What are the functions and benefits of kiwifruit?
Sep 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, as a common tropical fruit, kiwifruit's functions and benefits mainly include supplementing vitamin C, promoting digestion, assisting antioxidant activity, protecting vision, and replenishing minerals. When consuming kiwifruit, it is important to note that some individuals may be allergic to it; therefore, it is recommended to try a small amount initially. Additionally, avoid consuming large quantities on an empty stomach to prevent irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa by fruit acids, which may cause discomfort.
Generally speaking, as a common tropical fruit, kiwifruit's main functions and benefits include supplementing vitamin C, promoting digestion, assisting antioxidant activity, protecting vision, and providing essential minerals. The details are as follows:
1. Supplementing Vitamin C: Kiwifruit is rich in vitamin C, with content significantly higher than most other fruits. This component provides ample nutrition for the body, participates in various metabolic processes, helps maintain the normal function of skin and mucous membranes, and is suitable for daily consumption by individuals needing to supplement vitamin C.
2. Promoting Digestion: Kiwifruit contains abundant dietary fiber and protease. Dietary fiber stimulates intestinal peristalsis, while protease aids in protein breakdown. Together, they help improve indigestion, bloating, and other issues, promoting digestion and absorption of food in the intestines, and reducing gastrointestinal burden.
3. Assisting Antioxidant Activity: Kiwifruit contains vitamin C, vitamin E, and various polyphenolic substances, which have certain antioxidant properties. These components help eliminate excess free radicals in the body, reduce cellular damage caused by free radicals, delay skin aging to some extent, and protect the health of body tissues.
4. Protecting Vision: Kiwifruit contains carotenoids and lutein, both of which are beneficial to eye health. Carotenoids can be converted into vitamin A, participating in the synthesis of visual cell photoreceptor substances, while lutein helps protect the retina. It is suitable for individuals who frequently use their eyes, assisting in relieving eye fatigue and maintaining normal visual function.
5. Supplementing Minerals: Kiwifruit contains various minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Potassium helps maintain the body's electrolyte balance, and magnesium participates in energy metabolism. These minerals provide basic nutritional support for the body, helping maintain normal physiological functions.
When consuming kiwifruit, it is important to note that some individuals may be allergic to it; therefore, first-time consumers should try a small amount. Additionally, avoid consuming large quantities on an empty stomach to prevent gastric mucosal irritation caused by fruit acids, which may lead to discomfort.
