Researchers from the University of Otago in New Zealand have found a direct and strong link between the level of this vitamin in the blood and improved basic skin functions.
The study, conducted on volunteers in New Zealand and Germany and published in a dermatology journal, showed that consuming just two kiwifruit a day for eight weeks , providing approximately 250 micrograms of vitamin C, led to tangible results. Skin thickness increased significantly due to stimulated collagen production, and skin cell regeneration accelerated, improving elasticity and its ability to protect against ultraviolet radiation.
Professor Margaret Vissers, the research team leader, commented that the results were surprising, as they found that the skin absorbs vitamin C from the bloodstream very efficiently, prioritizing its delivery to the outer layers. She added that this explains why dietary intake of the vitamin is more effective in improving skin health than simply applying it topically through lotions, which have difficulty penetrating the skin barrier due to the vitamin's high water solubility.
Vissers emphasized that the key is maintaining optimal blood levels of vitamin C, something easily achievable through a daily diet. Since the body cannot store this vitamin, she recommended consuming at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily, ensuring that these include a vitamin C-rich source such as citrus fruits, berries, or bell peppers.
The benefits of kiwi, which was used as a model in the study, aren't limited to the skin. Research also indicates its role in improving digestion and boosting mood within a few days, enhancing sleep quality when consumed before bed, and its benefits for heart and eye health, as well as weight management. This confirms that this small green fruit is truly a treasure trove of numerous health benefits.
The study was published in the journal Investigative Dermatology.
