Benefits of Avocados — How Are They Good for Your Health?
Growing up, we have a huge avocado tree in our backyard. During the summer season, especially in May, my father always picks some from it to make us dessert. It’s one of the fond memories I have when I reminisce about my childhood.
As time went by, I learned that you can make anything with avocado. From shakes to toasts and desserts, it is very very beneficial to your health. It has become one of the staple foods in every kitchen.
What is an avocado?
Avocado is a fruit with bright green color that turns dark leathery when ripe. Many people call it “alligator pears” or “butter fruit” because of its texture. It’s also a very versatile fruit that can be good in salad, as a partner for your toast, and of course, can be turned into shakes and smoothies. Most of these fruits grow and are native to tropical climate countries including the Philippines.
Nutritional benefits of an avocado
A medium-sized avocado (50 grams/1.7 ounces) contains a lot of calories. One ounce enough contains 50 calories. Additionally, it contains a rich fat, mostly monounsaturated fat. That is good for our body and it helps in lowering bad cholesterol. Here’s what can you get in an 80g portion of avocado:
- 152 kcal/627KJ
- 5g protein
- 6g fat
- 5g carbohydrates
- 6g fiber
- 360mg potassium
- 56mg vitamin E
Top health benefits of avocado
Support heart health
Since they are very rich in monounsaturated fat, research suggests that it protects your heart against disease and lower blood pressure. Similarly, avocado contains folate and fiber that is beneficial for your cardiovascular system.
Regulates your appetite
Because of its high fat and calorie content, research suggests that it leads you to feel satiety. For those people who watch their weight, they are a great choice for filling your appetite.
Keep your eyes healthy
With its additional vitamin E, avocados also contain carotenes including lutein and zeaxanthin. This compound helps to protect your eyes and give off a healthy glow.
Risk of eating
Just watch out for allergies that may come from eating this delectable fruit. Latex products are made from the proteins of a sap of Brazilian rubber tree. These proteins are very similar to avocado that’s why it causes latex allergy. Consult your doctor first before consuming it if you suspect that you have one. However, other than that, avocado is very safe to consume. Just make sure to regulate your eating since it’s a fatty fruit.
In conclusion…
Avocados are one of the fruits that contain a lot of nutrition. It’s beneficial to your health such as your cardiovascular and digestive systems. Apart from health, it is a versatile fruit and with many recipes available to try, you can make anything with it.
