Ever wonder why avocados have earned the nickname “green gold”? It’s not just because of their rich, creamy texture. It’s also because of how crazy popular they are around the world. Avocados have become a prized crop, particularly in regions like Mexico, East Africa, and Nigeria, where farmers hail them as an “antidote to poverty.” In the United States alone, avocado consumption tripled from 2001 to 2020, with the average person devouring over 8 pounds of avocados each year! Here are 7 reasons why everyone loves avocados and why they deserve the title of “green gold:”
They stabilize blood sugar
Photo by engin akyurt on UnsplashAvocados are packed with healthy fats and nutrients that help stabilize blood sugar and insulin levels. This makes them excellent for fighting diabetes and metabolic syndrome while promoting fat loss and muscle building. Unlike high-glycemic foods that cause blood sugar spikes, avocados keep your levels steady, reducing fat-storing insulin release. Plus, avocados can help lower blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, making them a heart-healthy choice.
They can help with cancer prevention
Photo by Prudence Earl on UnsplashResearch published in the Journal of Nutrition and Cancer highlights avocados as powerful cancer fighters. The phytochemicals in avocados can induce cancer cell death, reduce growth, and promote apoptosis in precancerous and cancer cell lines. The monounsaturated fats in avocados also have anti-inflammatory properties, which are crucial in cancer prevention. Specifically, beta-sitosterol in avocados protects the prostate gland, and carotenoids help combat skin cancer and aging.
They help with weight loss
Photo by K8 on UnsplashDespite their high-calorie content, avocados are a fantastic food for weight loss. The healthy fats in avocados increase satiety, helping you feel full longer and reducing overall food intake. It’s been reported that people on avocado-rich diets experience significant reductions in body mass, BMI, and body fat percentage. Also, avocados help you absorb more fat-burning vitamins and minerals!
Avocados contain amazing fats
Photo by Art Rachen on UnsplashThe oleic acid in avocados is the same heart-healthy fat found in olive oil. This type of fat helps lower bad cholesterol, regulate blood sugar, and protect both the heart and brain. Avocados also contain fiber, beta-sitosterol, magnesium, and potassium, which collectively help reduce blood pressure and LDL cholesterol. Overall, they’re great for heart health!
They promote new cell growth
Photo by Odiseo Castrejon on UnsplashAnother amazing thing about avocados (other than they improve tacos tremendously) is that they’re a rich source of folate, a B vitamin crucial for making new cells and producing healthy DNA and RNA. Folate is especially important for pregnant women as it reduces the risk of birth defects. Avocados are also a perfect baby food, being easily mashable and packed with essential nutrients and healthy fats that support growth and development.
They promote eye health
Photo by Vanessa Bumbeers on UnsplashAvocados are loaded with carotenoids and lutein, antioxidants that are essential for eye health. They also contain zeaxanthin, alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and significant amounts of vitamin E. The oleic acid in avocados helps the body absorb these antioxidants, which protect against inflammation, support healthy growth, and boost immunity. If you want to maintain good vision and prevent eye issues, adding more avocado to your diet could help!
They help you get healthy skin and hair
Photo by Fray Bekele on UnsplashLast but not least, the antioxidants and phytochemicals in avocados help fight damage from the sun and other environmental stressors, reducing inflammation and DNA damage. Diets rich in avocados and other antioxidant-rich foods contribute to healthier, less wrinkly skin. The beneficial carotenoids in avocados can also add a healthy glow to your skin. Additionally, avocados are a common ingredient in homemade and natural skincare thanks to how rich in oils and vitamins they are.
