Studies Continue to Show Kiwi is a Superfood with Anticancer Benefits

The study titled "Kiwifruit and Cancer: An Overview of Biological Evidence" by Giuseppe Lippi and Camilla Mattiuzzi explores the potential anticancer properties of kiwifruit, based on a review of eight relevant studies. These included five in vitro studies, two human intervention trials, and one combined in vivo and human study.

Key Findings:

1. 
   Direct Anticancer Effects:

• Indirect Anticancer Effects:

• Broader Health Implications:

• Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory effects combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, which are linked to chronic diseases like cancer.

• Immunoregulatory Activity helps boost immunity, potentially contributing to better general health during cancer treatment.

• Cardiovascular Protection through a combination of antioxidants, vitamins C, E, potassium, and omega-3s. Studies reveal kiwifruit can help lower blood pressure, triglycerides, and the risk of clotting, paralleling the effects of daily aspirin use.

• Improved Digestive Health thanks to dietary fiber and actinidin enzyme, both of which support gut health and waste elimination.

• Enhancements to Sleep and Nervous System Function via serotonin and high copper levels, which improve sleep quality and support nervous system health.

• Vitamin C

  While oranges are often promoted for their vitamin C content, many other fruits have far higher amounts. For example, bell peppers contain 169% of the daily value, and kiwis contain 185% of the daily value, per cup. 

Implications for Cancer Treatment:

This study reinforces the idea that diet plays a crucial role in cancer prevention and treatment. The consumption of kiwifruit as part of a balanced diet offers valuable anticancer benefits while supporting overall health. Oncologists and healthcare providers are encouraged to recommend dietary adjustments, including kiwifruit, as complementary protocols alongside traditional treatment. These recommendations could particularly benefit patients undergoing therapies that weaken immunity or gastrointestinal health.

While further research is needed to fully quantify the effects of kiwifruit on various cancers, the evidence suggests it is a promising addition to cancer-preventive and supportive nutritional strategies.

 References

Lippi, G., & Mattiuzzi, C. (2019). Kiwifruit and Cancer: An Overview of Biological Evidence. Nutrition and Cancer, 72(4), 547–553. https://doi.org/10.1080/01635581.2019.1650190

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