The avocado is a nutritious and delicious fruit with many health benefits. Developing countries all over the world are even trying to adapt the avocado as a substitute as it is very high in protein and other important nutrients. In addition, this healthy fruit is one of the most recommended foods for cholesterol-related heart conditions and diseases.
For years, many have been told to avoid the avocado because of the high fat and caloric content. While the avocado is high in fat, the majority of it is health-promoting monounsaturated fat. The health advantages of the avocado are among some of the most valued, and this fruit is one of the most nutritious foods in the market. Read on to learn about the many health benefits of the avocado.
Nutritional Advantages
The avocado has the second highest content of monounsaturated fatty acids of all fruits, following the olive. These fats help control the metabolic rate and actually reduce overeating. In addition to the monounsaturated fats, an avocado has three times the amount of potassium of a banana, and also contains iron, copper, magnesium, and phosphorus. Avocados are packed with vitamins such as Vitamin A, B-complex, folic acid, Vitamin C and E, and calcium as well. They are also a rich source of fiber and have a low sugar and starch content, making them an ideal food for diabetic patients.
Health Advantages
The avocado is a known health promoter and can aid in many health conditions:
- Blood pressure: The high amounts of folic acid and potassium help regulate blood pressure and help fight off stroke, heart problems, and circulatory diseases.
- Cholesterol: The content of oleic and linoleic acids are shown to lower LDL cholesterol and increase healthy cholesterol.
- Stomach ulcers: The mildness of this fruit is soothing to the sensitive surfaces of the stomach and duodenum, and is an effective treatment for ulcers.
- Immune system: Eating avocados regularly strengthens and boosts the immune system.
- Eyesight: The anti-oxidants in avocados help neutralize free radicals that improve eyesight and ward off astigmatism, glaucoma, and cataracts.
- Bad breath: The avocado is effective in removing intestinal decomposition and putrefactions that cause unpleasant breath.
- Kidney stones: The potassium content helps to lower urinary calcium excretion, cutting the risk of kidney stones developing.
- Fetal development: Folic acid in the avocado is beneficial and important for healthy fetal tissue development.
- Morning sickness: Vitamin B6 in avocados can sooth nausea and upset stomach during pregnancy.
- Prostate cancer: Certain phytonutrient substances in avocados have been shown to prevent the growth of prostate cancer cells.
- Muscle and nerve health: The amount of potassium in this fruit helps to balance electrolytes and assist muscle activity, as well as nerve function and energy metabolism.
- Psoriasis: The oil in avocados is useful in the treatment of psoriasis and dry skin.
On top of all the health benefits, the avocado is a delicious fruit and can be consumed in many ways. The possibilities are endless, as one can enjoy this food in salads, main dishes, dips, smoothies and drinks, or just sliced with a dash of salt and pepper.
Sources
Juicing-for-health.com/avocado
Pyroenergen.com
Courtney Ferry - Courtney Ferry is a recent college graduate with a BA in Media Arts. She is a freelance writer and an aspiring journalist who enjoys ...
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