Avocados are one of today’s trendiest superfoods. From avocado toast to chips with guacamole, this rich and creamy fruit is a great addition to any menu.
What makes avocados so popular and why are they celebrated across cultures? Let’s peel back the avocado’s tough exterior and see what lies beneath.
5 Reasons to Eat More Avocados
They are Rich in Healthy Fats
Avocados contain five grams of monounsaturated fats (the good kind). The majority of the fats in your diet should come from monounsaturated and polyunsaturated sources. Thankfully, more than 75% of the fat in avocados are these “good” fats, which:
- Lower cholesterol
- Reduce the risk for heart disease
- Help the body absorb other nutrients
- Improve cognition and memory
- Reduce the risk of depression
They Help with Digestion
Each avocado contains about 10 grams of fiber. Natural fiber keeps you feeling full for longer periods of time, making the avocado a great snack or meal addition. Fiber also maintains a healthy digestive track, prevents constipation and reduces the risk of developing colon cancer.
They are Versatile
Avocados can be eaten many different ways. Here are a few healthy meal and snack ideas to help inspire your next dish:
- Stuff it – Halve your avocado and remove the pit. Using the half that had the pit in it, stuff the avocado with your choice of topping: egg, tuna, chicken, vegetables, fruits, etc. Depending on your topping, eat the avocado fresh or baked in the oven.
- Spread pureed avocados on whole grain toast.
- Use them in place of butter or mayonnaise as a binder ingredient.
- Add avocado chunks to soups and salads.
- Use avocado as a topping on burgers, sandwiches and hot dogs.
- Make guacamole or a healthy avocado-based veggie dip.
- Put avocado in your smoothie for a creamy texture.
They are Nutrient Powerhouses
Avocados are chalk full of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that support the body. You’ll find vitamins C, B6, B5, K and E, folate, potassium and others. As a bonus, they are low in calories and don’t have any cholesterol or sodium.
They are Good for Your Skin
The abundance of fats, vitamins and antioxidants in avocados can help your skin stay healthy and hydrated. They also help fight redness, flakiness, breakouts and inflammation while improving your skin’s elasticity and overall health.
Learn More about Avocados
For more on avocados, click here to see health benefits, storage and preparation tips, recipes and more from the Obesity Action Coalition, Producer of the Your Weight Matters Campaign.
