by Woody Woodhouse

Created on: March 07, 2009   Last Updated: March 16, 2009

Why don't you 'Ave 'n Avo!

Derived from the Aztec word 'Ahuacati' the colloquially known Alligator pear, because of its shape and leathery skin, is not only scrumptious but a wonderful source of health benefits.

There are endless amounts of health benefits associated with avocados, so much so the Guinness book of records listed them as the most nutritional fruit in the world! There are over 25 essential vitamins and minerals contained within the avocado which can be used effectively within a weight loss/management program.

Some of the many benefits include:

Essential vitamins A, B, C and E (including niacin and riboflavin) as well as copper, zinc, magnesium and potassium all of which are vital for day to day functioning of the body. Potassium is also thought of as being a beneficial treatment of arthritis and hemorrhoids. Adequate intake of potassium can also help to guard against circulatory diseases, like high blood pressure, heart disease or stroke

They are cholesterol and sodium free.

One cup of avocado has 23% of the daily value for folate, a nutrient important for a healthy heart.

Gram for gram, Avocado contains more fibre, folate, niacin, thiamine and riboflavin than any other commonly eaten fruit in the world.

Contain monosaturated fats (which are the good kind) making them a delicious and nutritious alternative to many snacks, spreads, dips and toppings. Oleic acid is a prime example of the monosaturated fat found in avocado helping to lower cholesterol.

Avocados contain many antioxidants, such as the E Vitamin, which prevents the dangerous low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol from being deposited on artery walls and lowering the chance of heart failure. They also contain glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, shown to block thirty different carcinogens.

Rich in Folic acid, which are believed to reduce the risk of heart disease and in some instances cancer.

Contain a high water and fibre content, increasing the feeling of fullness and aids in weight loss.

Finally, avocados will greatly increase your body's ability to absorb the health-promoting carotenoids that vegetables provide making them an essential item in a balanced diet.

Overall, avocados are a healthy fruit that contain many health benefits, endless impressive credentials along with a unique and creamy taste.

So next time you go to butter your bread, try an avocado spread instead and think of the many health benefits you're giving your body with the rich and vibrant green sheen of an avo!

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