Guac lovers, rejoice! Boasting some 20 essential minerals and vitamins, avocados are among the most nutritious superfoods out there. In fact, its impressive nutrition profile has earned it the title of the “olive oil of the Americas.”

Reasons to eat more avocados

Avocados are one of the oldest food plants endemic to Mexico, where it was also used as an ingredient in remedies and natural medicines. In fact, the Aztecs used the fruit’s leaves, seed, seed oil and fruit pulp to treat all sorts of ailments, from coughs to high blood pressure.

Modern research has since attempted to determine if there are truths to these reported health benefits. Turns out, there are. Take a look at some of the top science-backed benefits of the avocado.

Supports brain health

Avocados are one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E that support brain health. Omega-3s, in particular protect brain cells from inflammation and cellular damage that can lead to dementia. Vitamin E also protects brain cells from oxidative stress due to free radicals.

Reduces cholesterol

Omega-3s are healthy, monounsaturated fats that our bodies need, as opposed to bad fats like trans fats. In fact, just one cup of avocado slices provides up to 32 percent of our recommended intake of omega-3s. These fats help reduce cholesterol buildup in the arteries that increase the risk of a stroke or heart attack.

Enhances nutrient absoprtion

Avocados also promote better absorption of nutrients from other foods. This is important because certain vitamins, being fat-soluble, require fat to be absorbed. Eating avocados ensures our bodies are able to process these vitamins better.

Eases joint pain

Monounsaturated fats like omega-3s can also be found in healthier plant-based oils like extra virgin olive oil, sesame oil and flaxseed oil. These oils have been linked to reduced inflammation and joint pain due to their anti-arthritic activities.

Maintains vision

Avocados are abundant in plant compounds called lutein and zeaxanthin. These compounds are essential for protecting the retina from inflammation and cellular damage. Lutein and zeaxanthin also reduce the risk of macular degeneration that can lead to blindness.

Promotes digestion

Fiber-rich foods like avocados do a great job at promoting digestion and metabolism. Fiber helps regulate bowel movement as well, thus reducing the risk of digestive issues like bloating, constipation and diarrhea.

Aids in weight loss

Omega-3s also assist in weight loss. The reason for this is that our bodies store these fats as fuel sources instead of the kind of fat that contributes to weight gain. The fiber in avocado also promotes feelings of fullness for longer periods, which can help curb cravings.

Supports heart health

There are just a handful of foods that contain more potassium than a banana, and avocados are one of them. Potassium is an essential mineral needed to regulate blood pressure, thus reducing the risk of a stroke or heart attack.

Supports fetal development

Avocados are one of the richest sources of folate, a B vitamin essential for fetal development. As such, pregnant women ought to eat more avocados. Folate also reduces the risk of birth defects and complications.

Strengthens immune functions

Avocados also boast a considerable amount of vitamin C, an essential immune-boosting nutrient. As such, eating more avocados can lead to better immune health and stronger protection against infection and disease.

Avocados are one of the healthiest superfoods out there. Eat them as part of a balanced diet to maximize their numerous health and medicinal benefits.

Sources:

ScienceDaily.com

CMS.HerbalGram.org

LifeHack.org