8 Proven Benefits of Avocados

8 Proven Benefits of Avocados

Avocados are delicious and add flavor and texture to everything from salads and sandwiches to dips and even smoothies. However, did you know avocado is also one of the healthiest foods for you? This fruit (yes, fruit) contains essential vitamins, nutrients and heart-healthy fats.

While you are suddenly daydreaming about guacamole, let’s discuss some additional benefits of avocados, all backed by scientific research!

Filled with Nutrients

Unlike most fruits that contain carbohydrates and sugar, avocado consists primarily of healthy fats. It is often referred to as a superfood because avocado contains a wide variety of nutrients, including 20 different vitamins and minerals. Some of the most abundant nutrients in avocado include:

- Vitamin K
- Folate
- Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Vitamin B5
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin E

Nutritionally, avocados have 160 calories, 2 grams of protein and 15 grams of healthy fats. And of its 9 grams of carbs, 7 come from fiber, making it a low-carb food. Avocados do not contain cholesterol or sodium and are low in saturated fat.

Loaded with Heart-Healthy Fats

Avocado is considered a high-fat food because over 75% of its calories come from fat. The difference is that avocado contains a type of monounsaturated fatty acid that has been linked to reducing inflammation and defending against many cancers and diseases. This type “healthy fat” is good for you and your weight-loss efforts. Try our Omega-Slim Essential Fatty Acids for high-quality omega-3 fats that can increase inch loss, improve mental focus and help lower your cholesterol levels.

Packed with Fiber

Fiber is a nutrient that exists in large amounts in avocado. Fiber is indigestible plant matter that can assist with weight loss, regulate blood sugar and lower your risk of many heart diseases. Nearly 25% of the fiber content of avocados is soluble. Soluble fiber is known to deliver good bacteria into the intestine, allowing our bodies to perform optimally. Soluble fiber also slows down digestion, delays the emptying of your stomach and contributes to making you feel full, which may help control weight. If you  still aren't receiving enough fiber, consider a high-quality fiber supplement such as Slim-Ensulate Essential Fiber Supplement!

Lower Triglyceride Levels

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America. High cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure and other blood marker levels are linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that avocado can reduce cholesterol levels significantly, lower LDL by nearly 22% and reduce blood triglycerides by up to 20%. Avocados will also help to increase HDL levels or good cholesterol!

Contain High Levels of Potassium

Many people aren’t receiving adequate potassium in their everyday diets. This important nutrient serves many vital bodily functions. Surprisingly, avocados contain more potassium than bananas! Studies show that a high potassium intake has been linked to reducing blood pressure, and lowering the risk of heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure. You can also include Slim-Assist Calcium and Magnesium Supplement into your regimen for increased potassium intake!

Can Help with Weight Loss

Avocados are considered a weight-loss friendly food. Eating a healthy portion of avocado has been proven to keep people fuller longer and prevent overeating at subsequent meals. As mentioned earlier, avocados are also a low-carb, high-fiber food, which is why SlimGenics includes avocados as a healthy fat on your Integrated Food List!

Good for Vision

Avocados contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two phytochemicals that are concentrated in the tissue of the eyes. These powerful antioxidants provide protection to help minimize damage from outside interferences.

Improve Detoxification

Because avocados contain high levels of fiber, they help to facilitate better digestion and can help prevent constipation, maintain a healthier digestive tract and lower your risk of colon cancer.

Many Uses

Avocados can be used in place of mayonnaise on sandwiches, as a salad topper or to make a heart-healthy dressing. You can also use avocado in place of mayo or sour cream in your favorite dips or to add a smoother texture to your morning shakes!

Here are some tips for picking and keeping avocados:

- Avocados should feel slightly soft when ripe.
- Cut with a ceramic knife – metal actually accelerates the oxidation process.
- Add lemon juice to your avocado to keep it from oxidizing too quickly.
- No lemon or lime? Oil can also be used as a buffer to oxygen.
- Store in an airtight container.

The benefits of avocados are abundant. Try incorporating more healthy fat in your daily food plan by adding avocado to your meals or replacing unhealthy ingredients with this heart-healthy choice!

Resources

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270406.php


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