## Kiwi and Intestinal Transit: Beyond the “Super-Fruit” Hype
This summer, the European Union authorized the first health claim specific to a fruit: green kiwi and its benefits on intestinal transit. But behind this title of super-fruit, the medical verdict is more nuanced.
Two to three green kiwis per day (i.e. 200 grams) for a smooth transit. This is essentially what the European Commission validated on July 30. This is the first time that a fruit has received a “health claim”. Behind this official recognition, the New Zealand producers’ institution Zespri International Limited, which has invested heavily in 18 scientific studies, including 6 dedicated to intestinal health to support this request and obtain this precious sesame. But does this recognition really make the kiwi the undisputed champion of our intestines?
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The Digestive Debate: Actinidin and Protein Breakdown
Kiwi contains an enzyme called actinidin, often touted for its digestive benefits. However, experts remain cautious about its exceptional qualities. “There is nothing exceptional about this enzyme,” explains gastroenterologist and nutritionist Marie-Christine Boutron-Ruault, emeritus research director at Inserm. “Similar enzymes are found in papaya or pineapple.And their effect remains modest,in short,this is not what will make you digest a prime rib.” Protein breakdown primarily relies on pancreatic enzymes, meaning actinidin likely won’t significantly impact digestion unless there’s a pancreatic deficiency.
Tips for Sleep and the Brain
Dr. boutron-Ruault highlights kiwi’s broader nutritional profile as its true strength. “It has as much fiber as an apple, more vitamin C than an orange and also folate, essential for the proper progress of the fetus in pregnant women.”
Beyond aiding digestion, kiwi consumption may also promote better sleep. “Two New Zealand studies compared the consumption of kiwi and pear before bed.researchers found that kiwi eaters fell asleep faster and had more restful sleep,” reports dr. Marie-Christine Boutron-Ruault. This effect is hypothesized to be due to kiwi’s precursors of serotonin – the hormone associated with well-being – improved nighttime digestion, and antioxidants that protect the brain.