The avocado craze has been blooming for the last few years. We millennials are mad for it.
# Avocadotoast has over 1.1 million images on Instagram alone. We can't stop eating it and we can't stop taking photos of it. It just looks good on photos, doesn't it?
But let's get into the nitty-gritty of avocados.
Avocados are actually a fruit, but I guess most of you knew that already? (It’s okay if you didn't) Avocados are high in calories and have a very high-fat content. But not to worry, it’s the good kind of fat. Avocados are full of monounsaturated fat which have been linked to a reduced risk of developing heart diseases, lowering cholesterol as well as regulating insulin and blood sugar. Along with some great anti-inflammatory properties.
Foods that are high in fat will keep you fuller for longer, but so will fibre. Avocados are a great source of fibre. So by eating some avocado with your meal, you will satisfy your hunger with the high fat and high fibre content.
Avocados are also a great source of Pantothenic acid or B5. Pantothenic acid is a super essential vitamin for energy support. Without Pantothenic acid, your body wouldn't be able to use fat, protein or carbohydrates for energy. As well, your body wouldn't be able to produce hormones. And would negatively affect your immune system!
Avocados also have a higher potassium content than bananas! Which is beneficial in reducing blood pressure.
Did you know...avocados are a great source of magnesium too. Your body contains roughly 25 grams of magnesium, and 60% of this is in your bones and soft tissues. You need magnesium to help control your blood sugar levels, your blood pressure, maintain bone density, and keep your nerves and muscles in optimal working condition! Nuts (especially dry roasted almonds), spinach, avocado, beans, and especially cacao (check out our Heart drink!) are great sources. Most of us do not consume enough magnesium, but our kidneys try to overcome this by lowering the amount of magnesium we excrete in our urine! Increasing your dietary intake does empower your body, especially those with health conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and GI disorders where too much magnesium is excreted from the kidneys.
Now, although avocados are great for our Instagram photos and health, it takes 1 year for an avocado to grow and it is now causing illegal deforestation. This means pine forest being cut down, and more water needed to grow this delicious fruit. I highly recommend for you to add avocados to your diet, but maybe pick something else from the brunch menu once in a while so we look can look after our planet as well.
Here's some little known facts about avocado trees (infographic provided by www.trees.com):
If you're looking to grow your own avocado tree, head to www.trees.com/avocado-trees for some luhv-ly advice and step by step instructions.
https://www.bodyreviewers.com/the-avocado-definitely-on-the-worlds-healthiest-foods-list/
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=5