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, burgers and finding their ways into smoothies and sauces. They have invaded menus across America from the fanciest restaurants to the fast food chains like Subway, Panera or even Burger King.

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

Not only 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 fats found in avocados are monounsaturated—also found in olive oil, nuts, and seeds—actually have cardiovascular benefits. Monounsaturated fats can help with cholesterol control and aid in the prevention of heart attack/stroke.

High in potassium: An essential part of any balanced diet. A deficiency in potassium can cause fatigue, muscular weakness, insomnia and depression. The mineral helps to regulate the body’s fluid levels and keeps 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 as it fills you up!

Interesting Facts: 1) Did you know that avocados only ripen after being picked? 2) Avocados are amongst the safest foods due to their thick skins which provide protection from pesticides.

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