Imagine learning how to improve your energy, attitude, and general well-being in a quick and tasty method. That’s precisely what recent studies utilizing natural nutrition and technology have shown. Recent research has shown that kiwifruit is a powerful mood enhancer that can significantly improve mood in as little as four days. Particularly notable for its high vitamin C content, this soft, green fruit has been associated to improved mood, vitality, well-being, and decreased symptoms of depression in the past.
The goal of a study conducted by researchers at the University of Otago in New Zealand was to ascertain how quickly mood enhancement occurred after consuming vitamin C pills or whole foods like kiwis. 155 adults with low vitamin C levels participated in an eight-week trial where they were split into groups and given two kiwi fruits a day, a vitamin C supplement, or a placebo. After that, they answered surveys on their smartphones about different facets of their well-being.
Kiwifruit quickly increased participants’ energy and mood; effects became apparent in as little as four days, and they peaked after two weeks. Tablets containing vitamin C also produced some benefit, though not as much. This suggests that kiwifruit, which are high in vitamin C and other nutrients, may be a valuable ally in improving mental health.
According to coauthor Professor Tamlin Conner of the Department of Psychology, “it’s great for people to know that small changes in their diet, like adding kiwifruit, could make a difference in how they feel every day.” This information was released by the university.
“The use of intensive smartphone surveys offers a real-time understanding of the day-to-day changes in mood-related outcomes.”
Kiwifruit is a multinutrient bundle that contains vitamin C in addition to other elements that work together to promote mood. The study proposes that kiwifruit’s ability to improve mood and vigor may be due in part to the combination of vitamin C, dietary fiber, folate, and other substances.
Foods high in vitamin C are far more useful, even though the vitamin C tablets did enhance some people’s moods.
“This helps us see that what we eat can have a relatively fast impact on how we feel,” says Dr. Ben Fletcher. “Our participants had relatively good mental health to begin with so had little room for improvement, but still reported the benefits of kiwifruit or vitamin C interventions.”
“We encourage a holistic approach to nutrition and well-being, incorporating various nutrient-rich foods into your diet,” Dr. Fletcher concludes.