Health Benefits Of Avocados

Avocados are unique type of fruit. Most fruit consists primarily of carbohydrate, while avocado is high in healthy fats. Avocados are characteristically buttery yet subtly flavorful pear-shaped fruits of Central American origin. Unlike most other fruits, they feature high fat content and carry more calories. Nonetheless, they are among the popular fruits having good nutrition profile and health benefiting properties.



MAINTAIN A HEALTHY HEART
The avocado contains vitamin B6 and folic acid, thus helps the body regulate homocysteine levels. High level of homocysteine is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Avocado also contains vitamin E, glutathione, and monounsaturated fat, which help in maintaining a healthy heart.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES
Phytonutrient compound found in avocados, such as polyphenols and flavonoids have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, thereby reducing the risk of inflammatory and degenerative disorders.

REDUCE CHOLESTEROL
Avocados are rich in a compound called beta-sitosterol which has been shown to be effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels. According to a study, patients with mild hypercholesterolemia who included avocados in their diet for 7 days had 17 percent decrease in total blood cholesterol levels, a 22 percent decrease in both LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels, and a 11 percent increase in HDL (good cholesterol) levels.

PROTECT AGAINST CANCER
Many studies have shown that avocado can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer. The oleic acid in avocado is also effective in preventing breast cancer.

REGULATES BLOOD SUGAR
The monounsaturated (good) fats in avocados can reverse insulin resistance which help to regulate blood sugar levels. Avocados also contain soluble fiber which keep a steady blood sugar levels.

SKIN NOURISHMENT
The avocado oil is added in many cosmetics because of its ability to nourish the skin and make your skin glow. It also aids in treating psoriasis, a skin disease that causes skin redness and irritation.

PROMOTES EYE HEALTH
Avocado is an excellent source of carotenoid lutein, which known to help protect against age-related muscular degeneration and cataracts.

PREVENTS BIRTH DEFECTS
Avocados are rich in folate, a B vitamin commonly known as folic acid. One cup of avocado provides about 23% of the recommended daily value of folate. The high amount of folate in avocado is essential in the prevention of birth defects, such as neural tube defect and spina bifida.