To stop kiwi from burning tongue, mix it with yogurt or milk before consuming. This will help neutralize the acidity of the kiwi fruit.
Kiwi is a delicious fruit that packs a punch of vitamin c and other essential nutrients. However, its high acidity can sometimes cause a burning sensation in the tongue and mouth. This can be uncomfortable and unpleasant for many people.
Fortunately, there are some simple tricks that can help prevent this from happening. In this article, we will explore the reasons why kiwi can burn your tongue and how to stop it from happening. We will also examine some of the health benefits of kiwi and how to incorporate it into your diet.
Credit: www.medicalnewstoday.com
Why Does Kiwi Burn Your Tongue?
Kiwi is a nutritious fruit packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin c, fiber, and potassium. However, many people experience a burning sensation in their mouths after consuming kiwi, which can be quite uncomfortable. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why kiwi burns your tongue and provide tips on how to prevent it.
Description Of Kiwi Fruit’S Properties
- Kiwi belongs to the actinidia genus and is a unique fruit that has a furry brown exterior and vibrant green flesh inside.
- The fruit is an excellent source of vitamin c and antioxidants that help boost the immune system and fight off diseases.
- Kiwi has a tangy yet sweet taste, which makes it a popular addition to smoothies, salads, and fruit bowls.
Explanation Of The Enzyme Actinidin
- Actinidin is an enzyme found in kiwi and is responsible for breaking down proteins in the fruit.
- This enzyme is similar to papain, found in papaya, and bromelain, found in pineapple, which are also known for their digestive properties.
- While actinidin aids in digestion, it can also cause a burning sensation in the mouth of some individuals.
Effects Of Actinidin On The Tongue
- The burning sensation in the mouth after consuming kiwi is caused by actinidin breaking down proteins in the tongue’s mucous membranes.
- The enzyme can irritate the tongue, causing inflammation, redness, and itching.
- The symptoms of kiwi-induced tongue burning can appear within minutes and can last for up to 48 hours.
Here are some tips to avoid kiwi-induced tongue burning:
- Choose ripe kiwis as they contain a lower amount of actinidin compared to unripe ones.
- Peel the skin off the kiwi before consuming it as actinidin is highly concentrated in the skin.
- Rinse your mouth with water after consuming kiwi to wash away any excess actinidin in the mouth.
- If you are highly sensitive to kiwi, avoid eating the fruit altogether.
Kiwi is a highly nutritious fruit that can cause a burning sensation in the mouth due to the presence of actinidin. By following the tips mentioned above, you can prevent kiwi-induced tongue burning and enjoy the goodness of kiwi without any discomfort.
Symptoms Of Kiwi Burns
Kiwi is not just a delicious fruit but has plenty of health benefits to offer. However, one of the biggest issues people face while consuming kiwi is a burning sensation in the tongue. If you are also experiencing this uncomfortable feeling after eating kiwi, you should know that it is a common problem that can be avoided by taking some precautions.
To help you with it, we have come up with a brief guide on the “symptoms of kiwi burns” that will enable you to understand the problem better and also provide you some quick relief tips.
Physical Symptoms Of Kiwi Burns On The Tongue
Physical symptoms of kiwi burns can be easily noticeable. Here are some of the common physical symptoms you can experience after eating a kiwi.
- Swollen or red tongue
- Numbness in the tongue
- Sensitivity to spicy foods
- Irritation in the mouth
- Blister formation on the tongue
- Difficulty in swallowing
Psychological Symptoms Of Kiwi Burns
Beside physical symptoms, kiwi burns can also cause some psychological symptoms which can be distressing. Here are some of the psychological symptoms caused by kiwi burns.
- Anxiety and nervousness
- Fear of eating or trying new food
- Difficulty in sleeping
- Depression
- Decreased appetite
To avoid experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to know some preventive measures to take before eating kiwi. These simple tips can help you enjoy kiwi without any discomfort:
- Avoid eating kiwi in large quantities
- Rinse your mouth properly after consuming kiwi
- Eat kiwi on a full stomach
- Consume kiwi in moderation
- Drink cold water or milk to reduce the burning sensation
Being aware of the symptoms of kiwi burns is necessary for everyone who loves to enjoy kiwi. By identifying and taking preventive measures, you can savor the health benefits that kiwi has to offer without any discomfort. Remember to follow the tips mentioned above and enjoy your kiwi without fear of discomfort.
Preventing Kiwi Burns
Choosing The Right Kiwi Fruit
When choosing kiwi fruit, you should opt for those that are fresh and firm to touch. Soft kiwis can be overripe or mushy, making them more likely to burn your tongue. Additionally, it’s essential to choose fruit with no bruising, nicks, or cuts.
