Dr. Sunil - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Sunil

Are Kiwis Bad For You?

Also Known As: Chinese gooseberry, kiwifruit


Grade

A


Short answer

Unless you are allergic, are about to have surgery, or are taking Warfarin (Coumadin), kiwis are hard to beat as one of nature's healthiest fruits and sources of important nutrients.

Grade

A


Long answer

Small as they are, kiwis pack quite the nutritional punch. Assuming a serving size of two medium-sized kiwis, the benefits of enjoying this delicious fruit are enormous. Vitamin C is found in an abundance - almost twice as that of oranges. This vitamin helps boost immunity, combat stress and aging, and promotes iron absorption. Vitamin E, also important as an antioxidant and immune system booster, has the added effect of helping to lower cholesterol. Kiwis are also high in serotonin - a chemical that aids in having a good night's sleep, being alert in the morning, and learning. It also helps regulate your appetite, so eating kiwis is a good way to stock up on nutrients and avoid overeating.

Magnesium, essential for our nerves and muscles to function properly, are also found in abundance. Additionally, there is 20% more potassium in a kiwi than in a banana. Kiwis are also high in fiber and contain actinidin (an enzyme that aids in digestion), and are therefore good to consume to keep the digestive system regular and healthy.

Yet another benefit of eating kiwis is that they have been shown to promote healthy breathing and in fact have been used in asthma treatment. As an alkaline fruit, kiwis also help keep the body's acidity/alkaline levels balanced.

There must be something bad, right? Well, it depends. If you are allergic to avocado, birch pollen, hazelnut, poppy seeds, figs, latex, sesame seeds, rye, or wheat, you may also have a kiwi allergy. Symptoms of being allergic to kiwis include trouble swallowing, hives, and vomiting. 

Also, kiwis contain a high amount of vitamin K. While vitamin K (particularly K2) is necessary for the transport of calcium, it may also have a negative impact if you are taking Warafin as it is involved in blood clotting. It is also generally recommended to not eat kiwis for at least two weeks prior to surgery as doing so may slow down the process of blood clotting.


Possible short-term side effects

  • allergic reaction

Ingredients to be aware of

  • excess vitamin k


Benefits

  • protects against cancer
  • fights asthma
  • aids in learning and memory
  • helps with restful sleep
  • promotes healthy digestion
  • can be enjoyed by diabetics
  • improves nerve / muscle function
  • fights stress / aging
  • boosts immune system



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Jeff Volling
Published on: 12-28-2015
Last updated: 12-10-2016

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Jeff Volling
Published on: 12-28-2015
Last updated: 12-10-2016




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