Most would agree that toasted corn tortilla chips, a crispy fish taco or a cool dish of ceviche are all good reasons to enjoy avocado. I would have to agree, but beyond their ability to be the perfect finishing touch to our Mexican and Mexican-inspired dishes, there are numerous nutritional benefits that will encourage you to enjoy avocados every day.
1. Increased absorption of antioxidants – When about 1 cup of avocado is added to a salad containing carrots, spinach and romaine lettuce, absorption of important carotenoid antioxidants is increased by 200% – 400%. A similar increase in absorption of carotenoids occurs when avocado is combined with tomatoes, such as in salsa. These carotenoid antioxidants are vital to healthy cells.
2. Anti-inflammatory properties – The fat of an avocado is packed with three inflammation fighting phytosterols that help to keep our inflammatory system in check. While inflammation is a natural, healthy response from our bodies, chronic inflammation is more stress than our system can handle. Arthritis sufferers should definitely be encouraged, as the avocado’s anti-inflammatory abilities have been best demonstrated as in cases of Arthritis.
3. Heart Support – The avocado’s role in cardiovascular health requires further study but recent research is promising. We do know that omega-3 fatty acid, oleic acid, folic acid and B-6 vitamins in the avocado provide significant heart and blood support.
4. Blood Sugar Regulation – A few factors account for the avocado’s blood sugar regulation; it’s low in carbohydrates, low in sugar and is low on the glycemic index. 7 – 8 grams of fiber doesn’t hurt either.
If you’re not convinced yet that avocados are power packed with health benefits, check out our list of resources for more information. For ideas on how to incorporate the amazing avocado into your everyday diet, view our list of recipe ideas.
Recipes Ideas:
· http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20395687,00.html
· http://allrecipes.com/recipes/fruits-and-vegetables/fruits/avocados/
Sources:
· http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/01/17/avocado-benefits.aspx
· http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=5
· http://www.avocadocentral.com/nutrition/avocado-nutrition-health-facts-label