Avocado have become a big favorite in my house recently. When I was growing up, avocado was rarely seen in the local shops, but today it’s a very common and, above all, important ingredient, particularly for Friday night tacos …
To be honest, I had no idea just how healthy avocados were when I started eating them, they just tasted so good!
Here are 9 reasons why you should eat avocado more often!
1. Good for your brain
Studies at The University of Illinois showed a link between the consumption of lutein – the natural substance that makes avocados green – and improved mental function.
Lutein also has anti-inflammatory effects on our brain, which can positively improve our cognitive ability. The cognitive ability determines how well we remember things, solve problems and how well we can process information.
2. Full of nutrients
Another study showed that participants who added a couple of spoonfuls of avocado to their salads absorbed significantly more of the nutrients and vitamins that prevent cancer and heart disease, and that strengthen the immune system
The researchers believe that avocado makes it easier for the body to absorb antioxidants from other healthy foods, too.
3. Reduces the risk of heart disease
Avocados have proved to have many positive effects against heart and lung disease, thanks to a low content of saturated fats and high levels of healthy fatty acids.
Eating too much saturated fat increases cholesterol, whereas eating healthier unsaturated fats reduces this. Avocado also contains antioxidants like carotenoids and phenols that can help prevent inflammation and oxidative stress, while improving blood circulation.
4. Reduces sugar cravings
A Norwegian study had several participants eat avocado during every meal. Those who ate avocado felt fuller for longer than those who had no avocado in their food.
Try swapping avocado for your usual salad dressing!
5. Protects your skin
Avocado nutrients do a lot of good for our body, even on the outside. Zeaxanthin is a substance that is present in avocado that works against oxidative UV damage and keeps the skin soft and healthy.
5. Sharper eyesight
Zeaxantin found in avocado fights against age-related eye degeneration and sight problems.
So you should eat up those avocados if you want to keep your eyes in top condition right through old age!
6. Shrinks your waistline
Avocado is healthy in many different ways, and can help people who are trying to lose weight.
Studies have shown that people who eat avocado weigh less and have smaller waists than those who don’t.
7. Contains more potassium than bananas
Potassium is a nutrient that many of us don’t get enough of.
Potassium is required for the normal functioning of the nervous system, blood pressure and muscles. Avocados actually contain a lot of potassium, 14 percent of your daily recommended intake, compared to bananas, that have 10 percent.
8. Avocados contain plenty of fiber
Fiber is a natural nutrient that is found in quite high quantities in avocado. It’s needed to help your stomach and body to work as best they can.
100 grams of avocado contains 7 grams of fiber, which is 27% of your recommended daily intake. Not bad!
9. People who eat avocado are healthier
A study looked at the eating habits and overall health of people who regularly eat avocado.
They analysed data from 17 567 participants in the US and avocado-lovers proved to be healthier than those who don’t eat avocado.
People who eat avocado regularly weighed less, had a lower BMI and significantly less belly fat.
I already knew that avocado was healthy, but I had no idea that it had this many benefits.
The good thing is that avocado is easy to use in many different ways. You can add it to a smoothie or use it to top your chocolate mousse or sandwich.
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