Kiwis
Kiwifruit is high in vitamins C and E. Two medium kiwis have almost twice the amount of vitamin C as that of an orange. It also promotes wound healing and iron absorption for healthy bones, blood vessels, and teeth.
In addition to their vitamin C goodness, kiwis contain a rare, fat-free form of vitamin E.
Kiwi is also high in tryptophan which creates serotonin, and serotonin boosts learning, memory, and mood, and also helps regulate your appetite. Kiwis are also found to aid in both falling and staying asleep. By the way, plantain, bananas and pineapple have even more serotonin than kiwis. Kiwifruit also contains the phytochemical lutein which is beneficial for eye health.
In terms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Kiwi is known for its ability to clear heat. In general kiwis enter the meridians of Stomach, Spleen, and Urinary Bladder. The flavor of Kiwi is sweet and sour, and it is considered to be cool in temperature, therefore it clears heat and toxins, and is useful for summer heat, thirst, and inflammatory conditions (sore throat, mouth ulcers).
It also helps with excess liver heat (which can create irritability and red eyes).
They generates body fluids and nourish yin so they moisten dry throat, dry cough, and treat yin deficiency (some symptoms include night sweats and hot flashes).
The fiber and enzymes in them help promote bowel movements, especially for heat-type constipation (associated with dry, hard stools).
Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, specifically in anthocyanidins (the blue-red pigment) which have been found to improve of the integrity of the whole vascular system. Specifically, these antioxidants are important for promoting the stability of collagen matrices, decreasing the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, varicose veins. Blueberries are also a source of resveratrol, a phytonutrient found in the skin, that benefits the cardiovascular system. These antioxidants and phytonutrients in blueberries have also been shown to improve cognition by protecting the brain from oxidative stress. Blueberries in general ae a great source of dietary fiber, manganese, and vitamins A, B1, B3, C, and E.
Try to enjoy blueberries fresh, not just cooked in a pie, as many of the powerful nutrients found in blueberries can degrade easily with heat.
In terms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Blueberry is known for its ability to clear heat, expel dampness, and eliminate toxins.
They enter the meridians of Lung, Stomach, and Spleen. The flavor of Blueberry is sweet and sour, and it is considered to be cool to warm in temperature by various sources. Try to source organic blueberries whenever possible, as pesticide residue can be a problem.
Bluberries may help with symptoms of kidney weakness such as cognitive decline, frequent urination, and symptoms of blood deficiency such as anemia.
As a personal philosophy regarding eating foods seasonally, and to be in alignment with the dietary recommendations of TCM, it is best to consume cold fruits in the warmer summer months and avoid them during the cold winter, as they damage our digestive fires and can cause diarrhea, bloating and other abdominal discomforts.
