Avocado is best known for its creamy texture and is commended as a nutrient-dense food. While botanically, they are berries, they are considered fruits are given their exceptionally high nutritional value. In addition to the high amount of fat and calorie, they also boast of fiber, potassium, and Vitamin E. Increased consumption has to do with increased avocado health benefits.
Avocado Health Benefits
Improved Gut Health
High fiber content is one advantage that affirms avocado health benefits for anyone looking to improve their gut health. The fruit comes with about 13.5 grams of fiber which plays a pivotal role in feeding good bacteria in the gut.
Good bacteria are crucial in degrading and fermenting ingested fiber to produce short-chain fatty acids. In return, the fatty acids enhance the gut cells’ and lining’s health. Therefore, eating a good amount of avocado goes a long way in strengthening the gut lining. It also lowers fecal bile acid, which causes gut inflammation.
Folate is an important compound during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Its demand increases during pregnancy to avert the risk of complications. It is also an important source of Vitamin C and B6 when breastfeeding.
Perfect for Weight management
While avocados have a high-fat content making them high in calories, studies have shown they necessarily don’t increase the prospect of being overweight. Eating at least one avocado a day can help prevent weight gain, therefore, a proper weight management tool.
One of the key health benefits of avocado is its high fiber and monounsaturated fat content. Any diet rich in fiber tends to increase the feeling of feeling full most of the time. Reduced appetite reduces the prospects of eating most of the time, helping regulate weight.
On the other hand, monounsaturated fats help decrease fat storage in the body.
It’s proven that people who eat more fiber tend to maintain healthier body weight compared to lower fiber diets.
Enhances Heart Health
As a nutrient-dense fruit, support for heart health is one of the avocados’ key health benefits. The vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats found in avocados help in keeping the cardiovascular system healthy. In return, it might help in preventing heart disease.
Its high-fat content of 60% monounsaturated helps protects against heart disease. It is also an excellent source of potassium and folate, all of which benefit the heart. Getting the necessary amount of potassium can protect against hypertension and stroke. Studies have also shown it can help lower blood pressure.
Alongside enhancing heart health, avocados are a rich source of Vitamin E and carotenoids that help keep the eyes healthy.
Protects against Inflammation
Avocado contains bioactive compounds, including vitamins C, phenolic, and E. The compounds are best known for their antioxidant and neuroprotective qualities. Consequently, taking Avocado from time to time can help protect against oxidative effects and inflammation synonymous with many chronic illnesses.
Additionally, taking avocado increases the number of antioxidants in the blood, enhancing cognitive function and improving health. Some of the oils in Avocados, including oleic acid and linoleic acid, should be part of any diet for anyone looking to manage cholesterol levels.
Bottom line
The array of avocado health benefits makes it one of the best fruits for anyone looking to live a healthy life and avert the risk of other diseases and complications. Eating avocados is a sure way of getting much-needed vitamins and minerals like potassium and folate.
