The humble kiwi, a staple in many fruit bowls and smoothies, has recently become the subject of a surprising health debate: should you eat it with the skin on? While many people instinctively peel off the fuzzy outer layer, experts are now suggesting that eating the skin can actually be a nutritional powerhouse.
This revelation sparked a wave of online discussions after a viral TikTok video featuring actress Jenna Ortega showed her munching on a kiwi like an apple, skin and all. The video, captioned “Today I realized you can eat kiwi with the skin on,” sparked a flurry of reactions, including from gastroenterologist Dr. Joseph Salhab, known online as “Stomach Doc.”
Dr. Salhab shared the video, highlighting the significant health benefits of eating the kiwi skin. “If you eat a kiwi with the skin on, you actually get 50 percent more fiber and more vitamins and nutrients,” he explained. “But you’ll want to wash it really well and get some of those little hairs off,” he added, emphasizing the importance of proper hygiene.
So, what exactly are these hidden benefits of the kiwi skin? It’s packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, all of which are crucial for maintaining a healthy body. Fiber helps regulate digestion, keeps you feeling full, and may even help lower cholesterol levels. Antioxidants fight free radicals, protecting your cells from damage and potentially slowing the aging process. Vitamin C, of course, is essential for a strong immune system and healthy skin.
While the idea of eating the kiwi whole may seem unappealing to some, the potential health benefits are undeniable. The skin contributes significantly to the overall nutritional profile of the fruit, making it a more complete source of essential nutrients.
However, the texture of the kiwi skin can be a deterrent for many. Some find the fuzziness off-putting, while others struggle with its slightly tough texture. To address this, Dr. Salhab recommends choosing Sungold kiwis, which have a smoother surface and may be easier to eat whole.
Even those who don’t mind the texture might find the kiwi skin a bit tough to chew. Dr. Salhab suggests slicing the kiwi into smaller, circular pieces to make it more manageable.
Despite the initial hesitation, some brave souls have embraced the whole-kiwi trend and are finding it a surprisingly pleasant experience. “Tastes so much better with the skin,” one enthusiast remarked, while another added, “I tried it, it didn’t taste of much, but it was hard to chew. Might have to cut into smaller pieces.”
In addition to its nutritional benefits, kiwi skin can promote healthy bacterial growth in the gut, further enhancing digestion and preventing constipation. This makes it a double win for those looking to improve their overall gut health and digestive well-being.
So, are you ready to take the plunge and embrace the whole-kiwi trend? The next time you reach for a kiwi, consider the hidden benefits of the skin and give it a try. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it and the positive impact it can have on your health.