Avocado is a good source of monounsaturated fats.

The misunderstood avocado is not a force of evil in the dieting world. Most people shy away from this fruit because it’s ‘so fattening,’ only seen next to a bowl ofnachos.. The fad diet books have warned us about its dual nature. “You can eat fruit, but shy away from the avocado or it will make you fat!”

Sure, the avocado is high in fat. It’s almost all fat. One avocado is about 360 calories and 30 grams of fat. However, it’s high in monounsaturated fat, and that kind of fat is good for your heart. –Plus, avocado’s health benefits include helping to control diabetes, fighting inflammation and protecting babies from birth defects.

Avocados for Diabetics

Research has shown that oleic acid in avocados lessens the risk of heart disease in people who have diabetes. Diabetics who eat a lot of carbohydrates generally develop high levels of triglycerides, a blood fat that may contribute to heart disease. Avocados, with their healthful monounsaturated fats and lower triglycerides levels, help control blood sugar levels and allow insulin to work more effectively.

Avocados for Everyone, Especially Pregnant Mothers

Avocados are also a rich source of fiber that aids digestion, regulates bowel movement, protects the colon, protects the heart and helps to lower cholesterol.  Avocado also boosts the immune system and improves bone health because it has a high level of zinc.  Pregnant women should include avocado in their diets because it is a rich source of folate which is one of the most important vitamins for pregnant women.  Folate is a water-soluble form of vitamin B that keeps developing babies healthy and your nerves functioning properly.

All Good Things in Moderation

You can eat your avocados in moderation, knowing that the health benefits firmly outweigh the fat content. If you think you’d rather spend your calories on some greasy sausages, consider whether you’re really doing your body a service.

Avocados are a healthy option for replacing meat in a sandwich, especially for vegetarians. Another recipe I like is eating avocados on toast, making a sort of jam out of it with a little lemon, salt and pepper.

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