Serious superfood: top 5 health benefits of avocados

culled from:tescohealthandwellbeing.com

1. Heart health

Perhaps the most well-known benefit of avocados is that they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Studies show that they can also help to improve your cholesterol profile by reducing LDL (or ‘bad’) cholesterol and increasing HDL (or ‘good’) cholesterol levels. What may be less well-known is that avocados also contain lots of potassium - even more than bananas! This can help regulate or reduce blood pressure – a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.

2. Weight management

But avocados are high in fats, you say. How could they possibly be an aid to weight management? Well, while it may be true that avocados are rich in fats, these are mainly of the monounsaturated (i.e. healthy) variety. These fats provide the body with a source of slow-release energy. In addition to this, avocados are also a good source of soluble fibre (which slows down the breakdown of carbs) and protein, both of which help you feel satisfied for longer (and so less likely to raid the fridge for snacks!).

3. Skin health

The monounsaturated fat in avocados can help you achieve a glowing, healthy complexion by keeping the epidermal layer of your skin hydrated. They also contain antioxidants such as vitamin E, beta carotene and lutein, which can protect your skin from the ageing effects of free radicals and improve its firmness and tone.
Check out this tasty and fresh chicken and bean salad with avocado.

4. Maximise nutrient intake from other foods

Not only are avocados a great source of nutrients by themselves, they can also boost the nutritional impact of other foods when combined together. This is because avocados provide the fat necessary for allowing your body to absorb fat-soluble nutrients such as carotenoids (an antioxidant that protects the body against harmful free radicals) and vitamins A, D, E and K. So make sure you add some slices of avocado to your next salad for maximum health benefits!
For something quick, easy and healthy, try this warm pepper and avocado salad!

Did you know?
Avocados ripen better when stored with bananas or apples as these fruits release ethylene gas, a naturally occurring plant hormone. For maximum effect, store together in a brown paper bag.

5. Boost your mood and energy levels

Worried that the mid-afternoon slump will halt you in your tracks? You needn’t be if you’ve put some avocado into your lunch. That’s because avocado is an excellent source of slow-release energy due to its high concentration of healthy fats, protein and fibre. The potassium in avocados can also help stave off fatigue.
Avocados can also help keep you in good spirits as they provide nutrients needed for the development of serotonin (a feel-good neuro-transmitter) in the brain. They’re also rich in vitamin B-6 and folate, which are important as some studies suggest there may be a link between a deficiency in these vitamins and developing depression.