We tend to avoid fats but some fats are good for health and Avocado is one such fruit that contains plenty of healthy fats. It is also called alligator pear due to its shape. It is green, pear-shaped, and has bumpy skin like an alligator. The fleshy pulp inside the fruit is eaten while the skin and seed are thrown away.

Avocado is rich in folate, magnesium, potassium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3), pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K. All these nutrients are essential for the body and help in fulfilling the nutritional needs of the body.  These also help to fight various diseases.

Benefits of Avocado

Regulates Cholesterol-

Avocados contain beta-sitosterol, a plant substance, which helps in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Regularly consuming avocado help maintain and regulate healthy cholesterol levels.

Cancer-

The nutrients present in avocados may treat cancer. The folate content in avocados may lower the risk of prostate and colon cancer. 

Osteoporosis-

Avocado contains vitamin K which boosts your bone health by slowing down bone loss and warding off osteoporosis. Researches on oil extracts of avocados show they can reduce the symptoms of osteoporosis.

Depression-

Folate helps to block the growth of a substance called homocysteine in the blood which slows down the flow of nutrients to your brain leading to depression. Avocados are rich in folate which may help keep the symptoms of depression away.

Digestion-

Avocados are loaded with fiber, especially insoluble fiber. These help to remove the waste material from the body. Fiber helps to keep the bowel movement regular which further prevents constipation.

Detoxification-

The fibers in avocado facilitate regular bowel movements, which are essential for the removal of toxins in the form of bile and stools. Various studies have shown that dietary fiber may also play an important role in keeping the immune system healthy.

For reducing weight-

Avocados contain a good amount of fiber, which can make you feel full and gives you satisfaction after eating. This further prevents overeating and you would not eat more than what is required to fill your appetite.

Protection from chronic disease-

High fiber intake helps to lower risks of coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, obesity, and certain gastrointestinal diseases. It also helps to regulate blood pressure and enhance insulin sensitivity.

Inflammation-

Avocado contains Vitamin E which helps to lower inflammation in the boy. Since chronic inflammation can result in many diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and arthritis. Consuming avocado is very beneficial in this.

For eyes-

Antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin in avocados are good for the eyes.  These protect the tissues in the eyes from damage due to UV rays and help prevent cataracts and macular degeneration.

Side-effects of Avocado

• Avocado can reduces milk production and even damage the mammary gland in the worst cases.
• Since avocado contains high fats it may lead to obesity.
• Avocado contains estragole and anethole which can damage the liver.
• People with a sensitive digestive system may experience discomfort in their stomach with avocado consumption.
• People with sensitive skin may experience skin allergies such as swollen skin, eczema, and itching.
• Avocado lowers good cholesterol, which is essential for the body.
• People with latex intolerance should avoid avocado.