Zespri Holds 'Nutrition Academic Exchange Seminar'
SunGold Activates Immune Cells, Green Improves Gut Health
A study has found that kiwi can be an effective alternative for improving the unbalanced eating habits of Koreans. With a low glycemic index, rich dietary fiber, and high nutrient density, it is analyzed to help improve gut health and immunity.
Professor Jeong Heewon of the Department of Geriatrics at Seoul Asan Medical Center, a leading figure in the slow aging trend, stated at the "Korea-New Zealand Nutrition Academic Exchange Seminar" held on the 9th (local time) at Zespri's headquarters in Tauranga, New Zealand, "Fruits contain various micronutrients and can be a healthy alternative to typical high-sugar snacks," adding, "Fruits like kiwi, which are rich in dietary fiber and have a high nutrient density, can provide practical help in improving eating habits."
Professor Margriet Vissers of the Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science at the University of Otago, New Zealand, who attended the seminar, revealed, "In the experimental group consuming two SunGold kiwis daily, increases in vitamin C levels, immune cell activation, and fatigue reduction effects were confirmed." Dr. Simon Beyer from the Department of Nutrition also presented research results stating, "Green kiwi significantly improved abdominal pain and bowel movement issues in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and functional constipation."
Both experts emphasized, "Regular consumption of fruits and vegetables positively affects not only maintaining a healthy immune system but also improving gut health," and stressed, "It is important to choose foods with high nutrient density." 'Nutrient density' is an indicator that refers to the amount of nutrients contained per calorie. Zespri kiwis recorded high scores such as RubyRed 28.5, SunGold 26.7, and Green 19.5.
In Korea, Professor Song Yoonju of the Department of Food and Nutrition at Catholic University appeared as a presenter. Professor Song pointed out, "About 69% of Koreans do not meet the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended levels of fruit and vegetable intake, with a particularly noticeable deficiency among young people in their 20s and 30s." He added, "Misunderstandings about sugar content and the burden of fruit prices are major factors," and said, "When consumed as fresh fruit, fruits are highly nutritious foods containing various components such as dietary fiber, minerals, vitamins, and polyphenols."
During the comprehensive discussion that day, opinions continued that "a shift to a new food culture that evaluates food quality beyond simple calorie counting is necessary." Experts agreed, saying, "Along with expanding awareness of foods with high nutrient density, education and campaigns targeting consumers should also be conducted simultaneously."
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