Chronic constipation is a common problem for modern people forced to work while sitting in a chair for hours. Natural magazine reported the results of a study showing that kiwi is an effective way to get rid of this sensitive issue, writes healthinfo. "Daily consumption of kiwi helps relieve chronic constipation," specialists' opinion is cited in the publication. Scientists experimentally tested kiwi's ability to influence the digestive process. In traditional Chinese medicine, kiwi is characterized as a fruit that improves the function of the digestive tract organs thanks to its high content of antioxidants and fiber. The participants in the experiment were people diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome accompanied by chronic constipation. According to the trial conditions, participants had to consume kiwi daily for four weeks. As a result, scientists reported, the volunteers experienced "improvements in stool softness and volume with no reverse effect — no constipation." Researchers concluded that this positive effect was achieved through the action of the pectin contained in kiwi on the gastrointestinal tract.
The statistics are unforgiving: the world is seeing a rise in deaths from cardiovascular disease. The American Society for Nutrition attributes this to the lack of fruit and vegetables in people's diets, writes Rossiyskaya Gazeta. Experts say that approximately every seventh case of death from heart disease is linked to low fruit consumption, and every twelfth is linked to a vegetable deficit. The most pronounced negative effect can be seen in young people, especially men. Women typically consume plant foods more willingly. Nutritionists emphasize: fruits and vegetables are essential components of any person's diet, capable of preventing early death. Meanwhile, worldwide, the priority has largely shifted toward providing people with calories, vitamins and reducing the consumption of salt and sugar. American specialists believe that a person should eat 300 grams of fruit and 400 grams of vegetables, including legumes, per day.