HOW GOOD IS AVOCADO GOOD FOR YOU?

From delicious tasting to toast toppings and smoothies, the avocado is known for its healthy nutrients. Find out here more about this superfood.

The avocado has become an incredibly popular food among health-conscious individuals these last years. It’s often referred to and known as a delicious superfood, which is not surprising given due to its healthy nutrients and properties.

The avocado is the fruit found from the avocado tree, scientifically known as Persea Americana. This fruit has high nutrient values and is often added to various dishes due to its good rich texture, including our very own favourite guacamole. In the overall, the avocado's popularity is down to its rich, creamy texture and mild flavour.

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Avocados are native to South and Central America countries, and they are now also commercially produced in the US, Israel, and Australia. Sadly the climate restricts avocados growing in countries like the UK and Norway.

There are many types of avocado in the world that vary in shape and colour — from pear-shaped to round and green to black. Avocados can also weigh anywhere from 218 grams up to 1.5 kg. The most common and popular variety is the Hass avocado.

NUTRITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

According to BBC Good Food, avocados are an excellent source of monounsaturated fat and Vitamin E. However, their downside is that they also are high in calories due to the high-fat content. Half an avocado, for example, counts as one portion of your five-a-day meal. For those who are managing their weight, they might want to consider limiting the number of avocados they consume per day.

Nevertheless, avocados have more soluble fibre than any other fruit and they also contain a number of useful minerals such as iron, copper, and potassium and are a good source of the B vitamin, folate. Here are some of the most abundant nutrients found in a single serving:

• Vitamin K

• Folate

• Vitamin C

• Potassium

• Vitamin B5

• Vitamin B6

• Vitamin E

Another interesting fact about avocados is that they contain more potassium than bananas. According to the website Healthline, several studies show that having a high potassium intake helps with high blood pressure. Recent studies have also shown that the fibre found in avocados also play a positive role in regulating the immune system and inflammation found in the body.

AVOCADO OIL

While avocado oil is usually known for its uses in cooking, it can also contribute to skincare. The oil is a very important ingredient in many types of creams, moisturisers, and sunscreens. When left on for short periods of time and rinsed off with warm water, avocado oil can keep skin hydrated without leaving an oily residue. This may reduce the risk of acne, redness and inflammation.

Of course, there are few risks to using avocado oil, but anyone with a preexisting skin condition should speak with a doctor before trying a new home remedy.

Fernanda XOX