Damaged areas are more likely to cause oral irritation.
Ways Of Preparing Kiwi Fruit That Reduce The Risk Of Burns
There are several ways to prepare kiwi fruit that can reduce the likelihood of burning your tongue. Here are some tips to follow:
- Cut the kiwi fruit into small pieces or slice it before eating to decrease direct contact with your mouth’s surface.
- Remove the skin with a vegetable peeler, making sure to take off only the outer layer and not the fruit’s flesh.
- Rinse the kiwi fruit with water and dry with a paper towel to remove any possible irritants.
- Store kiwi fruit in your refrigerator. Cold kiwi fruit can reduce the likelihood of burns, as low temperatures may numb the tongue slightly.
Techniques For Eating Kiwi Fruit Safely
Kiwi fruit can be enjoyed safely if you follow these techniques:
- Take small bites of kiwi fruit instead of placing the whole fruit in your mouth.
- Try not to chew too much in one go. Instead, take your time to savor the flavor and keep your mouth from getting overloaded with fruit acids.
- Avoid eating kiwi fruit just before workout sessions or while fatigued, as your taste buds and tongue may be more sensitive.
By following these simple techniques, you can quickly improve your kiwi fruit eating experience, reducing the risk of tongue burns and other oral irritations.
Treating Kiwi Burns
Kiwi is a delicious and nutritious fruit that is packed with numerous vitamins and minerals. However, consuming this fruit may sometimes result in an unpleasant sensation known as kiwi burn. This condition occurs due to the presence of actinidin, a protein-dissolving enzyme found in kiwi, which irritates the mouth, lips, and tongue.
If you happen to experience kiwi burn, don’t worry. Here’s what you can do to soothe and heal your affected areas.
What To Do Immediately After Kiwi Burn:
- Spit the kiwi juice out immediately and rinse your mouth with cold water.
- Gargle with salt water to help soothe the affected area.
- Sip cold milk or eat plain yoghurt to reduce the burning sensation.
- Avoid drinking hot beverages or eating spicy foods that can further irritate the tongue.
Home Remedies For Soothing Kiwi Burns:
- Apply aloe vera gel on the affected area to soothe the burn.
- Place a slice of cucumber or a cold, damp tea bag on the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Mix baking soda with water and apply the paste to the affected area to neutralize the acid.
- Apply honey on the affected area to benefit from its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Medical Treatment For Severe Kiwi Burns:
- Consult a doctor if the burning sensation persists or if you experience swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe pain.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help relieve the pain.
- Your doctor may recommend a topical medication or prescribe an oral medication to treat severe kiwi burns.
Kiwi burns are uncomfortable, but they can be treated with simple home remedies. However, seek medical attention if the burning sensation persists, and take steps to prevent kiwi burns in the future, such as peeling the kiwi or cooking it before consuming.
Remember to exercise caution to continue enjoying the delicious benefits of kiwi without burning your tongue.
Frequently Asked Questions Of How To Stop Kiwi From Burning Tongue
What Causes A Burning Sensation When Eating Kiwi?
Kiwi contains the enzyme actinidin, which breaks down proteins and can cause a mild irritation on the tongue, leading to a burning sensation.
How Do You Know If You’Re Allergic To Kiwi?
If you experience symptoms like itching, hives, swelling in the mouth or throat, or difficulty breathing after consuming kiwi, you may be allergic. Seek medical attention if you have an allergic reaction.
How Can You Prevent A Burning Sensation When Eating Kiwi?
Try peeling the kiwi before eating it or cooking the kiwi to break down the actinidin enzyme. You can also mix it with other foods to lessen the intensity.
Can Kiwi Cause Mouth Ulcers?
Kiwi’s high acid content and the enzyme actinidin can irritate the delicate mucous membranes of your mouth, causing ulcers in some people if they eat too much or if they’re particularly sensitive.
Are There Any Health Benefits To Eating Kiwi?
Yes! Kiwi is a good source of vitamin c, dietary fiber, and antioxidants like polyphenols and carotenoids. Eating kiwi may also improve digestion and support heart health.
Conclusion
After following the above-mentioned tips, you can finally enjoy the delicious taste of kiwi without any fear of burning your tongue. It’s important to choose a ripe and fresh kiwi, and wash it thoroughly before consuming. You can either peel the fruit or cut it into slices as per your convenience.
It’s also important to consume the kiwi in moderation as excessive consumption can cause other health issues. However, with these simple tips, you can enjoy the benefits of kiwi without any problems. By incorporating this delicious fruit into your diet, you can easily improve your immunity, digestion, and overall health.
So, go ahead and indulge in the goodness of kiwi without any hesitation and happy eating!