The Benefits Of Avocados

-Who would have known this creamy, green deliciousness was so good for you!-

Up until a few years ago, I had no idea the health benefits that an avocado offered. In fact, unless you were serving me chips and guacamole at a Mexican restaurant, avocados were not on my dietary radar at all. I’m not exactly sure why I stayed clear of this delicious fruit for so long, but my assumption is that is has something to do with it not being incorporated into my childhood diet along with the ‘scary’ green color of the food.

Since joining the paleo community and learning about all of the benefits this food offers (not to mention tasting an avocado in all of its natural glory), avocados have become a staple food in my household. They are so versatile and can be added to any dish, yet my favorite way to eat them is simply with sea salt & cracked pepper… so good! I make sure that my cart has a minimum of 4-5 avocados each week and sometimes this doesn’t even last me!

Here are just a few of the reasons why you should be incorporating this creamy, green amazing-ness into your diet too!

1. Avocados are a well known for their high nutritional value

-An avocado is a great source of healthy fats as well as most vitamins and minerals including: Vitamin K, Vitamin C, all Vitamin B’s (except B12), potassium, folate, and magnesium.

2. Avocados have been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease

-According to the research, regular consumption of avocados may lead to decreased LDL levels, cardiovascular inflammation, and blood triglycerides (all of which are heart disease risk factors) as well as increasing levels of HDL in the blood.

3. Avocados aid in the absorption of plant based nutrients

-Some nutrients are ‘fat-soluble’ meaning: in order for them to be properly absorbed & utilized by the body, they must be combined with a fat. A few good examples of these types of foods are kale, spinach, and carrots. These foods contain high amounts of carotenoids, however they are also low in fat. In order for the body to properly absorb the carotenoids and maximize the benefits of these foods, a healthy fat such as an avocado must be eaten with it. Ex: add some avocado to your next salad to get the best nutrient value from your vegetables!

4. Avocado consumption has been linked to higher satiety levels

-The high fat content of the avocado leaves you feeling satisfied much longer than if you were to consume a high carbohydrate meal, which in turn may lead to decreased cravings and better weight control.

5. Avocado consumption is associated with a more health conscious population

-Research has shown that those who consume avocados on a regular basis were found to not only eat more fruits and vegetables, but to be healthier overall than those who do not consume the fruit.

Please keep in mind this is only a few of the MANY health benefits the avocado offers to us.

Now it's your turn!

Do you eat avocados regularly?

If so, what is your favorite way to incorporate them into your diet?

If not, do you think you will start including them on your weekly grocery lists?

XOXO -brit