Exotic Fruit BOOSTS Energy and Mood (YUM!)
When it comes to good-for-you fruit, people tend to load up on popular ones like oranges and blueberries.
But they aren’t the only fruits you should be stocking up this winter.
Because one study shows that a certain exotic fruit can BOOST your energy… and improve your MOOD.
Even better? It’s absolutely delicious!
I’m a fan of getting as much of your nutrition through whole foods as possible.
Of course, many factors make supplementation necessary—reduced nutrient absorption and lack of sunlight exposure are two that come to mind right away.
But an interesting study just published in the journal Nutrients showcases one reason why eating the whole food is the best option.
Researchers divided 167 people with low levels of vitamin C into one of three groups.
- One group ate two Sungold kiwifruit (a variety known for its high vitamin C levels)
- One group took a vitamin C supplement (250 mg)
- One group took a placebo pill.
After just two weeks, the vitamin C supplement group and the group eating kiwifruit increased their blood levels of vitamin C to normal.
Both groups also reported less fatigue and improved mood—although more people in the kiwi group experienced these improvements.
Vitamin C is typically touted for its immune-boosting properties, but it’s actually great for your mood, too.
You see, vitamin C increases the production of hormones and brain chemicals like adrenalin, serotonin, and oxytocin—all of which help you control stress, help regulate your mood, and help you feel better overall.
It’s likely that more people in the kiwi group experienced these benefits because the fruit contains fiber and other nutrients that can help improve gut health.
And there’s a strong connection between gut health and mood.
Yet another reason to load up on vitamin C this winter.
