A Heart Healthy Fat

Avocados are high in fat, but don’t let that deter you from consuming them.  They are made up mostly of monounsaturated fat, specifically oleic acid, which is an omega 9 fat that is also found in healthy items such as olive oil, and many nuts and nut oils.  This type of fat is high in beta-sitosterol, which is known to lower cholesterol by blocking its absorption in the body.  Monounsaturated fat helps to lower levels of the bad LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and has also been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. One study showed an average of a 17% decrease in LDL cholesterol after only a week of eating avocados every day!  That’s pretty powerful!

Monounsaturated fat is not the only fat present in the avocado, there is also some saturated fat, but it is a small amount (like 3g out of 20g) and it’s a clean whole food source rather than from an animal, which means less toxins.  Avocados are also a great source of fiber, which is essential to maintaining a healthy digestive system.  There are between 11 and 17 grams of fiber per avocado!  Lastly, if you are concerned about fat and calories, it might be worth it to know that the California avocados contain less fat and calories than the Florida Avocados.  Either way the avocado is a very important heart protecting and overall healthy fruit; yes it is a fruit.  Avocados are best consumed as guacamole, a sandwich spread, or just a straight-up snack with a little sea salt, yum!

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