Combat Diseases and Nutritional Deficiencies with Avocado

Various nutritionists consider avocado one of the healthiest fruits in the world, due to its high content of healthy fats and other nutritive substances that our modern diet lacks. These substances can prevent heart diseases, cancer, eyes disorders and cerebral and degenerative disorders.

Avocado is One of the Most Nutritive Foods

One avocado can provide 33% of the recommended daily dose of vitamin C, 53% of vitamin K, and 28% of potassium as well as similar amounts of vitamin B-complex, vitamin E, magnesium and manganese. Moreover, one avocado provides 50% of the recommended amount of fibers needed per day, much more than any other fruit. Thus, avocado is considered one of the best fruits for those suffering from constipation.

Contains Antioxidants that Fight Cancer and Eyesight Deterioration

Avocado contains a group of phytochemicals called carotenoids, precursors of a powerful antioxidant – vitamin A. Beta-carotene is one of these carotenoids that can fight cancer. A study published in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications in 2013 showed that beta-carotene can inhibit tumor growth related to neuroblastoma, an aggressive type of cancer affecting children.

Other two important carotenoids are lutein and zeaxanthin and are found in high concentrations in human eye macula. They are known for stimulating vision and preventing macular degeneration associated with aging.

Rich in Good Fats for Heart and Diabetes

Avocado contains a mix of fats (monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and saturated) that combat diseases. Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fat that can prevent the onset of serious diseases. A study published in the Nutrition Journal in 2004 showed that oleic acid is helpful in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and reversing negative effects of inflammatory proteins in obese or diabetic persons, suggesting that avocado can help in preventing and treating type 2 diabetes.

Avocado Supports Endocrine Glands

This fruit contains sterols (herbal hormones) with anti-estrogenic proprieties. This means that these sterols block the estrogen receptors inside the cells, reducing the estrogen absorption rates. Avocado plays an important role in the proper functioning of endocrine glands.

No. 1 Fruit for Babies

Some nutritionists place avocado on the top of the list when it comes to beneficial fruits for babies and toddlers, due to its nutritive density, imperative for a baby’s growth and development. Moreover, avocado protects both the mother and the fetus. It provides a quarter of the recommended daily dose of folic acid that helps with the brain and nervous system development of the fetus.