7 More Reasons to Eat Avacados

Avocados have grown in popularity over the years – and for good reason!

For starters, they have been linked to heart health, are known for the monounsaturated fats and are a great source of potassium, magnesium and vitamins C, E, K1 and B-6. They also have a high amount of phytonutrients – special plant nutrients that help heal your body.

The fatty acids from avocado oil also help promote healthy blood lipid profiles and increases bioavailability of fat-soluble vitamins and phytochemicals that support cardiovascular health.

These reasons on their own should be enough to try avocados, but if you are not convinced, here are 7 more research-backed reasons to add avocados to your daily diet:

1. Avocados boost brain health.

Your brain craves fats to boost function and memory. Eating more monounsaturated fat that is found in avocados is a great way to help make your brain happy and well.

2. Avocados benefit eye health.

Avocados are packed with lutein and zeaxanthin, which help reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.

3. Avocados reduce kidney and liver damage.

The kidneys and liver are major organs that help your body flush out harmful toxins. In order to stay healthy, you need to support these organs by ingesting healthy foods like avocados that are full oleic acid and antioxidants, which help reduce damage to the kidneys and liver.

4. Avocados can help with arthritis pain.

Studies done by Davis Health system found that compounds in avocados might help reduce pain and stiffness and better yet, may also improve joint function.

5. Avocados promote weight loss.

Avocados can reduce your desire to eat and help keep you satiated, therefore promoting weight loss.

6. Avocados are packed with antioxidants.

Avocados are full of catechins and phenols that help protect against stress and oxidation.

7. Avocados are great for hydrating skin.

Avocados have shown to help fight against free radicals and premature skin aging.

There are many ways to eat avocados and add them to your diet. My favorite way is to put about ¼ -½ of an avocado in my smoothie. Give my recipe a try!

Glowing Green Smoothie

Ingredients

• 3 handfuls of spinach

• 1 cup of coconut water

• 1 cup of any fruit (I make my own medley of pineapples and mango)

• ½ avocado

• 1 scoop of super-food herbs (I love Fitlife’s Organifi)

• 1-3 scoop of plant-based protein (optional, best for post-workout smoothie)

Instructions

1. Add the ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth, about 1 minute, adding water to reach the desired consistency.

2. Enjoy!