Social media is debating Jenna Ortega eating kiwi with the skin on, but the truth behind it is little known

A recent video of actress Jenna Ortega eating kiwi with the skin on has taken the internet by storm—triggering everything from laughter and shock to curiosity and support. While some viewers were quick to label it “unhinged behavior,” others applauded her for embracing the fruit whole. But beneath the viral moment lies a bigger question: Is it actually healthy to eat kiwi with the skin?

The short answer? Yes, according to nutrition experts. And in fact, it may be the smarter (and healthier) way to eat this fuzzy fruit.

The Video That Sparked a Debate

In a now-viral video clip, Jenna Ortega—best known for her lead role in Netflix’s “Wednesday”—is seen casually biting into a whole kiwi, skin and all. No spoon. No peeling. Just straight into the fuzzy fruit as if it were an apple.

The internet, as expected, had a lot to say.

Comments poured in across social platforms. Some viewers were horrified by the idea of eating the hairy exterior, while others shared that they too enjoy kiwi skin as part of their regular routine. Amidst the online frenzy, health professionals stepped in to offer clarity.

Is It Safe to Eat Kiwi with Skin?

Yes—it is not only safe to eat kiwi with the skin, but doing so can actually increase the fruit’s nutritional value. The fuzzy brown layer, while texturally off-putting to some, is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins that often go to waste when the fruit is peeled.

The skin contains high levels of vitamin C, vitamin E, and folate, all of which contribute to immune function, skin health, and cell regeneration. Plus, eating the kiwi whole provides up to 50% more fiber compared to eating it peeled—making it an excellent fruit for digestion and gut health.

Doctor’s Take: Expert Weighs In on the Kiwi Skin Trend

Dr. Joseph Salhab, a gastroenterologist known on Instagram as “thestomachdoc”, chimed in with his professional opinion. According to him, peeling a kiwi means leaving nutrients on the cutting board.

“You’re leaving nutrients on the cutting board if you peel your kiwi,” Dr. Salhab wrote in his Instagram post. “Eat it with the skin to get more vitamin C & E (for liver support and antioxidants), plus folate, magnesium, vitamin B6, and about 50% more fiber.”

He also highlighted additional benefits of eating the fruit in its entirety, shedding light on kiwi’s potential role in sleep quality, colon health, and constipation relief.

Kiwi for Better Sleep

One of the lesser-known benefits of kiwi is its natural content of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep cycles. Dr. Salhab recommends consuming 1–2 kiwis about two hours before bed to support more restful and higher-quality sleep.

This simple habit may help people who struggle with falling or staying asleep, offering a natural alternative to sleep aids.

Colon Health and Cancer Prevention

Beyond digestion, kiwi has also been linked with improved colon health. Studies suggest that regular kiwi intake can help reduce oxidative DNA damage and improve intestinal transit time—both of which are associated with a lower risk of colon cancer over time.

While more long-term research is needed, the existing evidence supports kiwi’s role as a protective food for the digestive system.

Gentle Relief from Constipation

As a gastroenterologist, Dr. Salhab frequently recommends kiwi to patients dealing with constipation. The fruit offers gentle yet effective relief without the harsh side effects of chemical laxatives. Its combination of soluble and insoluble fiber, along with natural enzymes like actinidin, makes kiwi a top choice for improving regularity.

Adding it to yogurt or smoothies can make the experience more enjoyable—especially for those who dislike the fruit’s fuzzy texture.

But What About the Texture?

The number one reason most people avoid eating kiwi skin is the texture. The fuzz can feel coarse or even irritating to the mouth for some. Dr. Salhab offers a few tips:

If the texture bothers you, wait until the kiwi is softer and fully ripe, when the skin becomes thinner and less abrasive. Alternatively, choose golden kiwis, which have a smoother, less fuzzy exterior and a naturally sweeter taste.

Another method is to slice the fruit and pair it with yogurt or blend it into a smoothie, so the texture is less noticeable while keeping the nutrient-rich skin.

Potential Allergies: A Word of Caution

While eating kiwi with the skin is generally safe and healthy, not everyone should try it. Dr. Salhab included an important disclaimer: “Some people may be allergic to kiwi, which can cause itching, swelling, or even trouble breathing.”

Those who’ve experienced symptoms after eating kiwi—especially tingling or burning in the mouth—should consult a doctor and avoid consuming the skin.

It’s also crucial to wash the kiwi thoroughly before eating to remove any dirt, pesticides, or bacteria from the outer surface.

Jenna Ortega Eats Kiwi with Skin—and Sparks a Health Trend

While Jenna Ortega may have unintentionally sparked a health trend with her unconventional kiwi snack, the science supports her approach. In fact, her casual bite into a whole kiwi may be a step toward changing the way people look at fruit consumption in general.

Often, people are quick to peel, core, or discard parts of fruits and vegetables that actually hold significant nutritional value. From apple skins to potato peels, and now kiwi fuzz, these parts often contain higher concentrations of vitamins and minerals.

Jenna Ortega eating kiwi with the skin serves as a simple yet effective reminder: sometimes the healthiest choices are the least processed and the most natural.

The Bottom Line: Should You Try It?

If you’re not allergic and don’t mind a bit of fuzz, eating kiwi with the skin on can be a smart way to boost your daily intake of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s a quick, easy, and zero-waste snack that supports digestion, sleep, and overall gut health.

The next time you reach for a kiwi, consider doing what Jenna Ortega did—take a bite, fuzz and all. You might just discover that the skin isn’t just edible, but beneficial too.