Avocados are fruits that grow on trees in warm climates. The avocado tree was first discovered in Mexico. Contrary to most fruits, avocados are not sweet. The fruit has a soft creamy green flesh with 1 large seed in the middle. The taste is often described as nutty or buttery. Avocados are generally eaten in salads and made into oils or condiments and dips, such as guacamole. Avocados are a staple food in many cultures because of the benefits they provide. 

Nutrition Facts 

Avocados contain a high amount of monosaturated fat. Monosaturated fat is a type of unsaturated fat and is considered a “healthy fat” when eaten in moderation. Incorporating unsaturated fats into your diet is important for proper cell function and studies have shown that when these types of fats are consumed, individuals tend to have a lower risk of heart disease and high cholesterol problems. 

In addition to the cardiovascular benefits, avocados are jam-packed with vitamins and minerals. One avocado contains vitamins B-6, C, E, K and has more potassium than a banana. In addition, an avocado is an excellent source of magnesium, beta-carotene, and Omega-3 fatty acids. 

You may even lose weight when you add avocados to your diet. Many people feel fuller longer when they eat them. Avocados are chock full of antioxidants that can minimize free radicals from wreaking havoc on your metabolism. 

Preparation Ideas 

Avocados are quite versatile and easy to incorporate into your diet. If you like them raw, you can slice them thin and add them to your sandwich or salad. You can smash them up and put it on toast topped with some salt and tomato slices. You can chop them up and add them as a garnish to your chili. Or you can have a taco night and whip up some guacamole. 

Others prefer to cook with avocados. You can add them to your scrambled eggs. Those who may be eating low carbohydrate diets may carve a whole in the middle of the avocado slice and put an egg in the middle to make an “egg in the basket.” Top it with cheese and it’s delicious. 

Soup is another option. You can test your culinary skills by making a chilled avocado soup. This makes a perfect lunch during the hot summer months. 

Stuffed Avocados are also quite popular since you can make a variety of stuffings depending on your palate preferences. 

Whatever way you prepare your avocados, know that you are adding a Superfood to your diet. There are hundreds of ways you can incorporate avocados into your diet to reap the nutritional benefits they provide.