Avocado Benefits

Did someone say avocado? Is it me, or does it seem like avocado has become America’s favorite fruit? Avocados are fancying up salads and burgers and finding their way into smoothies and sauces. They have invaded menus across America, from the fanciest restaurants to fast food chains like Subway, Panera and even Burger King. And the avocado benefits go well beyond great taste.

And so, it’s no longer a secret: America is officially in love! With avocados, that is. Creamy, buttery, smooth-textured avocados with their distinctive fresh taste have stolen the appetites of many. Even babies love them; Roy’s (my toddler’s) first favorite food was mashed buttery avocado.

Nutrition benefits of avocados

Not only are they tasty, avocados contain many essential vitamins and minerals: B5, B6, C, E and K. They also contain 20% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of folate and 3 grams of protein.

Avocados are loaded with heart-healthy fats. Apparently, not all fats are created equal. Two-thirds of the fat found in avocados is monounsaturated, the same kind found in olive oil, nuts and seeds, and it actually has cardiovascular benefits. Monounsaturated fats can help with cholesterol control and aid in the prevention of heart attack and stroke.

High in potassium: Potassium is an essential part of any balanced diet. A deficiency in potassium can cause fatigue, muscular weakness, insomnia and depression. The mineral helps regulate the body’s fluid levels and keeps the nervous system functioning properly. It also aids in muscular function and waste removal.

Avocados are full of fiber, which aids digestion and can also help with weight loss because it fills you up!

Fun avocado facts

1) Did you know that avocados only ripen after being picked? 2) Avocados are among the safest foods thanks to their thick skins, which provide protection from pesticides.

Here are 2 of my favorite recipes with avocado: Avocado Greens Salad and Fish (Pacific Cod) & Avocado Sauce.