A recent study that was published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, indicates that kiwifruit helps in improving bowel functions. Kiwi could serve as a natural remedy for gastrointestinal disorders such as constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Study
The research employed experts from the School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan. The study evaluates the potential of the kiwi fruit in relieving the symptoms of gastric disorders such as constipation and IBS.
Patients with irritable bowel syndrome also suffer from diarrhea and constipation. Some remedies for the former, might encourage the latter and vice versa.
But, the researchers observed that consuming kiwi improves overall bowel function minus the risk of aggravating either of the symptoms. Also, the kiwifruit prevents the production of inflammatory chemicals, therefore, it can be effective against inflammatory bowel disease as well.
Kiwifruit
The kiwifruit is a creamy and sweet fruit that is traditionally used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has significant potential to help in promoting proper digestion. The researchers have continuously been studying the fruit as a natural remedy for gastrointestinal problems such as chronic constipation.
According to Tophealthjournal constipation affects more than 20% of the American population. Common characteristics of the condition include difficult passage of stools and less than 3 bowel movements per week. The problem usually arises due to poor diet, ageing and physical inactivity.
Most of the time, it is naturally resolved. But, if the condition persists for more than a few weeks, then it is considered chronic. In those cases, healthcare professionals suggest taking laxatives. But, these medications have side effects such as diarrhoea, cramps, electrolyte imbalance and dehydration.
Therefore, people are advised to opt for natural remedies instead. Kiwi is also highly beneficial for those who do not have constipation. They can regularize their bowel movement by consuming kiwi daily. This will not offer any side effects such as diarrhea.
Scientists have attributed the therapeutic potential of kiwi to the phytochemicals, including pectin and actinidin, present in it.
Actinidin is an enzyme that accelerates and eases the flow of substances through the digestive tract. While, pectin is a fiber that bulks up the stool for a smoother passage. Also, these 2 compounds also serve as prebiotics. They prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria and provide foods for beneficial gut bacteria.
Researches state that kiwi-pectin inhibits the growth of Salmonella by reducing their ability to stick to the gut. Moreover, it promotes the growth of Lactobacillus by increasing its stickiness. Since 70 to 80 percent of the immune system is found in the gut, thus these properties of the kiwifruit don’t just benefit gastrointestinal health, but immune functions as well.
Studies have shown that kiwifruit contains the potential use against various gastrointestinal disorders. If you want a healthy gut, then kiwi fruit just might be the fruit for you.
