The fruit you’re referring to is most likely kiwifruit (kiwi). 🥝
Research has found that eating 2–3 kiwifruits daily may help improve certain cardiovascular health markers, including blood triglycerides and platelet activity.
1. The research behind kiwi’s heart-health benefits
A study published in 2004, titled Effects of Kiwi Fruit Consumption on Platelet Aggregation and Plasma Lipids in Healthy Human Volunteers, investigated the effects of regular kiwi consumption.
Study details:
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Participants consumed 2–3 kiwifruits daily.
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Duration: 28 days.
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Study design: Randomized crossover trial.
15%
Reduction in blood triglycerides
18%
Reduction in platelet aggregation response
Compared with the control condition. Cholesterol levels did not significantly change.
Source:
2. Why kiwi may support heart health
Kiwi contains several potentially beneficial nutrients:
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Vitamin C: Helps protect cells against oxidative damage.
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Polyphenols: Plant compounds with antioxidant properties.
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Dietary fibre: Supports healthy cholesterol metabolism.
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Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure.
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Vitamin E: Contributes to antioxidant protection.
3. Potential health benefits
Regular kiwi consumption may contribute to:
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Better triglyceride levels.
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Healthier platelet function.
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Improved overall dietary antioxidant intake.
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Better digestive health through dietary fibre.
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Support for cardiovascular health as part of a balanced diet.
4. How much kiwi should you eat?
A practical serving is 1–2 medium kiwifruits daily.
The study specifically tested 2–3 kiwifruits per day for four weeks.
5. An important scientific clarification
The 15% triglyceride reduction is supported by the study. However, it did not establish that kiwi reduces fat oxidation.
Also, this was a relatively small, short-term study. Its findings do not prove that eating kiwi prevents heart attacks or cardiovascular disease.
Bottom line: Kiwi is a nutrient-rich fruit with promising preliminary evidence for supporting heart health, particularly through its observed effects on triglycerides and platelet aggregation.