Avocados...

Top ten health benefits of every millennial's favourite fruit!

  1. Avocados are nutrient rich:
    Avocados are a great source of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and potassium. They also provide lutein, beta-carotene, and omega-3 fatty acids.
  2. Healthy for the heart:
    Avocados contain 25 milligrams per ounce of a natural plant sterol called beta-sitosterol. Regular consumption of beta-sitosterol and other plant sterols has been seen to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
  3. Great for vision:
    Avocados contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two phytochemicals that are especially concentrated in the tissues in the eyes where they provide antioxidant protection to help minimize damage, including from ultraviolet light.
  4. Osteoporosis prevention:
    Half of an avocado provides approximately 25 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K. This nutrient is often overlooked, but is essential for bone health.
  5. Cancer:
    Adequate intake of folate from food has shown promise in protecting against colon, stomach, pancreatic, and cervical cancers. These phytochemicals have also been shown to decrease chromosomal damage caused by cyclophosphamide, a chemotherapy drug.
  6. Healthy babies:
    Folate is extremely important for a healthy pregnancy. Adequate intake reduces the risk of miscarriage and neural tube defects.
  7. Lower risk of depression:
    Foods containing high levels of folate may help to decrease the risk of depression because folate helps to prevent the build-up of homocysteine, a substance that can impair circulation and delivery of nutrients to the brain.
  8. Improved digestion:
    Despite its creamy texture, an avocado is actually high in fiber with approximately 6-7 grams per half fruit. Eating foods with natural fiber can help prevent constipation, maintain a healthy digestive tract, and lower the risk of colon cancer.
  9. Natural detoxification:
    Recent studies have shown that dietary fiber may also play a role in regulating the immune system and inflammation.
  10. Antimicrobial action:
    Avocados contain substances that have antimicrobial activity, particularly against Escherichia coli, a leading cause of food poisoning.

Coded by Gemma O'Sullivan 💻