Did you know? The first Hass avocado tree is still alive and producing fruit. Maybe if we ate more avocados, we would live longer and healthier lives, just like that tree! And while you may not sprout into an avocado tree simply be eating too much guacamole, it does mean you will be nourished inside and out from enjoying the health benefits of avocados.
One of the great benefits of avocados is that they provide the body with much-needed vitamins and minerals that help fight off disease and maintain good health. Avocados are also a great source of fiber and monounsaturated fat (a healthy fat that your body needs). Some of the research that points to the health benefits of avocados dates back to 8,000 B.C. from Central and South America.
When you bring avocados home, remember that keeping them in the refrigerator will slow down the ripening process, while putting them in a paper bag with a ripe apple will speed up the process.
So why eat avocados? Here’s some great reasons to munch on these delectable delights:
Vitamins- While avocados do have a high caloric count (around 320 calories), they are loaded with vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6. All of these great vitamins mean that when you eat avocados with other foods, you can actually improve your consumption of nutrients up to 400%!
Healthy Fats- Avocados are also high in monounsaturated fats. So don’t worry about all of those calories because the healthy fats will keep you full and satisfied for several hours, which helps reduce your urge to snack!
Good for Your Heart– In addition to keeping you full all day long, the fat content of an avocado is great for protecting against illnesses such as heart disease. The primary fatty acid in avocados, oleic acid, has been shown to improve cardiovascular health.
Protein! – Avocadoes provide all 18 essential amino acids necessary for the body to form a complete protein. While some proteins are hard to absorb, the proteins in avocados are easily and readily absorbed into the body.
Reaping the benefits of avocados is not only good for your health, but a delicious treat for your taste buds. It’s no wonder why people have loved avocados for centuries! We sure do.
There are so many ways to enjoy the health benefits of avocados. Try adding avocado slices to your salads and soups, dips, smoothies, burgers and sandwiches. Of course, fresh guacamole is the ultimate way to experience the benefits of avocados.
Here at Casa Blanca Mexican Restaurants, we take pride in offering the freshest, best ways to enjoy avocados. Stay healthy and happy, and stop by one of our 3 family restaurants in Massachusetts for some authentic Mexican dishes topped off with all of the benefits of avocados!