14 health benefits of avocados and 5 reasons to avoid them

Avocados: The creamy, healthy superfood that’s taking toasts by storm!

Avocados are quickly becoming one of the most popular superfoods in the world, and it’s no surprise why. Not only do they have a rich, creamy texture and a unique, delicious flavor, but they’re also packed with healthy fats, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Avocados are a fruit that is native to Mexico and Central America. They are a member of the Lauraceae family, which also includes cinnamon, camphor, and bay laurel. Avocados are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, vitamins C and K, and potassium. They are also a good source of lutein and zeaxanthin, which are antioxidants that can help protect the eyes from damage.

Avocados are available all year round and can be eaten fresh, cooked, or frozen. They are a popular ingredient in many dishes, including guacamole, salads, and sandwiches.

Here are some of the health benefits of avocados:

• Improved heart health: The healthy fats in avocados can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Improved blood sugar control: The fiber in avocados can help slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help improve blood sugar control.
• Weight loss: Avocados can help you feel full and satisfied, which can help you eat less and lose weight.
• Improved skin health: The antioxidants in avocados can help protect the skin from damage caused by the sun and pollution.
• Reduced risk of cancer: The healthy fats and antioxidants in avocados can help reduce the risk of some types of cancer.

Avocados are a healthy and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are a good source of nutrients and can help improve overall health.

Here are some tips for choosing and storing avocados:

• Choose avocados that are firm but not hard. Avoid avocados that are soft or have bruises.
• Avocados can be stored at room temperature for a few days. Once they start to ripen, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Avocados can also be frozen for up to 6 months. To freeze avocados, remove the pit and scoop out the flesh. Mash the flesh and store it in a freezer bag or container.

Benefits

1. Heart healthy.

2. Lowers cholesterol levels.

3. Has anti – inflammatory properties.

4. Rich in lutein that fights macular degeneration and cataracts.

5. Regulates blood glucose levels.

6. Prevents birth defects.

7. Fights cancer.

8. Reduces stroke

9. Fights free radicals.

10. Rich in anti – ageing properties.

11. Increases nutrient absorption.

12. Cleanses intestine and removes bad breathe.

13. Aids in treating psoriasis and improves skin glow.

14. Improves healthy weight gain. Source: http://www.undergroundhealth.com/15-amazing-health-benefits-of-eating-avocados/

Interactions of Avocado:

1. Avocado can interact with warfarin. Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-890-avocado.aspx?activeingredientid=890&activeingredientname=avocado

2. Avocado may be allergic to susceptible individuals.

3. Avocado may show cross – sensitivity with melons, bananas, peaches, tomatoes, potatoes, chestnuts and kiwi fruits.

4. Cross sensitivity has been documented with natural rubber latex, also called latex- fruit syndrome. Source: http://www.drugs.com/npp/avocado.html

5. MAOIs can interact with overly ripe avocados for their tyramine content. Source: http://www.holistic-online.com/herbal-med/hol_herb_med_reac.htm

6. Avocados can interact with anti – inflammatory drugs such as naproxen and Ibuprofen.

7. Avocados can interact with blood pressure lowering medications.

8. Avocados can interact with garlic and gingko biloba.

9. Avocados can interact with foods rich in beta-sitosterol.

10. Can interact with cholesterol lowering agents like fish oil, red yeast, niacin and guggul. Source: http://www.healthline.com/natstandardcontent/avocado#H9

Health conditions to avoid Avocado:

1. People on MAOI anti – depressants must avoid avocados. Source: http://www.holistic-online.com/herbal-med/hol_herb_med_reac.htm

2. People on anti – coagulants must avoid avocados. Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-890-avocado.aspx?activeingredientid=890&activeingredientname=avocado

3. People with known allergy to avocados must avoid it. Source: http://www.drugs.com/npp/avocado.html

4. Avocados must be avoided by people with chronic kidney disease. Source: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002442.htm

5. People with latex allergy must avoid avocados. Source: http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Latex_allergy

Photo by Foodie Factor: https://www.pexels.com/photo/sliced-avocado-fruit-557659/

NOTE: The information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified medical professional. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please consult a doctor. We do not endorse any specific products or treatments, and we do not claim to cure or treat any medical conditions. The information on this website is based on our own research and experience, and we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. View the full disclaimer here