3 Major Health Benefits of Avocados
Avocados are delicious—anyone who has ever eaten guacamole can vouch for that. But did you know exactly how healthy avocados are? The answer is very, so take a look at some of the major health benefits of this fruit.
• I Can (Still) See Clearly Now: Carrots have the reputation of being good for your eyes, but did you know avocados can also help your vision? Avocados contain carotenoids called lutein and zeaxanthin, which “have been shown to keep the eyes healthy as we age and may help reduce the risk of macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss as we get older.”
• Healthy Fat: Avocados are considered a healthy fat, which means your body takes longer to digest them, keeping you fuller for longer so you are less likely to snack. Additionally, “avocados are nutrient-packed with over 20 vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients which is especially beneficial if you’re trying to cut calories and keep up with all the nutrition your body needs.”[1]
• High in Fiber: According to Cedars-Sinai, avocados are high in fiber, a necessary element in our diet of which most people just do not get enough. “The recommended daily intake of fiber is 25 grams a day for women and 35 grams for men, with most of us falling short of those goals. Avocado packs about 1 gram per tablespoon, with around 10 grams in an entire fruit.”[2]
It seems avocado toast enthusiasts might be onto something after all! Of course, you should talk to your doctor before starting any new diet or exercise plan, but consider incorporating avocados into your meal plan! They make a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and wraps, as well as a great snack on their own.
[1] Amidor, Toby. “5 Surprising Health Benefits of Avocados.” Food Network, Food Network, 30 Dec. 2014, www.foodnetwork.com/healthyeats/recipes/2014/12/5-surprising-health-benefits-of-avocados.
[2] “In Case You Need a Reason to Eat More Avocado.” Cedars-Sinai Blog, Cedars-Sinai, 29 Sept. 2017, blog.cedars-sinai.edu/healthy-and-delicious-avocado/.