Introduction:
The kiwifruit, or Chinese gooseberry was originally grew wild in China and Nepal. The fruits are rich in in nutrients and low in calories. A schoolteacher introduced the fruit to New Zealand in 1904, upon returning from China with seeds. The New Zealanders called it “kiwi” after their national bird.
Kiwi has a reputation as a health food because of its high vitamin C content and also rich in other nutrients. These may help reduce blood pressure, boost wound healing, help maintain bowel health, and more.
Species of kiwi plants:
The genus Actinidia comprises around 60 species. Mostly common species of are: Actinidia deliciosa, Actinidia arguta and Actinidia kolomikta. Their fruits are quite variable, although most are easily recognized as kiwifruit because of their appearance and shape. The skin of the fruit varies in size, hairiness and color. The flesh varies in color, juiciness, texture and taste. Some fruits are unpalatable and others taste considerably better than the majority of commercial cultivars. Some of the commonly known varieties are:
- Elmwood
- Dexter
- Abbott
- Tewi
- Vincent
- Tomuri
- Allison
- Bruno
- Gracie
- Monty
Nutrition
In a 100-gram (3.5 oz) amount, green kiwifruit provides 61 calories, is 83% water and 15% carbohydrates, with negligible protein and fat (table). It is particularly rich in vitamin C (112% DV) and vitamin K (38% DV), has a moderate content of vitamin E (10% DV), with no other micronutrients in significant content. Gold kiwifruit has similar nutritional value, but higher vitamin C content, (194% DV, table).
Kiwifruit seed oil contains on average 62% alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. Kiwifruit pulp contains carotenoids, such as provitamin A beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. (source: Wikipedia )
Health Benifits:
- Healthful skin
- Better sleep
- Heart health and blood pressure
- Kidney stone prevention
- Cancer prevention
- Bone health
- Boosts the immune system
- Reduces blood clotting.
- Protect against vision loss. ( Source : medicalnewstoday , https://www.healthline.com )
