Kiwi: Calories, Nutrition and Health Benefits
Vitamin C powerhouse packed with digestive enzymes, antioxidants, and fiber in a low-calorie package perfect for every health goal.
Quick Nutrition Facts
Per 1 Medium Kiwi (69g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 42 kcal |
| Protein | 0.8g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 2.1g |
| Sugars | 6.2g |
| Fat | 0.4g |
| Vitamin C | 64mg |
| Vitamin K | 28mcg |
| Folate | 17mcg |
| Potassium | 215mg |
Macronutrient Breakdown
NUTRITIONIST INSIGHT
One medium kiwi delivers 71% of your daily vitamin C needs - more per gram than an orange. The unique enzyme actinidin aids protein digestion and reduces bloating after meals.
Myth Busters
MYTH #1: Kiwi Skin is Toxic and Shouldn't Be Eaten
TRUTH: Kiwi skin is completely safe and nutritious. Eating the fuzzy skin doubles your fiber intake and increases antioxidants by 50%. Just wash thoroughly. Gold kiwis have smoother, more palatable skin.
MYTH #2: Kiwi Has Too Much Sugar for Weight Loss
TRUTH: A medium kiwi has only 6g of natural sugars and 42 calories total. The 2g fiber slows sugar absorption and promotes fullness. Kiwi's low energy density makes it ideal for weight loss - you get volume and nutrition without excess calories.
MYTH #3: You Need to Refrigerate Kiwis Immediately
TRUTH: Store unripe kiwis at room temperature to ripen naturally over 3-5 days. Only refrigerate ripe kiwis to extend shelf life by 1-2 weeks. Room temperature ripening develops better flavor and texture.
MYTH #4: Green and Gold Kiwis Are Nutritionally Identical
TRUTH: Gold kiwis contain more vitamin C (161mg vs 93mg per 100g) but less fiber. Green kiwis have more actinidin enzyme for digestion. Both are nutritious; choose based on taste preference and digestive needs.
MYTH #5: Kiwis Cause Allergic Reactions in Most People
TRUTH: While kiwi allergies exist, they affect only 2-3% of the population. Most people can safely enjoy kiwis. Symptoms include itching, tongue swelling, or tingling. Try a small amount first if concerned.
MYTH #6: Frozen Kiwi Loses All Its Nutrients
TRUTH: Freezing preserves most nutrients, especially vitamin C when frozen quickly. Some texture changes occur, but nutritional value remains high. Frozen kiwi works great for smoothies while retaining 85-90% of fresh kiwi's nutrients.
NutriScore by Health Goals
| Health Goal | NutriScore | Why This Score? |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Loss |  | Only 42 calories, 2g fiber promotes fullness, low energy density, actinidin aids digestion. Perfect daily snack. |
| Muscle Gain |  | Low protein (0.8g) but excellent post-workout vitamin C for collagen synthesis and recovery. Combine with protein sources. |
| Diabetes Management | | Low GI (52), high fiber regulates blood sugar, minimal glucose spike. Safe 1 kiwi per serving. |
| PCOS Management | | Low calories, anti-inflammatory antioxidants, fiber helps insulin sensitivity. Excellent daily fruit choice. |
| Pregnancy Nutrition | | Rich in folate (17mcg), vitamin C boosts iron absorption, fiber prevents constipation common during pregnancy. |
| Viral/Flu Recovery | | 71% daily vitamin C strengthens immunity, easy to digest, antioxidants fight oxidative stress, gentle on upset stomach. |
PERSONALIZED NUTRITION
Track your meals with NutriScan for personalized NutriScores based on your specific health goals!
Blood Sugar Response to Kiwi
Understanding how kiwi affects your blood glucose helps optimize timing and combinations for stable energy.
Typical Glucose Response Curve
*This chart shows typical blood glucose response for general healthy individuals. Individual responses may vary. Not medical advice.*
How to Maintain Stable Blood Sugar
Pairing kiwi with protein or healthy fat provides sustained energy and prevents glucose spikes:
- 🥜 Handful of almonds or walnuts - Healthy fats and protein
- 🧀 Cottage cheese or Greek yogurt - High protein, probiotic benefits
- 🥜 Peanut butter (1 tbsp) - Protein and healthy fats
- 🥚 Hard-boiled egg - Complete protein source
This combination extends satiety, balances blood sugar, and maximizes nutrient absorption.
Cultural Significance
Kiwifruit originated in China, known as "yang tao" (sunny peach), cultivated for over 700 years.
