Wonders of Adding Avocado in your Diet

Have the best time enjoying in this peak season the richness and creamy texture flavor of avocado!

Avocados are often called nature’s super food with their fantastic health benefits. It is one of the most nutritious and versatile fruits in the world that is an excellent source of heart-healthy fats, Vitamins C, E, K, and B6, and other nutrients. Avocado has a long fruiting season from May to September.

Here in the Philippines, avocado is mainly used as a dessert fruit. It is often eaten with milk and sugar but never as a component of a vegetable salad like in other countries. This is because avocado lacks the sweetness or flavor present in other fruit like mango, banana, and pineapple to which the Filipino palate has been accustomed.

Here are some of the health benefits of avocado:

• Avocados are the best source of omega-3 fatty acids, phytosterols, and plant hormones such as beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the body’s internal inflammation.
• It has high digestive fibers and very low carbohydrate content which helps reduce weight.
• Avocado contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, known as good fats. That help maintains healthy cholesterol levels to keep our heart arteries and veins healthy.
• It is a good source of minerals, especially potassium that keeps your blood pressure stable that helps prevent the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.
• One of the best fruit rich in antioxidants and a high amount of Vitamin A that is beneficial for the eyes.
• Avocado is rich in Vitamin C and Vit E giving skin a natural glow. It has high levels of beta carotene that protect skin from various damaging effects of the sun.

The above advantages are just a few of the wonders of avocado. As delicious as it would be, it should be eaten in moderation. Eating beyond your energy requirements will result in weight gain. Note that half a piece of avocado per day is what an average person needs.

Also, keep in mind Kumainment No 1: Eat a variety of food every day as no single food can provide you with all the nutrients your body needs. (ND II Karen F. Abe, RND)