Kiwi – For a Healthy Heart

According to a recent investigation, the kiwi fruit, if eaten everyday, can help lower the serum triglyceride level and help keep the lipid profile in check. The fruit prevents a build-up of plaques within the arterial walls, averts platelet clumping, and thus, prevents arterial narrowing and obstruction, consequently, guarding against ischemic heart disease (IHD).

These health benefits are attributed to the presence of vitamin C, vitamin E, and poly-phenols in great quantities, in the fruit. In the study, participants who ate 2 – 3 kiwis per day, for a period of 1 month, showed a 15 % reduction in the level of serum triglycerides, and an 18 % diminution in the platelet aggregation. Experts say, that, a suitable diet, required life-style changes, adequate exercise / physical activity, and optimum stress management, are key factors, that are very essential to keep the heart healthy.

Quick serving ideas for the kiwi fruit:

1. Kiwis combine well with most other fruits, especially with, apples, grapes, and oranges. Add them to fruit salads.
2. Kiwis can also be added to green salads.
3. A smoothie made out of yogurt and kiwis, makes a wholesome and a low calorie snack.

Nutritional highlights of the kiwi fruit:

• The kiwi is a brilliant source of vitamin C.
• It is a very rich source of dietary fibre.
• Vitamin A and vitamin E are found in abundance.

Health benefits of the kiwi fruit:

Kiwis are predominantly useful in promoting the health of the respiratory system. This is because of the high content of vitamin C in them. A clinical trial conducted on 6 year and 7 year old children, in Italy, showed that children, who consumed more of the fruit, were less prone to respiratory diseases. The fruit helps control difficult breathing, wheezing, and coughs.

Dr Shweta Shah is a life style expert with emphasis on alternative medicine and treatment. Her core areas include homoeopathy, diet, nutrition, yoga and acupressure therapy. As a Medical Content Writer she has also been involved in contributing several articles for health and wellness sites on professional basis. She also contributes to HealthUnlimited, with the objective of disseminating essential and healthy life style tips.

For more details visit http://zerodisease.blogspot.com

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