In New Zealand:
- Renamed "kiwifruit" in 1959 after the kiwi bird, national symbol
- Transformed into major export crop in the 1970s
- New Zealand produces 30% of world's kiwis
- Developed gold kiwi variety (Zespri SunGold) in 1990s
Global Impact:
- China grows 50% of world production (2.2 million tons)
- Italy, New Zealand, Iran are major producers
- 70+ varieties cultivated worldwide
- Hardy kiwi (kiwi berry) gaining popularity - smooth skin, grape-sized
Compare & Substitute
Kiwi vs Similar Fruits (Per 100g)
| Nutrient | 🥝 Kiwi | 🍊 Orange | 🍓 Strawberry | 🥭 Mango |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 61 kcal | 47 kcal | 32 kcal | 60 kcal |
| Carbs | 15g | 12g | 8g | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g | 2.4g | 2g | 1.6g |
| Protein | 1.1g | 0.9g | 0.7g | 0.8g |
| Fat | 0.5g | 0.1g | 0.3g | 0.4g |
| Vitamin C | 93mg | 53mg | 59mg | 37mg |
| Vitamin K | 40mcg | 0mcg | 2.2mcg | 4.2mcg |
| Folate | 25mcg | 30mcg | 24mcg | 43mcg |
| Best For | Immune boost, digestion, fiber | Vitamin C, hydration | Weight loss, antioxidant | Energy, vitamin A, sweetness |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are kiwis good for weight loss?
Yes, kiwis are excellent for weight loss. A medium kiwi has only 42 calories but provides 2g of fiber that promotes fullness. The high water content and low energy density mean you get satisfying volume without excess calories.
Best practices: Eat 1-2 kiwis daily as snacks, keep skin on for double the fiber, pair with protein for sustained energy, use in smoothies for natural sweetness without added sugar.
Can diabetics eat kiwi?
Diabetics can safely eat kiwi. With a glycemic index of 52 (low-to-medium), kiwi causes a gradual blood sugar rise. The 3g fiber per 100g helps regulate glucose absorption.
Tips for diabetics:
- Eat 1 whole medium kiwi per serving (10g carbs)
- Consume with meals or paired with protein
- Monitor blood sugar 2 hours after eating
- Choose slightly firm kiwis over very ripe ones
The fiber and antioxidants support overall metabolic health. Always consult your healthcare provider.
How much vitamin C is in a kiwi?
A medium kiwi contains 64mg of vitamin C, which is 71% of the recommended daily value. Per gram, kiwi contains more vitamin C than oranges, making it one of the richest natural sources.
Comparison: 100g kiwi has 93mg vitamin C vs 53mg in oranges. One kiwi provides more vitamin C than most people need daily for immune function, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant protection.
What are the main health benefits of kiwi?
Key Benefits:
- Immune Support: 71% daily vitamin C strengthens immune system
- Digestive Health: Actinidin enzyme aids protein digestion and reduces bloating
- Heart Health: Potassium, fiber, and antioxidants support cardiovascular function
- Better Sleep: Contains serotonin that may improve sleep quality
- Skin Health: Vitamin C and E promote collagen production
- Eye Health: Lutein and zeaxanthin protect against age-related vision loss
Should I eat kiwi with or without the skin?
Eating with skin is more nutritious - the fuzzy brown skin doubles your fiber intake and increases antioxidant content by 50%. The skin is completely edible and safe.
How to eat with skin:
- Wash thoroughly under running water
- Rub gently to reduce fuzziness
- Bite into like an apple
Alternatives: Gold kiwis (Zespri) have smooth, less fuzzy skin. If texture bothers you, peel regular green kiwis, but you'll miss the extra nutrients.
When is the best time to eat kiwi?
Depends on your goal:
- Weight Loss: Morning with breakfast or as mid-morning snack (fiber promotes fullness)
- Digestion: After heavy meals (actinidin aids protein digestion)
- Immunity: Anytime (vitamin C absorption is consistent throughout day)
- Better Sleep: 1-2 kiwis 1 hour before bed (serotonin content may improve sleep)
- Exercise: Pre-workout (30-60 min before) for quick natural energy
How do I know if a kiwi is ripe?
Ripe kiwi indicators:
- Yields to gentle thumb pressure (like a ripe avocado)
- Sweet fragrance near stem end
- Skin may have slight give but not mushy
Ripening tips: Store unripe kiwis at room temperature for 3-5 days. Speed ripening by placing in paper bag with apple or banana (ethylene gas). Refrigerate only when ripe to extend life 1-2 weeks.
Too ripe signs: Very soft, leaking juice, fermented smell, shriveled skin. These are overripe; use immediately in smoothies or discard.
Can kiwi cause allergic reactions?
Kiwi allergies affect 2-3% of the population. Symptoms include mouth itching, tongue tingling, lip swelling, or in rare cases, anaphylaxis.
Risk factors:
- Latex allergy (cross-reactivity)
- Birch pollen allergy
- Other fruit allergies (avocado, banana)
First time trying kiwi? Start with a small amount. If you experience itching or swelling, discontinue and consult a healthcare provider. Most people can safely enjoy kiwis without issues.
