Healthy Diet Base Better choice for better life!
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Avocado is the fruit of the flowering plant that belongs to the family Lauraceae. This tropical fruit is native to Mexico and Central America. However, it is cultivated in other countries without frost. Although avocado is high in calories, it is one of the finest superfoods available in the market right now. So what makes avocado such an amazing fruit? In today’s post, we are listing down the amazing health benefits of avocado:
Reduces Risk of Cancer
A study published in the Seminars in Cancer Biology journal noted that avocados are high in phytochemicals. These plant-based nutrients inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce cell death (apoptosis) among malignant in both pre-cancerous and malignant cell lines.
In addition, consuming avocado is beneficial for patients who are undergoing chemotherapy. This fruit contains vitamin E and glutathione. These nutrients replenish the body’s level of antioxidants, protecting the patients from infectious diseases. Studies show that a low level of glutathione in the body makes healthy cells vulnerable to the effects of chemotherapy.
Avocado is also loaded with anti-inflammatory agents that reduce the risk of mouth, skin, and prostate cancer.
Lowers Cholesterol Level
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats lowers the bad cholesterol level in the body. Avocado happens to be a rich source of both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These beneficial fats protect the heart and arteries from fatty plaques. Consuming avocado regularly reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
A 1-oz serving of avocado contains about 3 grams monounsaturated fat and 0.5 grams of polyunsaturated fat. This fruit is also loaded with beta-sitosterol. This chemical lowers blood cholesterol level while increasing good cholesterol. In another study published in the Archives of Medical Research journal, people who eat avocado every week will see a 22% decrease in bad cholesterol. The study involved giving a portion of avocado among patients with high cholesterol.
Boosts Weight Loss
Apart from good fats and essential vitamins, avocado is also packed with dietary fiber. In fact, a medium-sized avocado yields about 6 to 7 grams of fiber. Fiber protects from cardiovascular diseases and certain cancer. These beneficial fats prolong the feeling of fullness and enhance the feeling of satiety, preventing overeating and snacking. The fiber in avocado also regulates bowel movement, which contributes to efficient digestion and faster metabolic rate.
Nutrient Dense
Avocados are incredibly nutrient dense! This fruit is rich in vitamin A, K, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, C, and E. It is also loaded with folate, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, zinc, and phosphorus. All these nutrients keep the cells and organs healthy. Vitamin A, C, and E do double duty as antioxidants. These vitamins protect the cells from oxidative stress, which causes accelerated aging and chronic diseases. The beneficial fats in avocado also improve skin, hair, and nail health.
Even better, avocados contain ZERO sodium and bad cholesterol. It is also high in complex carbs that energize the body. This is the reason why avocado makes the perfect diet food. It is high in nutrients but low in sodium. It boosts energy by supplying the body with complex carbohydrates.