Welcome to the snack that is as charming as it is chewable. These little green dehydrated slices of kiwi pack a somewhat sour and flavorful punch. Think of dehydrated kiwi like the healthier, tropical, sweet, and tangy version of those unhealthy sour candies with artificial dyes and preservatives. Not only is this snack conveniently portable, but it is also loaded with beneficial nutrients, which we’ll discuss in this description. If you love fresh kiwi, then you will love this snack, which is great for hikes or any sort of travel. They’re perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet but want to avoid the guilt of indulging in candy or processed snacks.

Beyond the delightful taste, provide a lot of vitamin C, which helps to give your immune system a boost to fend off foreign invaders in the body. Kiwis also offer a healthy dose of dietary fiber, which works to aid digestion and promote feelings of fullness, helping to curb those unhealthy snack cravings. Rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols, kiwis work to combat oxidative stress and may even contribute to healthier aging, specifically on a cellular level. Plus, kiwis contain potassium, which is not only beneficial for maintaining proper muscle function, but also for keeping your blood pressure in check.

Add these dehydrated kiwis to your diet for the healthy perks and to elevate your snack game with a touch of tropical flair. Believe it or not, these dehydrated kiwis are versatile enough to toss into oatmeal, trail mixes, or yogurt. You can also enjoy them as is for a quick, nutritious pick-me-up. The concentrated nutrients make every bite a mini health boost, so next time you want to reach for a snack, consider keeping these at the ready. There’s no reason for snacking to be an unhealthy practice!

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Attention to anyone who deals with regular constipation: There is yet another reason to head to the produce section of the grocery store. A new study from the American Journal of Gastroenterology (AJG) found that eating two kiwi fruits per day increased the frequency of complete spontaneous bowel movements. The fruit was also able to reduce gastrointestinal pain for people with functional constipation and constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C).

How Do Kiwis Help Relieve Constipation?

The study aimed to compare the benefits of consuming six grams of dietary fiber through the consumption of two skinless kiwi fruits and taking a 7.5-gram dose of psyllium. If you are unaware, psyllium is a common supplement used to relieve constipation. The participants in the study either had functional constipation, IBS-C, healthy controls, or a combination of these. Each participant took one of the two interventions for four weeks. After the first four weeks with one intervention, there was a four-week break, followed by another intervention for another four weeks. 

According to study authors, consuming two green kiwi fruits per day resulted in an increase of at least 1.5 completely spontaneous bowel movements in people with constipation. Only the participants with IBS-C experienced an increase of 1.25 completely spontaneous bowel movements after taking psyllium. That said, those same participants saw significant improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms when taking psyllium. Researchers, however, did observe improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms for all groups consuming kiwi fruits.

Were There Limitations In The Study?

Researchers noted that study limitations included participants’ adherence to the intervention, the food they ate, self-reporting, and details of bowel movements. The study was also small, only including 184 people. The study still builds on previous research that indicated the kiwi’s ability to benefit those with constipation. For example, a 2022 review found that green and gold kiwis, in addition to kiwi supplements, positively affected upper gastrointestinal health. 

Prior research from a 2018 review attributed kiwi fruit’s gut health benefits to the naturally-occurring dietary fiber and actinidin, a proteolytic enzyme. This enzyme works to ease protein digestion in the small intestine and stomach. Researchers from the recent AJG study acknowledged these previous reviews and studies, and claimed that they were building upon this existing research. With the previous clinical trials involving kiwi fruit and the recent study, it is safe to say that consuming two green kiwi fruits daily is safe and potentially effective treatment for constipation in those with gastrointestinal disorders. 

What Should You Know About Fiber And Constipation?

There is an increasing amount of evidence detailing various methods, whether natural or not, to help improve symptoms of constipation. A 2017 review found that IBS can cause serious abdominal discomfort, constipation, and bloating. A 2021 review noted that IBS affects about 7-16% of the U.S. population, and it is most common in women and younger people. Unlike IBS, functional constipation does not always cause abdominal pain; however, it does cause infrequent bowel movements. 

Fiber is a key player when it comes to the management of IBS and functional constipation. It may also help lower a person’s cholesterol and reduce the risk of other diseases, including colon cancer and diabetes. But how much fiber do you need in order to establish regular bowel movements? 

The National Academies recommends that men consume at least 38 grams of fiber per day, while women should consume 25 to 28 grams per day. The sad reality is that the average American adult only consumes about 16 grams of fiber per day. One could argue, then, that the lack of fiber consumption in this country contributes to the constipation problem. You also have to take into account the different foods, such as processed foods, saturated fats, deli meats, and more, that cause constipation. 

