New Delhi: Visceral fat refers to excessive fat that accumulates within the abdominal cavity – around the liver, intestines, and stomach. This form of fat over time raises the risk of heart diseases; it also releases molecules linked to a heart attack. Although this isn’t a form of fat that melts easily with exercise, there are some nutrient-dense foods that can help get rid of visceral fat. And there is a particular fruit that can speed up the rate at which visceral fat is burnt – and that too within only 12 weeks.  

The fruit that helps torch visceral fat

Kiwis are one of the healthiest fruits there are famed for an excellent nutrition profile. Not only do they act as an antidote for diseases, but kiwis also boost metabolism and contain high levels of antioxidants strongly linked to longevity. And according to a study published in Nutrient, kiwis can also help regulate blood sugar levels, and eventually promote weight loss.

For this, participants were asked to consume two kiwis every day for a 12-weeks period. When concluded, the authors of the study reported the following positive effects:

1. Significant increase in plasma vitamin C
2. Decrease In waist circumference
3. Lower waist-to-hip ratio
4. Reduction in diastolic and systolic blood pressure

The nutrition profile of kiwis

Kiwifruits have the highest quantities of vitamin C as opposed to any other fruit – a single kiwi gives 40 per cent of the daily recommended intake of this nutrient, thereby linking it to fat-burning properties. Research shows that high levels of vitamin C can help burn 30 per cent more fat during exercise.

Supporting this, a study published in the Journal of American College of Nutrition, it was discovered that people with low vitamin C levels are more resistant to fat loss. The same study credited vitamin C for blood sugar lowering properties beneficial for diabetes patients. Kiwis also lower sugar uptake in the bloodstream preventing excessive insulin release.

Can kiwis help with cholesterol?

Kiwi intake is also linked to a lower level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – a marker that is also known as bad cholesterol. As per a study published in International Food Sciences and Nutrition, the effects of kiwi on lipid profiles of 43 male and female patients with hyperlipidemia – high levels of fats in the blood – were observed for an eight-week period.  

Results showed that after eight weeks of kiwi intake, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) – a marker also known as good cholesterol levels – increased. This helped strike a better balance between good and bad cholesterol levels thereby improving heart health. Kiwis also improved vitamin E levels in the body and were also credited for cancer prevention benefits and lower risk of DNA damage.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.