The aim of this study was to determine whether regular consumption of gold kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) by older individuals reduces the incidence, duration and severity of symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections in comparison to banana. A total of 32 community-dwelling people aged 65 years or older participated in a randomised crossover study, consuming the equivalent of four kiwifruit or two bananas daily for 4 weeks, with treatments separated by a 4-week washout period. Daily consumption of kiwifruit was associated with a significant reduction in the duration of a sore throat and the duration and severity of head congestion. Kiwifruit significantly increased plasma vitamin C, α-tocopherol and lutein/zeaxanthin concentrations, and erythrocyte folate concentrations, and significantly reduced plasma lipid peroxidation.
Hunter DC, Skinner MA, Wolber FM, Booth CL, Loh JM, Wohlers M, Stevenson LM, Kruger MC. Consumption of gold kiwifruit reduces severity and duration of selected upper respiratory tract infection symptoms and increases plasma vitamin C concentration in healthy older adults. Br J Nutr. 2011 Dec 15:1-11.
http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract?fromPage=online&aid=8457413
