Avocados are loaded with nutrients. Photo: Thought Catalog//Unsplash
Avocados are delicious. They compliment toast. They enhance tacos. They pair well with chips. They make smoothies creamier. And they’re a solid snack on their own. Where many of our favorite foods are lacking in the health department, avocados are loaded with nutrients and make the perfect pre- or post-surf snack. Here are seven reasons to keep eating everyone’s favorite fruit: the avocado.
They’re Nutrient Rich
Avocados are loaded with nutrients. Avocados contain manganese, copper, potassium, magnesium, folate, pyridoxine (B6), pantothenic acid (B5), niacin, riboflavin (B2), vitamin K, vitamin E, and vitamin C.
They’re Heart Healthy
According to Medical News Today, 100 grams of avocado contains 76 millegrams of beta-sitosterol, a natural plant sterol. Regularly consuming beta-sitosterol has been found to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, which is crucial for a healthy heart.
They’re Good for the Gut
Often referred to as the “second brain,” gut health is extremely important. An avocado contains roughly 14 grams of fiber. Fiber is essential for good gut health because it helps promote the growth of healthy bacteria.
They’re Full of Fat
Fat isn’t always a bad thing. Avocados contain five grams of monounsaturated fat and one gram of polyunsaturated fat per serving — these fats are “good.” Fats are essential as they are a clean source of fuel, they’re the body’s basic building block, and they help the body absorb vitamins.
They’re Rich in Antioxidants
According to Healthline, avocados are loaded with bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, and phenolic compounds. Carotenoids found in avocados include lutein, a-Carotene, and B-Carotene, which have strong antioxidant effects and work to protect against oxidative damage and in turn, chronic diseases.
They’re Good for Vision
Carrots aren’t the only food that are good for the eyes. Avocados contain lutein and zeaxanthin, photochemicals that are present in eye tissue. These phytochemicals provide antioxidant protection while working to minimize damage from UV light.
They’re Versatile
Avocados are easy to add to most meals and work well with different types of cuisines. Get creative and use avocados in soups, salads, smoothies, and whatever else you can think of to reap the benefits of this incredible superfood.
