April 28, 2018
Avocados form part of my family’s daily meal plans as their health benefits are never-ending.
The Wonders Of Avocados
Have a quick look at the initial few:
- Healthy Fats: Avocados are in fact a stone fruit which provide a substantial amount of healthy monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), which not only provide satiety but have been shown to reverse insulin resistance and regulate blood sugar levels
- Naturally Nutrient-Dense: Avocados are a great source of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium and potassium. They also provide lutein, beta-carotene and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Healthy for the heart: Avocados contain 25 milligrams per ounce of a natural plant sterol called beta-sitosterol. Regular consumption of beta-sitosterol and other plant sterols has been seen to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
- Great for vision: Avocados contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two phytochemicals that are especially concentrated in the tissues in the eyes where they provide antioxidant protection to help minimize damage, including from ultraviolet light.
- Osteoporosis prevention: Half of an avocado provides approximately 25 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K, which is in fact essential for bone health by increasing calcium absorption and reducing urinary excretion of calcium.
- Improved digestion: Despite its creamy texture, an avocado is actually high in fibre with approximately 6-7 grams per half fruit. Eating foods with natural fibre can help prevent constipation, maintain a healthy digestive tract, and lower the risk of colon cancer.
- Natural detoxification: Adequate fibre promotes regular bowel movements, which are crucial for the daily excretion of toxins through the bile and stool.
Try including them a few times a week in the following ways:
Soft avocados make great guacamole or dip, while firmer avocados are great for slicing and adding to a salad or a sandwich. Use avocado instead of mayonnaise in chicken or egg salad. It can easily replace bananas in morning smoothies to give them that extra thickness and that creamy texture. Or simply mash it and spread it on toast instead of butter.
You won’t regret it!
