Avocado is a seasonal fruit that is native to South Central Mexico but has been cultivated in other places, including the Philippines, for several decades now. This fruit is actually classified as a berry! This fruit can be eaten by itself when ripe but can also be added to salads, cakes, exotic dishes, and even in ice cream!
Here are 5 surprising health benefits of Avocado
1. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar
While it is a sweet fruit when ripe, avocado is actually great at regulating blood sugar – thanks to its high levels of potassium, oleic acid, and dietary fiber. The fruit is also rich in vitamin E, vital in protecting the body from nerve damage, something that is commonly experienced by patients with diabetes.
2. Helps Prevent Cancer
Due to its high levels of anti-oxidants carotenoids like zeaxanthin, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, alpha-carotene, and beta-carotene, avocado helps prevent cancer which is often caused by damage from free radicals. It is more effective against non-hormonal types of cancer like lung, stomach, and pancreatic cancer.
3. Helps Regulate Blood Pressure
Rich in potassium and oleic acid, avocado lowers blood pressure by keeping cholesterol levels in check, particularly ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol. What’s great about this fruit is that it also raises the levels of ‘good’ HDL cholesterol. It also has high levels of vitamin C which helps strengthen blood vessels.
4. Helps Treat Arthritis
I bet you didn’t know avocado can be used to treat arthritis! This is thanks to its high levels of anti-oxidants such as vitamins C and E as well as phytosterols and monounsaturated, avocado can help reduce inflammation.
5. Helps Prevent Birth Defects
Did you know that avocados have around 45 mcg of folate per cup as well as high levels of vitamins B and K? These are important nutrients that help prevent birth defects such as spina bifida in babies.
Sources: Healthiest Food, Authority Nutrition
