Recipes
Nourishing skin mask
Mix the flesh of one kiwi, 1 tbsp. cream and 1 tsp honey. Apply the resulting mixture to cleansed skin, avoiding the area around the eyes. Keep the mask on your face for 20 minutes, rinse with cool water.
Anti-aging peeling with kiwi
Mix the flesh of one kiwi and 2 tbsp. finely ground coffee grounds. Gently massage your face with a scrub, leave it on for 5 minutes. Rinse with cool water.
Mask for combination skin
Mix the flesh of one kiwi with one beaten egg white, 1 tsp. vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon green clay. Stir everything until smooth and apply on face for 10 minutes. Rinse with cool water.
Winter mask against oily hair
To keep your hair fresh longer in winter, do this mask once a week. Combine the flesh of two kiwi fruits, the juice of half a lemon and 100 ml of natural yogurt without additives. Apply the mixture to the roots of dry hair, and after 15 minutes, stretch the mask along the entire length. After 10 minutes, rinse off the mask with warm water and rinse thoroughly with shampoo.
Contraindications to the use of kiwi are: a stomach ulcer and duodenal ulcer, exacerbation of gastritis and pancreatitis, allergy.
