We've all heard the adage, "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day." But imagine if your breakfast was something more than just a forced mean and is rather something that was tasty and a powerhouse full of goodness that would prepare you for a healthier day, and even a healthier life. This star food team is kiwi! Much too often, this fuzzy green fruit is overlooked in place of berries or bananas, however, this underrated food item is a nutritional rockstar just waiting to be your breakfast BFF.
Health Benefits Of Having Kiwi In Breakfast
So, why should kiwi be your breakfast staple? We got in touch with our expert, Dr Bhumesh Tyagi, Consultant, General Medicine and Physician, Shardacare, Health City, Noida, and he shared with us the health benefits making this fruit an absolute must-have on your breakfast plate. Here is what he explained to us:
1. Vitamin C Powerhouse
Kiwis are full of Vitamin C, usually holding more per serving than citrus fruits. This antioxidant powerhouse is essential for a strong immune system, fighting off colds and flu, and keeping you energized. Having a morning pick-me-up from Vitamin C in kiwi can keep sluggish mornings at bay and you radiant. In addition to immunity, Vitamin C is needed for collagen synthesis, or stronger skin, hair, and nails.
Also Read: Can Syncing Your Workouts With Your Menstrual Cycle Boost Fitness? Expert Explains
2. Digestive Dynamo
One of the kiwi's most famous advantages is its incredible effect on digestion. Kiwis contain high levels of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. This trusty pair works miracles on your digestive system. Soluble fiber assists in the regulation of blood sugar as well as cholesterol, while insoluble fiber helps to bulk up your stool, facilitating regular bowel movements and avoiding constipation.
And that's not all! Kiwis have an exclusive enzyme known as actinidin. This proteolytic enzyme serves to break down proteins, facilitating digestion and alleviating bloating and discomfort. “For individuals who feel digestive sluggishness, adding kiwi to your breakfast could be life-changing, leading to a sense of lightness and normalcy during the day,” Dr Tyagi highlighted.
3. Sleep Soundly with Serotonin Support
Having trouble sleeping tonight? Believe it or not, your breakfast may make a difference. Kiwis have serotonin, a neurotransmitter that has a significant impact on sleep cycles. As you're consuming it during the morning, the consistent consumption of food containing serotonin may lead to a more balanced internal clock, which could yield improved quality of sleep in the long run. Think of it as setting the stage for peaceful nights even as you begin your day.
4. Heart-Healthy Hero
The advantages of kiwi don't stop at your cardiometabolic system. The fibre content, as noted, serves to reduce cholesterol levels. Kiwis are also rich in potassium, an essential nutrient for keeping blood pressure levels healthy and fighting off the ill effects of sodium. The antioxidants in kiwi, such as Vitamin C and Vitamin E, work to keep your cells safe from oxidative damage, thus assisting in a healthier heart. Adding kiwi as part of your routine breakfast could be as easy as taking a step towards a stronger, healthier heart.
5. Antioxidant Abundance
Beyond Vitamin C, kiwis are packed with an array of other antioxidants, including Vitamin E, polyphenols, and carotenoids. These powerful compounds combat free radicals in the body, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and contribute to chronic diseases and aging. A breakfast rich in antioxidants from kiwi helps to protect your cells, promote overall well-being, and even give your skin a healthy glow.
How to Get Kiwi to be Your Breakfast Best Friend:
The best thing about kiwi is that it can be used in so many ways! Here are some tasty and simple ways to add it to your breakfast:
- Simply cut it in half lengthwise and scoop the flesh out with a spoon.
- Blend it with your favorite fruits, yoghurt, and a splash of milk to create a colourful and healthy smoothie.
- Alternate the sliced kiwi with Greek yoghurt, granola, and more fruit for a tasty and satisfying parfait.
- Chop kiwi and mix it into your oatmeal in the morning for an injection of flavor and nutrition.
- Mix kiwi into your fruit salad for a taste of the tropics and a boost of vitamins.
- Mash ripe kiwi with a hint of honey and spread it on whole-wheat toast for a healthy and new breakfast.
Bottomline
So, next morning, do away with the routine and grab a kiwi. Its bright colour, tart-sweet taste, and amazing list of health benefits make it the ideal pal to start your day. Make kiwi your breakfast BFF, and wake up to a healthier, happier version of yourself.