Awesome Avocado Attributes

Avocados are making frequent appearances in meal plans lately. This nutrient-packed food often receives the title of “super-food,” but what is it specifically that makes avocados a powerful and nutritious part of any diet?? Check out 5 reasons you should be incorporating more avocado into your meal plan!

1. Excellent Source of Healthy Fat: We often hear avocados referred to as “good fat,” but what exactly does this mean? Avocados are high in monounsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, which is the same fatty acid in olive oil, thought to be responsible for its heart health benefits. Oleic acid has been associated with reduced inflammation, which is beneficial for the heart and body as a whole.
2. Packed with Potassium: Avocados are high in potassium, an important mineral that tends to be lacking in people’s diets. Potassium functions as an electrolyte and helps the body regulate fluid, send nerve signals, and regulate muscle contractions. Bananas are often thought of as high-potassium food, but avocados contain more potassium per serving than a banana!
3. Full of Fiber: Avocados, like other plant foods, are high in fiber, which can help with weight loss and help control blood sugar spikes. Fiber acts like a sponge in the digestive tract, soaking up water and slowing the absorption of nutrients to help you feel full longer.
4. Nutrient-Rich: In addition to being a good source of fat, potassium, and fiber, avocados are high in Vitamin K, Folate, and Vitamin C. And because of the high-fat content, avocados help with the overall absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamins A, and D, K, and E.
5. Works in Any Diet! Avocados are plant-based, which means they can be incorporated into any diet avoiding meat or animal products. They are also considered low-carb, because of the high fiber content. Although they are higher in fat, these are healthy essential fatty acids that promote health and make you feel more satiated, which may result in overall lower calorie consumption.