You can benefit so much from the vast treasures of nature that there is absolutely no need to depend on artificial supplements in order to stay healthy. The pear-shaped avocado, also called the ‘alligator pear’ due to the eerie resemblance to bumpy-skinned alligators, is one such wonder fruit in Mother Nature’s treasure trove. It has become increasingly popular among health-conscious individuals around the globe as there is greater awareness about nutritional value and health benefits of this super fruit (which, by the way, is a berry!). Given below are five vital benefits of avocados.
Reduction in cholesterol:
Many individuals across the world are prone to serious heart diseases. One of the most important health benefits of this pear-shaped fruit is that it causes significant reduction of cholesterol levels in an individual. A research conducted with the help of eight human-controlled trials proved that it increases the good cholesterol levels in humans, while reducing the levels of harmful cholesterol. As a result, the risk of heart disease can be prevented to a great extent by its daily consumption of avocados.
Protection from cancer:
Studies conducted on some isolated cells in the body led to some interesting findings about avocados and their effectiveness in cancer prevention. Extracts from the fruit were shown to prevent the growth of cancer cells, while they also reduced side-effects in humans who were going through chemotherapy. Considering the fact that a high proportion of deaths is due to cancer, we believe it is only prudent to include a fruit that is proven to possess cancer-protection properties in one’s daily diet.
Good for eyes:
Avocados contain the nutrients Zeaxanthin and Lutein, both of which are immensely beneficial for the health of your eyes. Elderly people can reduce the risk of cataract and degeneration of macula, a minuscule central part of retina, by regular intake of avocados.
Increased absorption of nutrients:
As you need nutrients in order to maintain a healthy body, you also need something that can absorb those nutrients, so that they can be better utilized. Different types of vitamins like A, D, E, and K, along with certain antioxidants need to be mixed with fat, so that your body can absorb and utilize them. Addition of avocados in salads can increase the rate of nutrient absorption in a human body.
Relief from arthritis:
Arthritis plagues a large number of individuals in many parts of the world, especially the aging population. Avocados can reportedly reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis. Research is still on to establish whether this amazing fruit can produce this effect all by itself.
A 100-gram serving of an avocado supplies various types of vitamins and minerals to a human body. They include the vitamins K, C, B5, B6, and E; and the minerals Potassium, Iron, Phosphorous and Magnesium. You can imagine the health benefits that such abundance of nutrients would bring to your body.
An important aspect of the fruit is that it is a neutral-tasting fruit and hence can go well with a wide range of dishes, as our avocado recipes collection will show you. Whatever your idea of enjoying it, we recommend that you do not ignore an avocado.