Avocados are a stone fruit with a creamy texture that grow in warm climates
Their potential health benefits include improving digestion, decreasing the risk of depression, and protecting against cancer.
Also known as an alligator pear or butter fruit, the versatile avocado is the only fruit that provides a substantial amount of healthy monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). Avocados are naturally nutrient-dense food and contain nearly 20 vitamins and minerals.
Avocados are nutrient-rich Avocados are a great source of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and potassium. They also provide lutein, beta-carotene, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Healthy for the heart Avocados contain 25 milligrams per ounce of a natural plant sterol called beta-sitosterol. Regular consumption of beta-sitosterol and other plant sterols has been seen to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Great for vision Avocados contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two phytochemicals that are especially concentrated in the tissues in the eyes where they provide antioxidant protection to help minimize damage, including from ultraviolet light.
Osteoporosis prevention Half of an avocado provides approximately 25 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K. Vitamin K is often overshadowed by calcium and vitamin D when thinking of nutrients important for maintaining healthy bones, however, eating a diet with adequate vitamin K can support bone health by increasing calcium absorption and reducing urinary excretion of calcium.
Cancer Adequate intake of folate from food has shown promise in protecting against colon, stomach, pancreatic, and cervical cancers.
Lower risk of depression Foods containing high levels of folate may help to decrease the risk of depression because folate helps to prevent the build-up of homocysteine, a substance that can impair circulation and delivery of nutrients to the brain.
Improved digestion Despite its creamy texture, an avocado is actually high in fiber with approximately 6-7 grams per half fruit.
Natural detoxification Adequate fiber promotes regular bowel movements, which are crucial for the daily excretion of toxins through the bile and stool.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/jszaI6D_kr8
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270406
- https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/benefits-of-avocado-11-more-reasons-to-love-the-fruit-1840244
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