by Lynette Crawford

Created on: March 09, 2009   Last Updated: March 16, 2009

The Avocado also known as the Alligator Pear; nicknamed the Butter Pear; in Aztec ahuacatl'; and known by its scholarly name Persea Americana - is a perplexing fruit. Thus far, in light of its nicknames, an avocado doesn't sound very appetizing, does it? Let's look at its puzzling facts. A medium avocado contains 30 grams of fat which is approximately equivalent to the fat content of a quarter pound burger. Now, you are thinking with all that fat it probably tastes good, right? But you know that with all that fat, it is probably about as healthy as the burger, correct?

Well, here you would, in fact, be wrong. Don't misunderstand, avocados taste wonderful, but, unlike the burger, the avocado's fat is almost entirely monosaturated fat the good' fat! It is oleic acid to be exact, which has been shown in study after study to lower cholesterol and harmful LDL cholesterol (up to 16%) and raise the healthy HDL cholesterol (around 11 %). Oleic acid is also recognized as a breast cancer fighter. Not only are avocados, rich in oleic acid, but they are also a great source of carotenoids, which are well-known for defending against prostrate and oral cancer.

Avocados are a also a great source of potassium a mineral proven to regulate blood pressure and guard against heart attack and stroke. Another heart healthy bonus is the highly regarded nutrient, folate. Avocados provide a good supply of fiber. In addition this fruit is packed with Vitamin K essential for bone health. They are also full of Vitamin B6 needed for cell metabolism and function. Vitamin C, which supports healthy bones, teeth and blood vessels, is also found in the nourishing avocado.

With all these health benefits, let's add some to your diet. "No", you say, "I don't know anything about picking out one, much less adding them to my diet." Well, now that you have all the health data, the eating is easy. A ready to eat, ripe avocado is slightly soft to the touch. A firm avocado will ripen in a day or two when placed in a brown paper bag at room temperature. The inner flesh is the delicious edible portion (not the peeling or the pit). It has a rich, creamy consistency with a mild nutty taste. A serving is two tablespoons or 1/6 of the avocado.

Adding avocados to your healthy eating plan is simple as well as beneficial. Use it as an addition to your salads, add it into salsa, add slices to your sandwich instead of mayonnaise, top your tacos, garnish your black beans or refried beans, or make some delectable guacamole.

You now know the avocado facts what's not to love about the awesome, appetizing avocado? Pick up one at the market today and start reaping the healthful benefits of this amazing fruit!

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