Avocado is a fruit native to Central America and Mexico. It is technically classified as a member of the berries family, although we might agree it is definitely bigger than most of its family friends. Nowadays, avocado trees can be found in essentially all continents, from North America to Australia.
Incredibly rich in monounsaturated fat, avocados typically have 10% of its composition made of this important fatty acid, a vital element to reduce the “bad cholesterol” (low-density lipoprotein, or simply LDL). Not only that, they are also a great source of vitamin K – essential for healthy, strong bones.
Now that you know a bit more about its history and general composition, here are five fantastic facts about avocados, backed by scientific research:
Fact 1: Reduce bad cholesterol (LDL)
You had a preview of this topic in the initial paragraphs of this text, but now let’s talk about real numbers. A Mexican study discovered that the individuals in the experiment group had a reduction of 16% in their levels of LDL with a moderate consumption of the fruit.
Fact 2: Blood pressure regulator
Avocado is also an important source of potassium. You might not know, but potassium is used by your body as a regulator for blood pressure, making proper use of this element when a reduction in blood pressure is necessary. So, as suggested by this Harvard study, if you want some help to push your blood pressure down, stock up some avocados.
Fact 3: Promote weight loss
Some people incorrectly believe that avocados are strictly forbidden if they want to lose weight. Yes, they are fatty, but 75% of its fat is unsaturated, which, in fact, turns out to be a fantastic replacement for other types of food, less healthy and rich in saturated fat. Too good to be true? Check this study for more details.
Fact 4: Combat cancer
As if all the facts above weren’t enough to convince you about the benefits of avocado, here is a very important one: it helps to combat certain types of cancer. This study by the American Association for Cancer Research discovered that the lipids found in avocados will fight damaged cells, whilst preserving healthy ones.
Fact 5: Anti-inflammatory agent
Avocados naturally contain fatty acids rich in omega 3, phytosterols, and carotenoid antioxidants. This might sound like a collection of buzzwords, but these are essential elements that constitute a great anti-inflammatory agent. People fighting arthritis, for example, can specially benefit from this characteristic.
Nutrition Facts
Great! Now that you know that avocados can be found in all five inhabited continents and they rightfully own the title of super food, bring some with you on your next trip to the supermarket. And if you’re looking for ideas on how to use avocados in your next meal, check the recipes with avocado we have published so far.