Avocado is a trendy kitchen item today, especially in the US. Many people wonder if it is a fruit or a vegetable. Well, the famous avocado is actually a fruit! That’s right! And this very fruit is packed with nutrients that bring various health benefits. What good can avocados bring to your health, especially during menopause? Read more to find out.
The Avocado
Avocado (Persea Americana), also known as alligator pear or butter fruit, is actually a berry. Researches proved that avocado is incredibly high in good fats, as well as other vitamins and minerals that aid in overall health. An ounce or an equivalent of 2 – 3 thin slices of the avocado contains the following nutrients:
- 2 grams of Dietary Fiber for better digestion
- 27 mcg of Folate or Folic Acid that maintains cell regeneration and mood regulation
- 2 mg of Iron that improves oxygenation
- 9 mg of Magnesium that helps with the relaxation and contraction of the muscles
- 150 mg of Potassium for blood pressure regulation
- 6 mg of vitamin C for better skin, bone, immune system and tissue health
- 3 mcg of Vitamin K for optimal blood health
- 59 mg of Vitamin E for smoother skin and a healthier immune system
What about the avocado calories? Many of you may ask this question. Well, according to a study, one half (1/2) of a Hass variety avocado yields 112 KCal. This number actually accounts for an increase in food satisfaction. As a result, an individual may have less desire to eat after avocado consumption. If you are in the middle of weight management, try adding avocado to your meal and see the result!
Health Benefits of Avocado
- Decreases the risk of heart problems, as evidenced by a study. Also helps in preventing stroke and diabetes.
- Has anti-inflammatory properties, omega 3 fatty acid, that reduce the degree of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
- Decreases risk of osteoporosis with the help of Vitamin D and Vitamin K that increase Calcium absorption.
- Improves eye health with antioxidants; prevents macular degeneration and cataract.
- Fights off Anxiety and depression through its folate content! If your menopause brings mood swings, anxiety and depression, fight it off by eating avocados!
- May reduce risks of breast cancer. A health post suggested that Avocados can prevent such disease and has positive effects on cancer prevention in the stomach, cervix and colon.
- Brings healthier and smoother skin! Provides hydration, treats sunburns and prevents wrinkles. When combined with Vitamin B12, avocado oil can be an effective remedy for psoriasis.
- Promotes healthier weight. It has very low carbohydrates and high fiber content, which helps with weight control.
Possible Risk
Allergies in avocado’s latex do exist in some individuals. Symptoms of allergy occur as coughing, stuffy nose, wheezing and edema. Once you experience these signs, it is suggested to remove avocados from your diet for some time to see if the symptoms disappear. If signs persist or get worse, consult a physician immediately.
Simple Avocado Preparations
The best thing about avocados is they are very easy to prepare and eat. You can just simply open one, get the seed and scoop out the fruit to eat! Within a few minutes, you can taste and enjoy a healthy avocado. You can make our own avocado recipes as well! Here’s a video to start off with some simple methods to prepare this amazing fruit.
4 Easy and Healthy Avocado recipes you can make at home! (8.26 minutes)
You may not believe it, but did you know that you can use avocado as a face mask? Check out how good it can be for your skin and get your own home-made skin solution today! Check this video out.
How to Make an Avocado Face Mask (2.29 minutes)
Do you agree with the avocado’s health benefits? How do you prepare your avocados? We’d like to hear from you! Please share it with us below.
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Thanks :
Love avocado!
Agree? 🙂
Cool !