Although most people think of it as a vegetable, avocado is actually a fruit, and is packed full of nutrition.
It contains vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, copper, iron, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium (1 avocado has the same potassium as 2-3 bananas), fiber, protein (it is a whole protein and easier to absorb than red meat), and lots of healthy phytochemicals.
Avocado contains the healthy fats that your body needs and helps to boost levels of HDL, the “good” cholesterol. The combination of healthy fats and nutrients means that avocado offers powerful anti inflammatory benefits so is a great food choice for those with arthritis. For those with high blood pressure, the potassium in avocados can help lower blood pressure.
Avocado is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, important for heart and brain health.
By Andrea Southern, Naturopath, Clinical Nutritionist, Herbalist.