Kiwano is a fruit which was got by crossing a cucumber and a melon. This is exotic fruit which has much goodness that you can benefit from. It is grown primarily in the southern parts of Africa. In the past century, this fruit has been introduced to other parts of the world, such as New Zealand and Australia. It has similar consistency and appearance to kiwi and this is from where it gets the name. Kiwano is not biologically linked to kiwi and in nutritive and evolutionary terms is closer to zucchini and cucumber. The scientific name of kiwano is Cucumis metuliferus. It is also known by other names, such as blowfish fruit, African cucumber and horned melon. Also it has many health benefits. Kiwano is sensitive to room temperature. You should store it at about 15 degrees to ensure yourself that the kiwano will not get spoilt too soon. It is known that the bitter forms of kiwano, before they are ripe, can have dangerous levels of chemicals which are not present when the fruit is ready to eat. This toxicity can cause fevers, headaches and stomach issues but it is not known that these conditions can be life – threatening. Kiwano is not commonly considered as an allergenic food. Here are some health benefits of kiwano:
Ability to increase the bone strength
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This fruit has high amounts of minerals, particularly calcium. This mineral can boost the bone strength and it can prevent the onset of osteoporosis. It has zinc which is playing an important role for the bone integrity, growth and development but the calcium is the best mineral for the health of our bones.
Aids in digestion
Kiwano is rich in fiber which is making it an ideal digestive aid. The dietary fiber can help to stimulate the peristaltic motion and this will clear out the gastrointestinal tract which can keep your bowel movements regular and it will prevent constipation, bloating, cramping and serious conditions, such as colon cancer or gastric ulcers. The dietary fiber is very important element for the heart health. Also it can help to regulate the levels of cholesterol in the body. It can help to regulate the insulin receptors and it can prevent or manage diabetes.
Relieves stress and anxiety
There are some studies which were done on the organic compounds in kiwano and in them was said that it can help to regulate hormones, especially adrenaline and other stress hormones. You should eat kiwano if you feel anxious or suffer from chronic stress because this can quickly ease your mind and your body will be at calming and relaxed state.
Slows aging
Kiwano is rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, abundant organic compounds and natural antioxidants which can help you to stay young in both ways – inside and outside. Kiwano will protect the integrity of the skin and it will reduce age spots and wrinkles and it will lessen the appearance of blemishes and scars. These are very important nutrients which can keep your body younger by preventing the onset of chronic diseases through their antioxidant activity.
Boosts metabolism
Many people do not appreciate zinc but this mineral is playing an important role in the metabolism and producing protein which is very important for the wound healing and repair of cells, blood vessels, tissues and organs. This fruit is rich in Vitamin C which is a perfect complement to the zinc found in kiwano because the ascorbic acid is the key component of collagen which is very important material in the repair and growth.
Ability to improve the cognitive function
There are different nutrients in the kiwano which can positively affect the brain but the Vitamin E can slow the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Kiwano has high levels of tocopherol variations which are making it a favorite fruit for all people who want to keep their minds fresh.
Eye care
Kiwano has high amounts of Vitamin A which is very important booster for the vision health. The Vitamin A is a type of carotenoid which is acting as antioxidant for the eye, eliminating the free radicals that could lead to macular degeneration and at the same time it will slow down or prevent the development of cataracts.
