Avocado: Is it Nature's Superfood?
By Donna Kostiew
It’s funny how new information can sprout up unexpectedly and you think to yourself, “why did I not know that all of these years?” That happened to me the other day while talking about a recent vacation and trying alligator for the first time. My friend asked my daughter if she ever had an alligator pear and we both looked at her with curious expressions, never hearing that term before. She then went on to tell us it was another name for an avocado. Well, I learned something new that day, but I have always known that avocados, or alligator pears, are one of nature’s most excellent superfoods. So no matter what you call them, you definitely will want to consider adding them to your diet.
Health Benefits of the Avocado
Although avocados are relatively high in calories and fat, don’t take them off your shopping list just yet. Avocados are one of the best foods you can eat because they are packed with nutrients and heart-healthy compounds, and they are so easy to enjoy. Here are some of the reasons why you should try to include them in your diet.
- Promotes a healthy heart - Avocados boost heart health and help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. In addition to the cholesterol-fighting properties, they are also filled with folate and potassium, both of which help keep your heart healthy.
- Promotes a healthy brain - The folate, omega-3 fatty acids, and Vitamin E in avocado have been shown to be extremely beneficial to brain health by protecting against, and helping to prevent, certain diseases from progressing.
- Treats arthritis - The anti-inflammatory properties of avocados are an incredible benefit, leading them to be one of the best foods for reducing the inflammation in tissues, joints, and muscles.
- Helps with pregnancy - Folic acid is critical with helping the fetus develop its brain and other vital organs -- and avocados are packed with it. They also help the mother overcome her morning sickness because they contain the B vitamins that help to reduce nausea and vomiting.
- Lowers the risk of cancers - The nutrients in avocados have been shown to help protect against prostate and breast cancers.
- Improves immune system – Avocados provide plenty of Vitamin C, which helps to enhance the body’s immune system and its ability to heal itself.
- Aids in digestion – Avocados are fairly high in fiber content and eating foods that contain fiber naturally help maintain a healthy digestive tract.
From guacamole to smoothies to replacing the typical sandwich spread, it’s no wonder why so many people find it easy to add avocados to their diet. Their versatility is endless, and the same can be said about the health benefits they provide too.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, seeyour local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lakewood, Colo.
