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Have You Tried Avocados?

by Melissa Spicer (913 views)
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Avocados get lots of buzz about their potential as a superfood, and it's easy to see why. Avocados have a slew of heart-healthy nutrients and other compounds that make them a top choice if you're looking for a tasty treat that is also good for you. While avocados are high in fat, that's actually a good thing – because it's monounsaturated fat, which is a type of good fat (yes, fats can be good) that helps to lower bad cholesterol when consumed in moderation.

Hold the Sugar, Pass the Fiber

Avocados are relatively low in sugar, making them ideal for people who are monitoring their sugar intake. They're also a source of fiber, so eating an avocado makes you feel full and satiated for a longer time while also helping speed along your digestive processes. In fact, in one study, people who ate just one-half of an avocado with their lunch reporting that they didn't feel a craving for food for at least three hours.

Vitamin- and Mineral-Packed Food

When you eat avocados, you're giving your body a lot of the things it craves, including nearly 20 vitamins and minerals. Key among them are:

  • Potassium, shown to help control blood pressure, and thus promote cardiac health
  • Lutein, which benefits eye health and supports good vision
  • Folate, which helps cells repair themselves for better overall health
  • Vitamins C and E, which ward off infection and disease
  • Natural plant chemicals, which are through to stave off the development of cancer

How Do You Eat Them?

There are so many different ways you can incorporate avocados into your daily diet. Many people use them to prepare homemade guacamole for family taco night. You can also puree them and use them as a substitute for butter in your favorite cookie recipe. Another alternative is just to slice them up and serve them on a sandwich, just like you would tomatoes.

No matter how you slice (or puree or dice) them, avocados have a lot of yumminess and nutritional benefits to offer.