A few studies show that consuming kiwifruit has a beneficial effect on the immune system and helps to reduce the incidence and severity of symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections and potentially 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, including 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
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is educational and general in nature. Neither Wildwood Lifestyle Center, its entities, nor author intend this article as a substitute for medical diagnosis, counsel, or treatment by a qualified health professional.
Sources
- 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.↩