The Mighty Avocado
The avocado is a rich source of vitamins and minerals and it tastes delicious too. Although avocados can sometimes get a bad rap for being a little on the higher side of fat, they have so many diverse benefits that eating them in moderation shouldn’t be dismissed. If of course you are on a strict weight loss diet you may want to forgo this delicious treat until such time as you are in the maintenance phase, but for all other readers, continue reading and learn about just how much the mighty avocado can do for you.
Avocados grown in rich soils in warm climates around the Mediterranean, particularly in countries like Italy, Spain and Portugal. These fruits are also grown in Mexico and South America, including Peru and Brazil. Some avocados also grow in Australia, New Zealand, India, China and South Africa. Anywhere where the temperature remains above five degrees at all times of the year has the potential to grow these delicious treats.
Some of the most important benefits of avocados include the following:
-Avocados protect the heart from cholesterol related diseases and can dramatically reduce the likelihood of suffering from cardiovascular disease.
-Avocados are increasingly being found to help prevent the incidence of breast and prostate cancers. A certain substance found in the avocado has been shown to kill cancer cells and scientists are now studying this same substance’ beneficial effects on the tissue around the heart.
-The potassium found in avocados is a great blood pressure regulator
-Avocados are potent antioxidants
-Avocados include a number of essential vitamins and minerals including: Calcium, Potassium, Copper, Sodium, Vitamin C, K, and Folic Acid.
-Avocados can lower blood cholesterol
-Avocados can be used as a treatment for skin disorders and are incredibly soothing in a skin mask.
For all of these reasons the avocado deserves our praise and admiration. Eating half an avocado on a rye cracker or even by itself is a great way to gain these benefits and get some good fats into your diet. As always, moderation is key, so be sure not to eat more than 2 or 3 a week.
Joe trains 5 times a week at Bally’s Gym in Orange County. A long-time fitness enthusiast, he recommends that you buy ephedrine and buy ephedra from Astronutrition.