Consuming two kiwifruit a day can improve one’s mood and boost energy levels, according to research from the University of Otago, Christchurch (UOC), in New Zealand.
Over a six-week period, 54 young male university students ate either two kiwifruit or half a kiwifruit a day as part of the study.
Those that ate two kiwifruit experienced significantly less fatigue and depression than the other group, according to the findings, which were published in the Journal of Nutritional Science.
The UOC's professor Margreet Vissers, who led the study, commented: 'The two kiwifruit per day ensured that the study group’s vitamin C levels were optimal, and this was needed to see an effect on mood and energy. The amount of vitamin C required for this is higher than the current recommended intake. Our study provides good evidence to support the view that there are measureable health benefits to be obtained from eating a good amount of fruit and vegetables daily. For best benefit, it is important to include high vitamin C foods in your daily diet.”
This work was funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment as well as the University of Otago and Zespri International.
