That's right, avocados are actually a fruit! They are packed full of nutrients and well and taste great! Below are some facts that will hopefully make you consider adding them to your diet!
AVOCADOS HAVE THE "GOOD" FATS
Although they have more fat than any other fruit, they are mono-unsaturated fat which is really good for your heart health. The American Heart Association claims:
"[They] help reduce bad cholesterol levels in your blood and lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. They also provide nutrients to help develop and maintain your body’s cells. Monounsaturated fats are also typically high in vitamin E, an antioxidant vitamin most Americans need more of."
AVOCADOS HELP REGULATE BLOOD PRESSURE
They are loaded with magnesium and potassium which are two known nutrients to help reduce blood pressure. The avocado has more magnesium than twenty other fruits including bananas, kiwis and strawberries!
AVOCADOS MAKE A NUTRITIOUS SPREAD
Instead of mayonnaise, butter or other spreads, try using avocado for a more nutritious alternative! It is great in a wrap or sandwich!
HOLY GUACAMOLE THAT'S GOOD STUFF! Guacamole makes a great dip and additive for salads and meals! To keep your guacamole fresh, add plenty of lemon and lime. Adding lemon and lime not only adds flavour but the acidity will slow the oxidation process
AVOCADOS ARE AN EXCELLENT SOURCE OF FIBER There are 10 grams of fiber in a medium sized avocado. About 75% of which is insoluble which speeds up the digestive process! The other 25% is soluble fiber which makes you feel full.
AVOCADOS ASSIST WITH THE ABSORPTION OF NUTRIENTS FROM OTHER FOODS When added to foods such as salad, the absorption of nutrients such as beta carotene increased 13.6 times and alpha-carotene from lettuce by 4.3 times. The mono-unsaturated fat in avocados help the body absorb fat soluble carotenoids as well as fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. *Some Information compiled from American Heart Association and huffingtonpost.com