Avocados Provide an Avalanche of Benefits
By Brandi Goodman
California Avocado Month arrives in June. This is the perfect time to learn just how many benefits avocados provide. The fruit (yes, fruit!) has become a popular choice for many thanks to its health advantages and unique flavor that can be combined with a number of meals.
Vitamin K
Just one serving of avocado provides 26 percent of the daily value of Vitamin K. This vitamin helps the body regulate levels of blood calcium, improves bone metabolism, and is necessary for blood clotting. Eat more avocados and your body can continue to function as intended.
Folate
Folate helps your body make DNA and allows your cells to divide. This nutrient is especially important for expectant mothers who are working to grow a human life inside of them. Eating one serving of avocado provides you with 20 percent of your daily intake.
Potassium
Eat one entire avocado and you get more than 900 milligrams of potassium. That's more than double what you receive from a medium banana. Potassium helps to prevent muscle cramps and regulates the balance of fluids in your body. You'll prevent muscle fatigue by getting enough potassium in your diet.
Protein
You'll get 4 grams of protein just from eating one avocado. Protein is necessary for the body to repair itself. If you're injured or not feeling well, then protein foods can help.
Fiber
Enjoy one cup of avocado and you'll gain 10 grams of fiber. This is a large amount that isn't usually seen in a lot of fruits. Your digestive system needs fiber to run efficiently. Your blood glucose levels will also rise slower if you eat lots of fiber, preventing your numbers from spiking.
Lowering Cholesterol
Avocados may contain lots of fat, but they can still work to lower cholesterol. This is because the fruit offers mostly good fat. Monounsaturated fat is better for the body and can actually have beneficial effects on the heart. It is saturated fat that you want to stay away from.
During California Avocado Month and every month after, add avocados to your menu for a boost in health. The green fruit with the vegetable-like texture is extremely nutrient-dense and has a lot to offer. It can also be turned into guacamole, which is a favorite dip for chips that many people enjoy. Add it to your eggs, toast, or another meal for a unique flavor.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in St. Petersburg, Fla.