If you want to include more fiber in your diet, consider focusing on nuts, beans, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. These foods will not only help you meet your daily fiber requirements, but also provide you with a wide variety of nutrients that promote overall health. Eat a kiwi fruit, nay, eat two kiwi fruits per day to increase your fiber intake and regulate bowel movements!

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It may come as a shock to you, but different fruits contain protein. They are great sources of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, natural sugars, a bit of fat, and even some protein. An apple, for example, does not offer the same amount of protein as a piece of salmon, but it comes with a diverse mix of micro and macronutrients. 

Protein is having a moment, to say the least. This is partially due to the popularity of the carnivore, Paleo, keto, and other high-protein diets. We aren’t here to talk about those diets, though, as many of them discourage the consumption of fruit. That’s because fruits contain carbs and less sugar than animal-based foods. An egg, for example, has about six grams of protein, whereas fruit may only offer a couple grams per cup. 

If you are trying to up your protein intake and diversify your fruit consumption, the fruits in this article may come to your aid. Whole fruits offer key nutrients that support other aspects of total bodily health, so don’t neglect them. They are relatively low in calories and high in water and fiber, two things that benefit gastrointestinal health. So if you are looking to snack healthily and get a little protein in the process, consider the fruits listed below.

Passion Fruit

Passion fruit is a lovely tropical fruit that grows on a vine. The fiber content in one cup of passion fruit is very high, exhibiting a whopping 24.5 grams, which is nearly 88% of the daily value (DV). Fiber works to regulate digestion and promote healthy cholesterol levels. The same cup of passion fruit provides five grams of protein.

Blackberries

One of the great things about blackberries is that they are very high in antioxidant compounds. They also happen to be the berry with the highest amount of protein, exhibiting about two grams per cup. Blackberries are low in calories, rich in fiber, and high in anthocyanin, a phytonutrient that has demonstrated abilities to influence immune function and improve gut microbiome. 

Avocado

Although avocado seems like a vegetable, it is actually a fruit of the savory variety. Avocados offer three grams of protein per cup, in addition to lots of healthy fats that help you feel full. You can enjoy avocado with a spoon and some sea salt, transform it into guacamole, or add it on toast. Just keep in mind that avocados have more calories than other fruits, with one cup of avocado containing 234 calories. 

Kiwi

Didn’t think a kiwi would have protein did you? Well, one cup of kiwi has nearly two grams of protein, which is not bad! Kiwi is also naturally rich in vitamin C, offering about 167 milligrams per cup. That amount is nearly double the DV of vitamin C! Several studies also found that kiwis work to improve digestion and promote bowel regularity, which researchers attribute to their fiber content. 

Guava

Yet another vitamin C superstar, guava is a tropical fruit that offers a lot of protein, especially for its size. One cup of guava has a little over four grams of protein and nine grams of fiber, which is about one-third of the DV. Research continues to find that increasing your fiber intake can reduce blood pressure and promote healthy cholesterol levels, especially in people with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome. 

Apricot

Unlike other fruits, apricots are not typically available year-round, but you can find them in dried form at all times. They typically show up in grocery stores or at farmer’s markets in late spring and summer. Each half-cup of dried apricot halves contains a little over two grams of protein. Dried apricots do not have water, so they are more calorically dense than fresh versions. That same half-cup, then, has about 157 calories, so just keep that in mind when snacking on dried apricots. 

Jackfruit

We are rounding out this article with the largest fruit on the list, the mighty jackfruit. Exhibiting a stringy texture, jackfruit is a common meat substitute for plant-based eaters. If you are swapping jackfruit for chicken, though, keep in mind that one cup of jackfruit offers three grams of protein compared to the 35 grams you’d get from chicken. Because it is not very sweet, it takes on whichever seasonings or flavors you cook with it, but you can enjoy it raw if you like.

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Are ready for a salsa that is so good that it’ll carry you all the way from spring through summer? Well, get your palate ready because you just clicked on that recipe! So zingy, zangy, zesty, and incredibly refreshing, this kiwi salsa will jazz up any night of the week. Say goodbye to any sluggishness that stems from colder weather when you enjoy this salsa bite after bite. It’s like sunshine for your taste buds!

You might be thinking, “How can I enjoy this salsa without chips if I am cleansing?” That’s a valid question, considering that you cannot have packaged chips during the cleansing process. You can, however, make your own dehydrated chips from root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, zucchini, parsnip, and more. Use those vegetable chips as your dipping vessels to enjoy this addicting salsa. Alternatively, you can spoon this salsa into small lettuce cups and enjoy it that way.

