Health benefits of avocado

Avocado pear with the botanical name, Persea amairicana, is a common fruit in the country which has become popular among health conscious individuals because of its high nutrients hence, the monicker ‘superfood’.

Also known as alligator pear or butter fruit, it is said to be the only fruit that provides a substantial amount of healthy monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and a naturally nutrient-dense food which contains nearly 20 vitamins and minerals.

According to HealthLine, though avocado is a fatty fruit, it does not contain any cholesterol or sodium, and it is low in saturated fat. “In fact, 77% of the calories in it are from fat, making it one of the fattiest plant foods in existence. But they don’t just contain any fat; the majority of the fat in avocado is oleic acid.”

Oleic acid has been linked to reduced inflammation and been shown to have beneficial effects on genes linked to cancer.

Fat is essential for every single cell in the body. Eating healthy fats supports skin health, enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, and may even help boost the immune system. This fruit is also said to be loaded with fiber which is another nutrient found in relatively large amounts in it. Fiber is indigestible plant matter that can contribute to weight loss, reduce blood sugar spikes and is strongly linked to a lower risk of many diseases.

Some of the fruit’s benefits enumerated by Medical News Today include; nourishment of skin, hair and nails. It is also said to contain lutein, which helps improve the eyes.

Several studies have shown avocado as having high potassium that is linked to reduced blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure.

Studies have also found that a predominantly plant-based diet that includes foods such as avocados can help to decrease the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and overall mortality.

Source:dailytrust.com.ng