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A recent study conducted by the University of Otago highlights the swift and positive effects of kiwifruit consumption on mood and vitality. Published in The British Journal of Nutrition, the research sheds light on how the furry fruit can significantly enhance mental well-being in as little as four days. The study emphasizes the accessibility of this dietary intervention, providing individuals with an easy and tangible way to support their mental health.
Co-author Professor Tamlin Conner, from the Department of Psychology, underscores the importance of small dietary changes, such as incorporating kiwifruit, in positively impacting daily mood and well-being. The study focuses on the link between vitamin C intake and mood improvement, emphasizing the association of vitamin C deficiency with higher depression and cognitive impairment.
The 8-week dietary intervention involved 155 adults with low vitamin C levels. Participants were assigned daily doses of either a vitamin C supplement, placebo, or two kiwifruits. Smartphone surveys were used to collect data on vitality, mood, flourishing, sleep quality, sleep quantity, and physical activity.
The findings revealed that kiwifruit supplementation led to improved vitality and mood within four days, reaching peak benefits around days 14-16. Flourishing, a measure of overall well-being, showed improvement from day 14. In contrast, vitamin C supplements marginally improved mood until day 12. Lead author Dr. Ben Fletcher, conducting the research as part of his PhD at Otago, emphasized the study’s contribution to understanding the nuanced timing of these mood-enhancing effects.
Dr. Fletcher highlights the potential synergistic effects of consuming whole foods like kiwifruit, advocating for a holistic approach to nutrition and well-being. While vitamin C tablets showed some improvements, the study underscores the broader benefits of incorporating nutrient-rich foods into one’s diet.
Professor Conner emphasizes the study’s novel methodology in nutritional research, utilizing intensive smartphone surveys for a real-time understanding of day-to-day changes in mood-related outcomes. The findings not only offer individuals a simple and effective way to enhance their mental well-being but also pave the way for future research exploring the impact of whole foods on mood and vitality.
