Nutritional Value of Avocados

The avocado is unrivaled by any other fruit when it comes to nutritional value. Many people have negative misconceptions about avocados mainly because of the fruit's high fat content. Avocados are used for various purposes, including cosmetic reasons, in baby food and as a source of fiber and antioxidants.

Nutrition Facts

• One avocado of 201 grams has 322 calories, 29 grams of fat, 17 grams of carbohydrates, 14 milligrams of sodium and 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins

• Avocados are a good source of dietary fiber. They contain vitamin A, vitamin K, Vitamin C, Folate, Iron and calcium.

Benefits

• Avocados contain both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. According to the American Heart Association, these fats can help lower blood cholesterol levels, when eaten in moderation.

  The antioxidants in avocados are believed to help in the prevention of cancer, arthritis, heart disease, and eye cataracts; the fruit may also delay the aging process.

  When dieting, avocados can be beneficial because they are high in fat. The fat content is believed to make dieters feel full quicker and eat less saturated fats and sugar. Monounsaturated fat is also claimed to speed up the basal metabolic rate.