Food as Medicine; Kiwifruit for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that involves unpleasant symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating and alternating diarrhoea and constipation. The cause of IBS is unknown however lifestyles factor such as routine, emotional stress and diet can trigger an attack (The Department of Health & Human Service, 2018).
 
Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) is enzyme rich and belongs to the Actinidiaceae family. Kiwifruits are potent sources of carotenoids and green kiwifruits contain the proteolytic enzyme, actinidin. Due to the presence of this enzyme, kiwifruit has been historically proven to assist in the digestion of food and help with IBS symptoms such as bloating and constipation. The actinidin in kiwifruits work to decrease colon transit time, increased defecation frequency and improve bowel functions of clients. Actinidin also excites receptors in the colon to increase laxation and motility while decreasing abdominal cramping via inflammation receptors (Chang et al, 2010).
 
Research shows that the introduction of two kiwifruits per day for four weeks resulted in bulkier, softer and increased stool production (Monash University, 2017). The insoluble fibre component of kiwifruit has shown to hold a higher water content which facilitates in faecal bulking that results in laxation. This insoluble fibre acts as a prebiotic, thus modulating the composition of gut microflora such as lactobacillus reuteri, acidophilus and planetarium (Han et al, 2011).
 
The consumption of two green kiwifruits per day to can suppress IBS symptoms, mainly constipation. The consumption of kiwifruits and the biochemical actions of actinidin as a therapeutic tool for IBS doesn’t have any contraindications apart from when experiencing diarrhoea due to IBS.