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Health Information for an Avocado

Also known as the Alligator Pear, the avocado has been grown and harvested by Central and South Americans since 8,000 B.C. Native farmers have benefited from eating avocados for centuries, while health savvy individuals have only begun to sing the avocado's praises. Avocados offer many health benefits to those wishing to make dietary changes and improve their overall health and well being.

  1. Low Glycemic Index

    • Avocados contain twenty times the fat of other fruits. Known as monounsaturated fat, this type of fat actually improves health rather than degenerating health. Monounsaturated fat does not adversely impact blood glucose levels, and can actually regulate blood sugar. Since avocados are rich in monounsaturated fat, they benefit diabetics, especially when added to carbohydrate-rich foods like bread.

    Source of Insoluble Fiber

    • Avocados contain high levels of insoluble fiber which assists in weight loss by providing a feeling of satisfaction after eating. This makes you less likely to overeat, which often leads to weight gain. A high fiber diet also helps prevent chronic diseases, including cancer.

    Source of Oleic Acid

    • As a monounsaturated fat, oleic acid may help lower cholesterol levels when eaten. Oleic acid has also been linked to reducing the risk of breast cancer in women. Avocados are an excellent source of oleic acid and can assist in reducing these dangerous health risks when added to any diet.

    Source of Potassium

    • Individuals who eat avocados protect themselves from developing circulatory diseases. Eating potassium has been linked to reducing instances of high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. Even the U.S. Food and Drug Association confirms that diets rich in potassium may lower these risks, especially when combined with a low sodium diet. Considering that avocados contain three times the potassium of one banana, they maximize nutritional value into a smaller serving. The abundance of potassium in avocados ensures that they are a nutritionally beneficial food to add to any diet, especially for individuals at risk of developing circulatory diseases.

    Neutralizes Free Radicals

    • Avocados contain the most vitamin E of all fruits. Vitamin E neutralizes free radicals, known for causing cell damage, making avocados a strong antioxidant essential to the fight against aging and common forms of cancer.

    Source of Lutein

    • Lutein helps fight eye diseases, including macular degeneration, contributing to eye health and preventing blindness.

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