Discover the fruit that boosts your happiness

We all love the sweet taste of chocolate, and for good reason—it has a unique combination of flavors and textures that create a pleasurable sensation, triggering specific areas of our brain to improve our mood. What’s more it contains tryptophan, an amino acid that helps the brain make serotonin, a neurotransmitter that makes us feel good.

But before you reach for the chocolate, you should know that researchers at the University of Otago have found evidence that there’s an alternative that’s not only healthier but also elevates our happiness levels: the humble kiwi.

Kiwis: the little green furry happiness booster

The study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, indicates that adding kiwis to your diet can significantly improve your mood in as little as four days. Participants in the study experienced noticeable mood improvements within a week of incorporating kiwis into their diet. This is attributed to the creation of neurotransmitters like serotonin, known as the ‘happiness hormone.’

Co-author Professor Tamlin Conner, of the Department of Psychology, said: “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.”

Additional health benefits of kiwis

Beyond its mood-boosting properties, kiwis are ideal for weight loss, regulating blood sugar levels, preventing diabetes, and combating insulin resistance. They also help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood by reducing fat absorption at the intestinal level.

Kiwis are rich in vitamins C, E, and K, folates, carotenoids, potassium, and polyphenols, as well as having heaps of fiber and antioxidants. They help support brain functions, reduce cellular damage, and prevent premature aging. The probiotic fiber in kiwis aids communication between the brain and the gut, which also helps both physical and emotional well-being.

See also: Add pomegranates to your summer diet

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Fruit is the way forward for health

Research consistently shows that regular fruit consumption enhances both physical and psychological well-being. People who eat fruit regularly are generally more optimistic, experience less anxiety, and enjoy a higher quality of life. US health authorities recommend eating a total of 9 cups of fruit and vegetables a day. Doing so reduces the risk of a number of non-communicable diseases and ensures adequate fiber and nutrient intake. Variety is also crucial; incorporating different types of fruits in your diet maximizes the health benefits. Some experts recommend eating 30 different plants a week - it sounds hard, but it’s actually easier than you might think!

In conclusion, while chocolate will always have a special place in our hearts, kiwi offers a compelling, healthier alternative to boost your mood and improve your overall well-being. So next time you’re craving a sweet treat, consider reaching for a kiwi instead.