A few studies show that consuming kiwifruit has a beneficial effect on the immune system. It helps to reduce the incidence and severity of symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. And it potentially could be more beneficial than supplementation with vitamin C alone.1
Gold kiwifruit contains nutrients important for immune function and mitigation of the symptoms of infection. It’s nutrient load include vitamins C and E, folate, polyphenols, and carotenoids. A randomized crossover study of older individuals contrasted consuming the equivalent of four kiwifruit or two bananas daily for 4 weeks, with treatments separated by a 4-week washout period. Although consuming gold kiwifruit did not significantly reduce the overall incidence of upper respiratory tract infection when compared with banana, it significantly reduced the severity and duration of head congestion, and the duration of sore throat. Gold kiwifruit significantly increased plasma vitamin C, vitamin E, and other antioxidants.2
- Skinner MA. Effects of kiwifruit on innate and adaptive immunity and symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. Adv Food Nutr Res. 2013;68:301-20[↩]
- Hunter DC. Consumption of gold kiwifruit reduces severity and duration of selected upper respiratory tract infection symptoms and increases plasma vitamin C concentration in healthy older adults. Br J Nutr. 2012 Oct; 108(7):1235-45.[↩]
Want help putting this into practice? Wildwood’s Wellness Experience program takes up exactly this work — a residential stay where a Lifestyle Educator guides each guest, one day at a time.
A stay follows a set daily rhythm — plant-based meals, exercise, and classes through the day, with time to rest — and medical care is provided by LifeMed clinicians at the LifeMed branch here in the Lifestyle Center.
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