Fresh avocados are a unique fresh fruit in that they’re virtually the only fresh fruit that contain good, unsaturated fats (monounsaturated fat + polyunsaturated fats).
While commonly known for their good fat content, it’s also important to recognize the full nutrient package that they offer. Avocados contribute nearly 20 vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds to the body. All of this combines for a spectacular fruit that is nutrient-dense and unrivaled in taste and texture.
What exactly do fresh avocados contain?
A serving of a fresh avocado (one-third of the medium fruit) provides:
6g of Naturally
Good Fat
Over 75% of the fat in healthy avocados is “good fat.” The body needs some dietary fat to help with absorption of nutrients. Good fats can help improve intake of dietary fat without raising LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels.
Dietary Fiber:
11% of the Daily Value
Avocados are a good source of fiber. Dietary fiber from fruits, as part of an overall healthy diet, helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and may lower the risk of heart disease.1
Potassium:
6% of the Daily Value
250 mg of Potassium Per Serving Dietary potassium may lower blood pressure by blunting the adverse effects of sodium on blood pressure. Other possible benefits of an eating pattern rich in potassium include a reduced risk of developing kidney stones and decreased bone loss.2
Vitamin E:
6% of the Daily Value
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects body tissue from damage caused by substances called free radicals. Free radicals can harm cells, tissues and organs and that antioxidants are believed to play a role in certain conditions related to aging. The body also needs vitamin E to help keep the immune system strong against viruses and bacteria.3
Vitamin C:
4% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that may contribute to healthy immune function and is essential for the growth and repair of tissue all over the body.4
This is just a brief introduction to the nutrients found in fresh avocados.
Discover even more nutrition facts here.
1. https://www.choosemyplate.gov/eathealthy/vegetables/vegetables-nutrients-health
2. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Potassium-Consumer/
3. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002406.htm
4. https://www.eatright.org/food/vitamins-and-supplements/types-of-vitamins-and-nutrients/how-vitamin-c-supports-a-healthy-immune-system
FEATURED RECIPE
Lettuce Cups with Hass Avocado, Tangerine and Salmon
Light and fresh, this easy lettuce cup recipe with ginger dressing is bursting with color and flavor. Makes a splendid summer salad recipe or a quick way to use leftover salmon fillets for lunch or dinner.