For this salsa, choose kiwis that are ripe, or else your salsa will have a sour flavor profile. If green kiwis are too tart for your palate, consider using golden kiwis, as they have a sweeter flavor. Unlike other salsas that you are familiar with, this one contains ginger, which pairs beautifully with kiwi. Instead of using red onion, we opted for shallots because they exhibit a sweet mildness that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. The savoriness of cilantro plays well off the slightly tart kiwi and, well, you can’t have a salsa without fresh lime juice. That’s the ingredient that ties everything together!

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Pooping is something everyone does on a daily basis, ideally once or twice per day, but nobody wants to talk about it. We love to talk about it! If you aren’t eliminating on a regular basis, then something is going on, be it poor eating habits, insufficient exercise, stress, or a digestive problem. Whatever the case may be, it can be quite frustrating (and painful) if you cannot poop.

According to available data, constipation affects 18% of adults in the United States. It is a common issue that people of all ages can experience and it has various causes. Lack of fiber, delaying bowel movements, traveling, certain medications, and hormonal changes can all cause constipation. It can also be a symptom of other health conditions and some common symptoms include:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week
• Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
• Straining during bowel movements
• Bloating or abdominal pain
• Feeling like you still need to eliminate after using the toilet

What you eat can have a big impact on digestive function. Certain foods can also help you improve symptoms of constipation. Foods that are naturally rich in fiber, fluids, and natural laxatives can make stool easier to eliminate. Enjoy the following foods to help stimulate bowel movements. 

Mangos

The mango is a juicy, tropical fruit that is a staple in many smoothie, dessert, and salad recipes. You can also cube it up to use it as a topping for acai bowls or chia pudding recipes. According to several studies, mangos can aid with constipation relief. Mangos are naturally rich in fiber, which adds bulk to stool, allowing it to move more easily through the digestive system. One study found that participants who ate 300 grams of mango (about one to two mangos) per day over four weeks saw an improvement in constipation. 

Kiwi

As a vitamin C superstar, kiwi is an excellent fruit to help boost immune function. It may also be an effective constipation remedy, as it is naturally rich in soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber helps optimize gut microbiome, while insoluble fiber helps maintain regular bowel movements, but you can click here to learn more about the difference between them. Several studies indicate that kiwis work to improve complete spontaneous bowel movements (CSBMs), bowel habits, and transit time. Researchers attribute the constipation relieving abilities to the fiber content in kiwis. Another study found that eating two kiwis per day can reduce abdominal discomfort and improve constipation. 

Figs

These soft, sweet, fruits are not for everyone, but they do help relieve symptoms of constipation. They are less popular than apples and prunes for improving bowel movements, but studies show that fig paste can improve transit time and stool consistency. One study monitored people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) who ate four dried figs per day reported a decrease in symptoms of constipation, including hard stools, compared to those who ate a placebo. 

Apples

According to surveys, apples are the most consumed fruit in the United States. They are naturally rich in pectin, a type of soluble fiber that works to improve the transit time of food in the digestive system. Pectin helps to absorb water in the digestive tract, which creates larger, softer stools that are easier to eliminate. Researchers note that supplementing with pectin can increase colon transit time and decrease constipation symptoms. 

Prunes

Potentially one of the most effective constipation remedies, prunes are rich in fiber and sorbitol, making them a natural laxative that can stimulate bowel movements. Studies indicate that prunes significantly improve stool consistency and increase the number of CSBMs when compared to psyllium, another form of soluble fiber that is occasionally used as a laxative. 

Psyllium

To round out the list of foods that help you poop, we have psyllium. Psyllium can come in husk or powder form, and supplement manufacturers use it in laxatives because it increases the bulk of stool. It does this by drawing in water to ease the passage of stool. According to several studies, psyllium can reduce straining, improve stool frequency and consistency, and reduce stomach pain. Although psyllium isn’t as effective as prunes, it is a natural laxative to experiment with if you have a prune allergy. 

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Today, we’re blending up a refreshing smoothie featuring sweet golden kiwis and crisp apples. This vibrant drink is packed with vitamins and a delicious burst of flavor, making it the perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.

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It’s true that summer is almost over, but you still have time to take your taste buds on a vacation to a fruity paradise. Enjoy this refreshing and oh-so-colorful summer fruit salad, which features some of summer’s finest fruits: peaches, kiwis, and mixed berries. This isn’t your average fruit salad; rather, it’s a fruit fiesta that will delight your palate and make your body happy with all the different antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. You know the flavor is there, but let’s talk about the benefits of these wonderful, seasonal fruits.

Berries Galore: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries contain lots of antioxidants, including vitamin C, which work to fight free radicals in the body. Berries are low-sugar fruits, so they may help keep your blood sugar in check. Plus, they may improve aspects of brain and heart health.

Kiwi Craze: These little tart, green gems of goodness burst with vitamin C. It may shock you to learn that kiwis contain more vitamin C than oranges, with one kiwi containing about 100% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C. They also contain other beneficial compounds, including beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein, vitamin K, folate, magnesium, copper, and phosphorus.

