Summary: Recent research from the University of Otago reveals that kiwifruit can rapidly enhance mood and vitality in as little as four days. The study, involving 155 adults with low vitamin C levels, compared the effects of vitamin C supplements, a placebo, and kiwifruit over an 8-week intervention. While vitamin C showed slight mood improvements, kiwifruit supplementation led to a significant boost in vitality and overall well-being. This study emphasizes the speedy mental health benefits of whole foods over supplements.
Source: University of Otago
Kiwifruit has emerged as a potent mood booster, and a recent study from the University of Otago sheds light on how quickly its effects can manifest.
Published in The British Journal of Nutrition, the research demonstrates that the furry fruit enhances vitality and mood in just four days.
Co-author Professor Tamlin Conner, from the Department of Psychology, sees these findings as a tangible and accessible way for individuals to support their mental well-being.
While vitamin C has been linked to improved mood and vitality, the study aimed to fill the gap in research regarding the speed of mood improvements with vitamin C supplements or whole food sources.
In an 8-week intervention involving 155 adults with low vitamin C, participants were given a daily vitamin C supplement, a placebo, or two kiwifruits. Smartphone surveys were used to report vitality, mood, flourishing, sleep quality, sleep quantity, and physical activity.
The results indicated that kiwifruit supplementation improved vitality and mood within four days, peaking around 14-16 days, and enhanced flourishing from day 14. In contrast, vitamin C marginally improved mood until day 12.
Lead author Dr. Ben Fletcher, conducting the research as part of his PhD at Otago, highlights that understanding the day-to-day nuances of these effects contributes to our knowledge of vitamin C-rich foods and supplements on mental health.
Participants, who already had relatively good mental health, reported benefits from kiwifruit or vitamin C interventions, showcasing the potential fast impact of dietary choices on well-being.
While vitamin C tablets showed some improvements, the study underscores the synergistic effects of consuming whole foods like kiwifruit.
Professor Conner encourages a holistic approach to nutrition and well-being, urging individuals to incorporate various nutrient-rich foods into their diets.
Beyond individual well-being, the study introduces a novel methodology in nutritional research through the use of intensive smartphone surveys, offering real-time insights into day-to-day changes in mood-related outcomes.