Kiwi is not only rich in vitamin C but also contains potassium, fiber and plant compounds that are beneficial for the heart.
Research shows that people who ate 3 kiwis a day for 8 weeks had an average reduction in cardiopulmonary blood pressure of 3.6 mmHg compared to the group who ate apples with the same calorie content. The main reason is that kiwi contains lutein, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect blood vessel walls from damage and improve blood circulation.
In addition, according to experts, a diet rich in potassium helps balance the amount of sodium in the body, thereby reducing pressure on blood vessel walls.
An average kiwi contains about 215 mg of potassium, equivalent to the amount in 1/2 banana, helping to effectively control blood pressure when consumed regularly.
To lower blood pressure, nutritionists recommend eating kiwi:
Eat fresh kiwi, including the skin if washed thoroughly, because the skin contains a lot of fiber and flavonoids.
Drink kiwi in the morning or mid-afternoon, when the body absorbs antioxidants best.
Combining kiwi with meals low in salt and lots of green vegetables helps increase the effectiveness of comprehensive blood pressure control.
However, people with stomach problems should avoid eating kiwi on an empty stomach because it is mildly acidic. At the same time, people taking drugs to treat blood pressure should consult a doctor before increasing their daily kiwi intake.