The Benefits of Avocados

In the past few years the avocado has gained a great deal of attention and praise for being such a great fruit. Enough can't be said on how wonderful avocados can be for your health and the benefits of this fruit are multiple.

Avocados contain mono and polyunsaturated fats, these fats are the good kind, which benefit the heart. They also contribute to the development and growth of the central nervous system and brain. A serving of avocado contains about 20 vitamins and minerals, including vitamins E and C, folate, fiber, potassium, iron, beta carotene and lutein.

They also contain many phytonutrients, which can help prevent many chronic diseases. The beta-sitosterol contained in avocados can help maintain healthy levels of cholesterol and eaten in place of other unhealthy fats, avocados can assist in a calorie-reduced diet to achieve or maintain a healthy weight.

Avocados can serve as one of the first foods given to babies. The consistency makes them easy for them to eat and it is a very healthy food for growing babies as well. For adults, avocados are a good source of potassium which can help in preventing strokes, osteoporosis, kidney stones and high blood pressure.

Not only is avocado good for your health, but it also makes a great ingredient for all kinds of cooking. It is wonderful on salads and as a side dish. There are numerous recipes that include avocados and the possibilities are endless. With their buttery taste, avocados can enhance the flavor of just about anything you cook it with.

As you can see avocados are a great food, not only do they taste good but they are wonderfully healthy for you as well. Make sure you include them in your diet on a regular basis and you will undoubtedly reap the benefits of this great food.

Sources:
http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/minerals/potassium/
http://www.avocado.org/healthy-living/nutrition
http://www.nutritiondata.com/facts/fruits-and-fruit-juices/1843/2