Avocado is a favorite fruit of many. The flesh has a rich, distinct flavor and smooth, creamy texture. Although it has been marked as higher fat content than most other fruit (80 percent of its calories come from fat), the fat is mostly healthy, monounsaturated fat, similar to that of olives. Hass variety of avocado is the most common variety used. There are many benefits of eating avocado which is pear-shaped fruit can grow up to 8 inches long and may weigh up to two pounds.
The avocado is popular for its rich, creamy texture and mild flavor. The avocado or Persea Americana is a fruit can be used in tasted in different ways.
What is avocado:
The avocado tree is native to Mexico. The name avocado is derived from the Aztec word, “ahuacatl”. The avocado tree does not tolerate freezing temperatures, and thrives in tropical, subtropical climates without frost. About 95% of the avocado production in the United States occurs in southern California, mostly in San Diego Country.
How is avocado used:
The avocado can be used in either savory or sweet dishes. It is very popular in green salads and sandwiches, adding a unique flavor. Avocado is commonly used in a dip, such as guacamole, or as a spread on tortillas or toast. In Brazil and some Asian countries avocados are frequently used in ice cream and, occasionally added to other desserts. In Mexico and Central America, avocados are served in soups or salads or mixed with rice. The avocado can be eaten mixed with other fruits in a fruit salad. Avocado oil is also available as a cooking oil.
Benefits of eating avocado:
Normally, green is not that common color among fruit. But avocado, honeydew and kiwi fruit belong to small group of green fruits. There are many benefits of eating avocado. Here are they –
1 Nutritional value of avocado:
Avocados are a source of vitamins C, E, K and B6 as well as riboflavin, potassium, magnesium, beta carotene and omega-3 fatty acids. Besides avocado is marked as a higher fat content which mostly healthy, monounsaturated fat which slows the breakdown of carbohydrates and thus helps to keep the blood sugar levels stable.
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2 Healthy for heart:
A number of clinical studies have shown that avocado consumption promotes healthy blood lipid profiles and supports cardiovascular health. Patients with elevated cholesterol levels who consumed a diet rich in avocados for a week showed a 17% decrease in total serum cholesterol levels. In this way avocados help the heart to keep healthy.
3 Protecting against cancer:
Phytochemicals from avocado protect against cancer by selectively inducing cell cycle arrest, inhibiting tumor growth, and inducing apoptosis in precancerous and cancer cells. Research shows that intake of avocado reduced the risk developing colon, stomach, pancreatic and cervical cancer.
4 Great for eye-sight:
Avocados contain substantial levels of the arotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin that concentrate in the macula of the eye. They provide antioxidant protection to help minimize damage, including from UV rays.
5 Great for bone health:
Avocados are rich source of potassium, folic acid, vitamins B6 and K, boron and copper. They also are a good dietary source of vitamins C and E. It also contain up to 1% omega-3. The nutrient profile is similar to that of nuts, such as almonds. Thus taking substantial avocados with its nutrient values support the bone health.
6 Help in digestion:
Avocados contain high fiber. Eating the fruits like avocados rich in fiber help in preventing constipation and thus keep the digestive system intact.
Conclusion:
Avocados contain many beneficial healthy components like vitamins B6 C, K, E, good fat, rich source of potassium, folic acid, variety of carotenoids, arotenoids lutein etc. Thus it is certain that there are many benefits of eating avocado like protecting against heart disease, decreasing eye-sight and promoting gut health. Besides, it can be consumed in many delicious ways.