Peachy Keen: Get those fresh, seasonal peaches before they’re gone! Peaches are naturally rich in vitamins A and C, both of which encourage healthier skin and immune function. Eat your way to more radiant, beautiful skin while improving digestion with a healthy dose of fiber. Although you can blend them into smoothies or add them to desserts, peaches are best enjoyed fresh!

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The great thing about a food processor or high-speed blender is that you can transform two frozen ingredients into a delicious sorbet. Frozen bananas are no match for the power of these appliances! The best part about making a sorbet solely from fruit is that it doesn’t contain any added sugars, syrups, flavors, or dairy products.

Some sorbets (not all) incorporate dairy to yield a creamy consistency. By adding frozen banana, you don’t have to worry about the creaminess factor. Frozen banana helps create a smooth, creamy consistency, while also providing enough sweetness. If you find that the kiwi flavor is a bit to tart or intense, you can blend in a touch of raw agave nectar or maple syrup to sweeten the sorbet. If you do not enjoy the tartness of kiwis, consider golden kiwis instead. Will golden kiwis change the color of the sorbet? Yes, absolutely, but they have a sweeter flavor than green varieties.

It’s pretty incredible that you can enjoy a dessert just by blending together two ingredients. This banana kiwi sorbet is a much healthier alternative to store bought pints, quarts, or gallons. You don’t even want to look at how many grams of sugar per serving these store bought varieties have! Instead, make this healthy, raw vegan dessert this summer and enjoy it during warmer weather.

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Mangos, kiwis, blueberries, strawberries. A classic fruit salad. Add some lime juice and a bit of Tajin? Now we are talking!

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A nutritional survey found that about 95% Americans do not meet their recommended daily intake (RDI) of fiber. The RDI of fiber ranges from 21-38 grams, depending on your age and gender. Most people have a lot of room for improvement on this nutrient, which plays an essential role in regulating bowel movements, nurturing the gut, and filling you up. In this article, we detail easy ways to add more fiber to your diet. 

Try Chickpea Pasta

It’s hard not to love pasta, especially because you can usually throw a recipe together in 30 minutes or less. The unfortunate reality is that most people use jarred sauce (full of sodium) and boxed pasta enriched with poor quality ingredients. Instead of feeling tired and bloated, consider switching to chickpea pasta to increase your fiber intake. Two ounces of chickpea pasta (about one cup of noodles) offers eight grams of fiber, which is a major increase from two grams of fiber from regular pasta. Chickpea pasta also has twice the protein content as regular pasta and it’s gluten-free!

Add Lentils To Grain Bowls

You can easily customize grain bowls, but a lot of people like to use rice as the base. Rice, even brown rice, is not the best source of fiber. One cup of brown rice offers 1.6 grams of fiber, while a mere half-cup of lentils offers eight grams of fiber. If you enjoy rice, consider a lentil-rice mixture to enhance the fiber content of your grain bowl. Plus, a half-cup of lentils offers nine grams of protein, and a good portion of the fiber in lentils comes from prebiotics, which feed the probiotics in your gut. 

Blend Kiwis Into Your Smoothies

Kiwis have an incredible vitamin C content and they are bursting with antioxidants. They also contain fiber, with two kiwis offering four to five grams, depending on the size. Half of that fiber content, however, is concentrated in the skin. Most people do not enjoy snacking on fuzzy kiwi skin, though. In order to reap all the fiber benefits of kiwis, toss a couple whole kiwis into your smoothie. You won’t even taste the skin!

Eat Chia Pudding With Berries

Most dietitians agree that breakfast is the best meal of the day to load up on fiber-rich foods. In doing so, you will be full and energized until lunch, avoiding unnecessary snacking. Both chia seeds and berries contain a lot of fiber, despite their small size. A half-cup of raspberries and one tablespoon of chia seeds provide four grams of fiber, each. We have many chia pudding recipes available in our recipe section (click here) if you need some inspiration. 

Snack On Nuts And Figs

Each fig, depending on the size, generally provides one gram of fiber, and one serving of figs is roughly between three to five fruits. Pair those figs with a quarter-cup of almonds for four more grams of fiber and six grams of protein. That makes almonds and figs an ideal snack to give you a natural pick-me-up and fill you up between meals. 

Add Pears To Your Salads

Pears are sneaky fiber superstars, with one medium pear offering five to six grams of fiber. Can you enjoy pears as healthy snacks from time to time? Sure, but adding them to salads can give you a better fiber bang for your buck. Pair your pears with kale (one gram of fiber per cup) and other fiber-rich ingredients for a filling, lunchtime salad!

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