Avocados could be considered nature’s miracle food because they are packed with nutrients. Fortunately, avocados are available year round so there is no excuse not to have one daily.
Avocados contain oleic acid, which helps lower cholesterol. In one study, participants who included avocados in their diet for a week showed an improvement in their cholesterol levels. A myth about avocados is that they are high in fat. There is good fat and bad fat. Unsaturated fat, or bad fat, can cause health concerns and weight gain. Avocados are high in monounsaturated fat which is the fat that is good for your body.
Avocados help with the fight against heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure because they are high in potassium. Folic acid is also present in avocados and can help the body fight against heart disease. Studies have shown that older women, whose diet consists of avocados, can lower their risk of cardiovascular disease.
Avocados can also assist in helping the body absorb nutrients from other foods. There are studies that support avocados ability to help fight certain types of cancer. Avocados are a good source of vitamins K and C.
Warnings
Some people who are allergic to latex may be allergic to avocados. Avocados contain chitinases, which is an enzyme that the body reacts to as if it was a pathogen. The connection between latex and latex fruit allergy is strong.
How to Select an Avocado
Avocados are best eaten when they are slightly soft and their skin is free of spots or bruising. Try not to select more than you are ready to eat as they tend to ripen quickly.
You can effortlessly add avocados to your diet by chopping one and eating it with your salad. You could also mix a few slices in your salsa. Try two or three slices of avocado with a piece of fruit and crackers for a quick, healthy snack. Consider replacing mayonnaise with an avocado spread. You can mash a slice or two of avocado in a bowl and spread on bread.
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