Like a wide variety of fresh fruits, avocados are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, but unlike most fruits which are high in natural sugars, Avocados are not. Instead, they are valued for their oil which is roughly 70% monounsaturated, like the kind you find in extra virgin olive oil. Monounsaturated fats have a number of health benefits like improving risk factors for heart disease, lowering LDL (low-density lipoprotein) while maintaining healthy HDL (high density lipoprotein), improving blood vessel function, stabilizing blood sugar, supporting healthy insulin levels, and much more.
Avocado oil has numerous health benefits as well as great flavor and, unlike olive oil, it has a high smoke point making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers. Its high smoke point means it won’t breakdown and burn as quickly as many other oils.
For best results, choose good quality, cold-pressed or extra virgin avocado oil in a darkened glass bottle. It is buttery and delicious, plus it’s rich in carotenoids and other antioxidants as well as chlorophyll and vitamin E. It’s wonderful as is or mixed with ghee or coconut oil for cooking, baking, sautéing and pan-frying. And, it’s wonderful to use raw, drizzled over steamed or roasted vegetables, toast or popcorn, or added to salad dressings, dips and spreads, hummus, mayonnaise, and more. Just remember to use it along with a variety of healthful fats and oils.