The Superfood Avocado

This green-skinned, pear-shaped fruit that is made into guacamole is more than just a culinary delight. Avocado offers numerous health benefits which even greater adds to its appeal. As an ingredient, avocado is also very flexible and can be made into soups, ice creams, and even shakes.

The following are some of the avocado health benefits

Benefits of Avocado

Anti-Cancer Benefits - Avocados have numerous phytonutrients which not only prevent prostate cancer but also repair the damaged cells. Many studies have shown that avocado can inhibit the growth of cancerous cells without damaging the healthy cells. The oleic acid in this fruit is effective in preventing breast cancer. They also contain high amounts of vitamin E which protects our skin from cancer causing free radicals

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits - Another important benefit of avocado is its anti-inflammatory benefits. As mentioned earlier, avocado is rich in anti-inflammatory nutrients such as polyphenols and flavonoids. In addition to helping prevent cancer, these anti-inflammatory nutrients also play an essential role in helping prevent inflammatory diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Cholesterol Benefits - Avocados are rich in what is called oleic acid, as well as beta-sitosterol, which are known for helping decrease cholesterol significantly. Experiments conducted showed that avocado can help reduce cholesterol levels by up to 17 percent.

Good for the Heart - With its rich taste, avocado is misconstrued by a lot of people to be fatty and bad for the heart. The opposite, however, is actually true. Avocado is rich is many nutrients which are considered to help combat heart disease such as the following: oleic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B-6 and folic acid. Based on studies, researchers have noted that people who have a folic acid-rich diet are better protected from cardiovascular diseases as compared to their peers.

Helps Regulate Blood Pressure - Avocado is very rich in potassium, containing in fact 30% more than a banana. Consuming the right amount of potassium per day can greatly help protect one’s self from circulatory diseases like heart diseases, stroke, and high blood pressure.

Good for the Eyes - Avocado is rich in carotenoid lutein. Carotenoid lutein is known for combating oxidative stressing, cataracts and eye muscle degeneration. These two eye conditions are often results of aging. Thus, it would be beneficial to introduce avocado to one’s diet as one becomes older in order to avail of its numerous health benefits.

Helps Prevent Birth Defects - The high amount of folic acid in avocado also serves as a protection for pregnant women. Folic acid is said to be essential in preventing birth defects such as spina bifida and neural tube defect.

Bad Breath - Avocado is very effective in stopping bad breath. It also reduces the risk of oral cancer.

Anti-Aging - Being rich in antioxidants, avocado is helpful in preventing aging symptoms. The glutathione in avocado boosts immune systems, slows the aging process, and encourages a healthy nervous system.

Aids Digestion - The nutrients and enzymes in avocado soothes the condition of inflamed mucous lining in the stomach and small intestines. It also improves the body’s ability to absorb carotenoids and nutrients.