Avocados usually referred to Pear in Nigeria are a powerhouse . They are actually fruits and not vegetables. I guess some people are surprised about that.

They fall into the category of nutrient dense foods.

Here are some of their amazing health benefits :

📌It’s good for the skin and health:
This is due its Vitamin E which has strong Antioxidant properties which protect against oxidative damage caused by Free Radicals. Vitamin E also promotes skin elasticity.

I create my home-made facial mask :
I mash it, add turmeric , lemon , dongoyaro known as neem ( which is very good for the skin ) to it with some olive oil and use as a facial mask.

📌Great for Heart Health.
It lowers Triglycerides which can be dangerous.
It lowers bad cholesterol called LDL as it contains Beta-sitosterol , a plant sterol that has a similar structure with cholesterol . It then competes with cholesterol in the intestines this reducing absorption into the bloodstream. It raises HDL levels ( good cholesterol) .
It improves the health of arteries.

📌Helps with weight loss:
Though avocados are high in calories, they support healthy weight management. This is due to its fat and fiber content that keeps us full ( satiety) .
I love to add to my salads in place of shop bought salad dressings or creams . It can also be added to smoothies to make them smooth nutritious, tasty and creamy.

📌Rich in Nutrients :
Loaded with the following : Vitamins A( alpha and beta carotene), B1, B2,B3,B5,B6,B9 , B12, choline, C, K1, E. Also contains copper , magnesium and zinc.

📌Lowers blood sugar:
Improves insulin sensitivity. They are abundant in monounsaturated fats, specifically oleic acid, which can enhance insulin sensitivity and contribute to better blood sugar control.

📌Anti-cancer properties :
It has been found to fight AML a form of white blood cell cancer – Acute myeloid leukemia which is an aggressive cancer . The lipid AVOCATIN B kills off those cancer cells.

📌They are high in fiber;
Fiber as we know is beneficial for digestive health. It helps prevent constipation by improving bowel regularity.

📌Aids in lowering high blood pressure:
They contain more potassium than bananas and thus lower blood pressure.

📌Powerful Antioxidant Properties:
Avocados are high in powerful antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin which are essential for eye health. This can be a plus in reducing the risk of macular degeneration as one ages

It’s easy to incorporate avocados in our diet :
In smoothies , salads and as a healthy spread on bread
We must remember that they are high in calories too

It’s so beneficial with people who are diabetic and have high blood pressure , both of which as this disease can lead to heart disease , kidney damage and other dysfunctions

I love to consume it daily . I slice it into nice pieces , slice raw onions on them , sprinkle black pepper on them and even sesame seeds .

Be creative when it comes to food and your health