benefits of avocado

Avocados are also considered as one of the healthiest foods in the planet because they contain in excess of 25 essential nutrients, including vitamin A, B, C, E, & K, copper, iron, phosporus, magnesium, and potassium. Avocados also contain fiber, protein, and several beneficial phytochemicals such as beta sitosterol, glutathione and lutein, which may protect against various disease and illness.

Avocado contains vitamin B6 and folic acid, which help regulate homocysteine levels. High level of homocysteine is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Avocado also contains vitamin E, glutathione, and monounsaturated fat, which help in maintaining a healthy heart.

Avocados are rich in a compound called beta sitosterol which has been shown to be effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels. According to a study, patients with mild hypercholesterolemia who included avocados in their diet for 7 days had 17 percent decrease in total blood cholesterol levels, a 22 percent decrease in both LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels, and a 11 percent increase in HDL (good cholesterol) levels.

Avocados are also a great source of potassium, which helps in controlling blood pressure levels.avocado that can help with the condition include its vitamin C for strengthening blood vessels and capillaries and improving immune function for diabetics.

Avocados are rich in folate, a B vitamin commonly known as folic acid. One cup of avocado provides about 23% of the recommended daily value of folate. The high amount of folate in avocado is essential in the prevention of birth defects, such as neural tube defect and spina bifida.

Phytonutrient compound found in avocados, such as polyphenols and flavonoids have been found to have anti inflammatory properties, thereby reducing the risk of inflammatory and degenerative disorders.

Avocado is an excellent source of carotenoid lutein, which known to help protect against age related macular degeneration and cataracts. Avocados provide nearly 20 essential nutrients, including fiber, potassium, Vitamin E, B vitamins and folic acid.

The monounsaturated (good) fats in avocados can reverse insulin resistance which help to regulate blood sugar levels. Avocados also contain soluble fiber which keep a steady blood sugar levels.

The high levels of folate in avocados may also protect against stroke. A study has shown that individuals who ate a diet rich in folate had a lower risk of stroke than those who did not.

Avocados contain glutathione, a powerful antioxidants that helps fight free radicals in the body. Avocado benefits also include protecting your skin from wrinkles and other visible signs of aging with its antioxidant carotenoids, vitamin E which helps guard against photo aging from sun exposure and vitamin C which is involved in the creation of elastin and collagen for maintaining your skin s elasticity and firmness.