This Fruit Can Significantly Improve Your Mental Health in Just 4 Days

A recent study, conducted by researchers at the University of Otago, has shed light on the unexpected virtues of kiwi on one's mood. Published in The British Journal of Nutrition, the findings demonstrate how rapidly this fuzzy fruit can enhance vitality and mood.


Vitamin C, abundantly present in kiwis, has long been associated with better mood, greater vitality, and increased well-being. Conversely, a deficiency in vitamin C is linked to higher depression and cognitive disorders. The researchers wished to study mood changes following the intake of vitamin C supplements, compared to natural dietary sources rich in this vitamin.

For eight weeks, 155 adults with a vitamin C deficiency participated in a dietary intervention. They were divided into groups taking either a daily vitamin C supplement, a placebo, or two kiwis. Through smartphone surveys, participants reported their vitality, mood, well-being, sleep quality, sleep quantity, and physical activity.

The results showed that kiwi supplementation improved vitality and mood in just four days, with a peak around 14 to 16 days. Vitamin C, on the other hand, slightly improved mood up to the 12th day. The study's lead author, Dr. Ben Fletcher, emphasizes the importance of understanding the nuances of the daily effects of these interventions on mental health. "This helps us understand that our diet can have a relatively rapid impact on our mental well-being," he explains.


Although vitamin C tablets have shown some improvements, the study highlights the potential synergistic effects of consuming whole fruits like kiwi. "We advocate a holistic approach to nutrition and well-being, incorporating a variety of nutrient-rich foods into your diet," he adds.