The Avocado Superfood

The avocado is one of the most nutrient packed foods with a long impressive list of nourishing contents. Loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, this fruit also hosts a large dose of heart-healthy fatty acids, and can help lower cholesterol. Make sure to include avocados in your Cinco de Mayo celebration or any other celebration!

Julie Joiner, MA, RD, LD, CDE, a registered dietitian at Phoebe’s Diabetes Care Center, says the first thing that comes to her mind about avocados, is the monounsaturated fats. “Monounsaturated fats are well known as a heart protector, helping to lower bad cholesterol.” She also says that avocados are versatile and easy to incorporate in meals. “Not only do I recommend including them as a spread on toast rather than butter, or to add a creamy touch to salads, they are one of my favorite foods to recommend as a baby’s first food too!”

HEATLH BENEFITS OF MONOUNSATURATED FATS

According to the American Heart Association monounsaturated fats can help reduce bad cholesterol levels in your blood which can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. Avocados also provide nutrients to help develop and maintain your body’s cells. Oils rich in monounsaturated fats also contribute vitamin E to the diet, an antioxidant vitamin most Americans need more of.