We feast on avocado toast and admire trendy avocado smoothies, but do we really know what an avocado is? And how is it that it is designated as the healthiest fruit?
Avocado: An exotic fruit that never ceases to impress us!
Avocado is a unique, creamy and rich stone fruit with a light taste. Scientifically, it is called Persea Americana and is part of the Lauraceae family. Avocados come in several varieties, depending on their color, size and texture. All are native to tropical climates, and when harvested, their texture turns into butter which has become extremely popular. It is also called “Makhanphal” in India.
Nutritional characteristics of avocado.
Avocado is considered a nutrient-dense commodity. They are packed with nutrients such as:
- Fats: Avocados contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered good fats. A link has been established between the consumption of avocados and the reduction of bad cholesterol (LDL) levels.
- vitamins : Avocados are fruits high in vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin K.
- Fibers: The avocado alone provides about 1 gram per tablespoon of fiber, and the whole fruit contains about 10 grams. Avocados are high in digestive fiber.
- Minerals: Avocado is a source of folate, calcium, magnesium and sodium.
- Antioxidants: Avocado is one of the main fruits containing a lot of antioxidants.
The health benefits of avocado.
1: Anti-inflammatory properties:
Avocados have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce internal body inflammation. They are the best source of omega-3 fatty acids, phytosterols and plant hormones like beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol. These substances help keep inflammation under control. The fats contained in this fruit are exceptional, which helps to lubricate the joints and further relieve joint pain.
2: Promote weight loss:
The most widespread benefit of avocados is their ability to promote weight loss. Thanks to the presence of dietary fiber, this fruit is frequently used in the context of weight loss diets. It regulates weight by maintaining satiety longer and reducing calorie consumption. In addition, avocados are very low in carbohydrates, which also promotes weight loss.
3: Maintain heart health:
Avocado contains a natural plant sterol called beta-sitosterol. By regularly consuming beta-sitosterol and other plant sterols, it is possible to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. They also keep the heart’s arteries and veins healthy.
4: Essential for a healthy pregnancy:
Avocados are a good source of folate. Pregnant women should include avocados in their diet, as folate helps the healthy development of the fetus and reduces the risk of miscarriage and neural tube defects.
5: Crystal clear skin:
The avocado is a concentrate of several nutrients such as vitamins, mineral salts, antioxidants and fatty acids. They are mainly rich in vitamin C and vitamin E, which gives your skin a natural glow. In addition to the benefits mentioned above, the avocado has several other advantages, including:
They are beneficial for skin health.
Avocados and their oil have benefits for the skin due to their high content of vitamin C, which promotes the formation of collagen in the skin to maintain its firmness and elasticity.
They help protect your eyes.
The fruit also contains carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin. These substances have been shown to keep eyes healthy over time and help prevent macular breakdown, the leading cause of vision loss with age.
Avocados are excellent fruits at all levels of the diet. They are full of various nutrients that make them super fruits. They are useful in different forms: you can eat them with toast, make a delicious smoothie and use their oil for face care or hair care.