Kiwano, or African horned melon, is native to Africa and cultivated in New Zealand. A member of the Cucumis metuliferus family, with melons, cucumbers and squash, the kiwano resembles a lemon cucumber with spikes studding its skin. The kiwano's flesh is light green and heavily seeded. The flavor is similar to a banana with a citrus bite. Often included in fruit salads and eaten raw, the kiwano is a nutritious and exotic fruit available throughout the summer.
Vitamin C
A kiwano provides 11 mg of vitamin C, or 18 percent of the FDA recommended Daily Value of 60 mg. Including concentrated sources of vitamin C in the diet is important because the nutrient is needed for the function of several body systems. Vitamin C is necessary for the generation of collagen, a component of skin tissue used for creating and repairing epidermal and organ tissues. It also protects cells from damage caused by free radicals and toxins, waste byproducts of metabolism, that can lead to the development of disease and cause premature aging.
Potassium
A kiwano contains 257 mg potassium, or 7 percent of the FDA recommended daily intake. Potassium is an important mineral needed for all cells, tissues and organs in the body to function optimally. The maintenance of a balanced ratio of sodium, calcium and potassium in the blood is necessary for optimal health. When sodium levels are excessive, as they often are in American diets, increasing potassium levels may be necessary. Potassium also behaves as an electrolyte that regulates muscle contractions in the heart and digestive system.
Zinc
A kiwano provides 1 mg of zinc, or 7 percent of the 15 mg needed each day. On average, most Americans do not consume the minimum daily requirement of zinc, according to Ohio State University. Including zinc sources in the diet is important because it contributes to the formation of protein, which repairs wounds and generates blood cells. Zinc also participates in the function and release of insulin necessary for normal carbohydrate metabolism.
Vitamin A
A kiwano contains 307 IU of vitamin A, or 6 percent of the 5,000 IU recommended each day. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for the support of the retina function in the eye that maintains vision. Vitamin A also strengthens the integrity of the mucosal lining, the first line of defense against infection in the nasal passages, throat and intestines.
Member Comments