Kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.) Dietary Consumption for Constipation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The aim of this systematic review is to understand if kiwifruit dietary consumption can effectively improve constipation and intestinal function. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library were systematically searched for relevant studies from inception up September 2021. After database search, nine clinical considered eligible inclusion. Most trials characterised by a limited number study participants (median: 20, min: 11, max: 79) had cross-over design. On average, ate two four kiwifruits day period varying three days weeks. Included almost exclusively involved young or middle-aged adults with high female-to-male ratio, whereas direct evidence elderly people (>65 years old) scant. Moderate quality indicated that complete bowel movements per week decrease stool consistency in both healthy subjects patients due irritable syndrome, probably owing the fruit fibre water content. Kiwifruit also have beneficial effects beyond motility, such as mild anti-inflammatory antioxidant effect on gut barrier, combined activity all its nutrients (enzymes, vitamins, minerals). When only affected considered, was likely associated short-term significant increase defecation frequency but not always changes consistency. These results supported highest methodological confirmed meta-analysis about kiwifruit-based interventions (g = 0.576; 95% CI: (0.174; 0.978); p 0.012). Further investigations topic are recommended strengthen current larger trials.