Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Updated : September 25, 2014 4:19 PM IST
Avocados are a good source of healthy fats and antioxidants, in addition to containing high levels of potassium, fibre and various vitamins like vitamin C, E, K and B-complex. Hass avocado is the commonly available variety of this fruit which is widely used in salads, food preparations and as a healthy snack. Here are the top seven health reasons why avocado is gaining popularity among health food fanatics in India
It regulates blood pressure
Avocados are high in potassium and low in sodium content, which helps regulate the electrolyte balance in the body and controls blood pressure levels. It is also found to contain a fatty alcohol, which plays a key role in decreasing high blood pressure levels in the body.
It helps in weight management
Being loaded with proteins and fibre, avocados provide instant and leave you feeling satiated long after. Even though they are high in calories, they play a vital role in controlling your weight due to the presence of unsaturated fats (healthy fats).
It prevents cancer
Avocados are rich source of phytochemicals that are found to exhibit chemo-protective characteristics and thus, play an important role in the prevention of cancer. The presence of potent antioxidants like glutathione, vitamin C and vitamin E along with carotenoids makes this fruit anti-carcinogenic in action.
It protects against inflammation
Due to the presence of healthy beneficial nutrients like omega 3 fatty acids, phytosterols, carotenoids and vitamins, avocados are regarded as a perfect natural aid to treat inflammation. This fruit is considered as a healthy food, as it not only protects the body cells from inflammation, but also flushes out the harmful free radicals from the body.
It is good for cardiovascular health
Avocados are rich in vitamin E and several studies have proved that a high intake of dietary vitamin E lowers your risk of coronary heart disease by around 30 40%. [1] The presence of healthy unsaturated fats like monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and poly unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in this fruit promotes healthy blood lipid profile.
It aids in healthy skin
It is due to the high levels of vitamin E (a powerful antioxidant) in addition to other potent antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin in avocados that play a role in maintaining healthy skin and good complexion. This fruit is also found to protect the skin from the harmful UV radiation and it aids in healthy ageing.
It exerts a protective effect on the eyes
Avocados contain high levels of mono unsaturated fats (MUFA) that are found to protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration. The antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin contribute to healthy eyes by improving absorption of carotenoids from foods.
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