One of the most distinctive fruits that is available on our planet is the kiwi fruit. It’s unique vibrant green color makes it an inviting snack. Although getting that furry green coating off of it can be a bit of an irritant, the reward is a nutrient-rich snack that is extremely healthy for you. Here are some interesting facts about this fascinating fruit that you may not have known.
1. It’s pack full of fiber content.
Just one kiwi fruit has about the same amount of fiber as a serving of whole grain cereal. It also scores well on the glycemic index, so it’s a good natural food option for people who are struggling to control their blood sugar. The high levels of soluble and insoluble fiber also helps to aid digestion while it lowers cholesterol.
2. Lots and lots of folic acid.
Women are encouraged to make sure they’re getting enough folic acid when pregnant because it helps to reduce birth defects, particularly within the neural tube. Kiwis have plenty of folic acid, making them a good diet choice, and 2 kiwis in one serving will provide people with the same amount of vitamin C that an orange has.
3. Get your potassium.
The average diet today is generally low in potassium. Potassium supplements only provide a fraction of the daily requirement that is needed. Rather than eat 11 bananas every day to get enough of this vital dietary component, people could add kiwis to the menu. Just 2 kiwis have enough potassium to equal one banana. As you’re peeling that banana for a snack, why not peel a kiwi too?
4. It’s a new fruit to the market.
The kiwi has been a staple of the New Zealand diet for over a century, but it’s a relatively new fruit on the world’s scene. It’s popularity has helped to quickly spread it to other growing regions, however, so countries from France to Chile are now cultivating this fruit so that there is enough to meet demand.
5. They’re actually not called a “kiwi.”
The reason why these green fruits are called kiwis is so that people know where the fruits were originally cultivated. In reality, the name of the fruit in Yang Tao. Loosely translated, it means “Chinese Gooseberry.” If you happen to pick up a few at the store and they seem under-ripe, stick them in a paper bag with a banana or an apple overnight. You’ll be having kiwi for breakfast!
6. Use a spoon.
If peeling the kiwi is too much work, treat the fruit like you would a grapefruit. Cut it in half, use a spoon, and just scoop it out. You’ll have lots of energy afterward thanks to the huge punch of nutrition that you’ll get.
Kiwi fruits are one of the best foods on the planet today. In many ways, it truly is a superfood because of all the health benefits that it can provide. Pick up a few the next time you visit the store and enjoy.