Although many people associate the kiwi fruit with New Zealand, the fruit is native to China, particularly in the country's northern and eastern regions. There are 10 different varieties of kiwi, although the green kiwi is the variety most commonly available in the United States. This fruit features a thin, edible skin housing juicy green flesh. Kiwi contains several nutrients essential for optimal health.
Vitamin C
The kiwi is an abundant source of vitamin C; one kiwi contains about 64 mg of this vitamin. This is about 71 percent of the recommended daily intake for adults. Vitamin C is best known as an immune system enhancer, helping your body ward off bacterial and viral infections. It also helps your body produce serotonin and norepinephrine, which are neurotransmitter chemicals that relieve stress and depression.
Vitamin K
One kiwi contains about 27.8 mcg vitamin K, or about 35 percent of the adult recommended daily allowance. Vitamin K is essential for coagulating blood, which helps prevent excessive bleeding from cuts, scrapes and surgical wounds. It also helps prevent bleeding in of peptic ulcers, as well as liver and intestinal tissues. Vitamin K may help prevent osteoporosis by enhancing the ability of bone cells to use calcium.
Potassium
Potassium is a mineral that is essential for maintaining normal heart rhythms, which may help prevent cardiovascular disease. It also helps maintain proper fluid balance in your body, reducing your risk of dehydration. Potassium aids in the transfer of nutrients through cell membranes. One kiwi contains about 215 mg potassium, or about 4.5 percent of the daily requirement for adults.
Phosphorus
Kiwi contain phosphorus; one kiwi provides about 23 mg of this mineral, or about 3 percent of the recommended daily intake for adults. Phosphorus is necessary for the manufacture of bone cells and promotes proper kidney function. Phosphorus also improves your body's ability to convert nutrients from foods into energy.
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