Avocado Nutrition Facts

It has been observed that most people avoid avocados due to its fat content, whereas, some others are averse to its flavor. Very few are aware of the avocado nutrition facts and they consume this fruit in moderate amounts. Avocados are rich in various vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids and healthy fat. The cultivation and use of avocados have been traced back to 8000 BC. It is said that avocado trees (Persea Americana) are native to Central and South America, but, now, they are grown in most of the tropical regions across the globe. This article deals with avocado nutrition facts that are responsible for the health benefits offered by this fruit.

Avocado Nutrition

Avocado is otherwise known as butter fruit (due to the buttery flesh) or alligator pear for the coarse, dark-colored skin (especially, the Hass variety). The buttery flesh of this fruit has a nutty flavor. While, some people detest the flavor, others avoid this fruits due to the high fat content. However, avocados are tagged as one of the most nutritious fruits in the world and regular use of this fruit in moderate amounts is recommended by health experts. One cup (around 150 grams) of sliced avocado amounts to around 235 calories, from which 200 calories is derived from its fat content only. 150 grams of avocado contains around 3 grams protein, 11 grams carbohydrates, 7 grams dietary fiber, 1.3 grams sugar, 22.7 grams fat, and no cholesterol. The following table will provide you with the details about the nutritional value of avocado (for 150 grams).

Nutrient	Value
Vitamin A	893.52 IU
Vitamin B1	0.16 mg
Vitamin B2	0.18 mg
Vitamin B3	2.8 mg
Vitamin B6	0.41 mg
Vitamin C	11.53 mg
Vitamin E	3.31 mg
Vitamin K	29.2 mcg
Folate	90.4 mcg
Potassium	874.5 mg
Selenium	0.58 mcg
Calcium	16 mg
Sodium	14.6 mg
Phosphorus	59.9 mg
Magnesium	56.9 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Zinc	0.61 mg
Manganese	0.2 mg

Now, you have a basic idea about avocado nutrition facts, calories, etc. While, most of the calories in avocado comes from its high fat content, the good news is that almost 90% of this fat is monounsaturated fat, which is considered to be relatively healthy. So, it can be used as an alternative for foods high in saturated fats. If you are calorie conscious, then you can use avocado as a replacement for some fatty items, like, dips and spreads. Otherwise too, it is healthy to include this fruit in your diet, but, in small amounts. Let us take a look at some of the avocado health benefits.

Avocado Health Benefits

As mentioned above, avocado is one of the most nutritious fruits and so, it offers various health benefits. Even though, many are speculative of the high fat content in avocado, it is said avocados that are rich in monounsaturated fats may lower cholesterol levels. The folate content in this fruit is very high and this is beneficial in preventing heart diseases, stroke, etc. Being rich in potassium, avocados are said to be good for regulating blood pressure and lowering the risk of circulatory problems, like, hypertension, stroke, etc. It is also said that avocados contain oleic acid that may prevent some forms of cancer. Another avocado nutritional fact is that the monounsaturated fats in avocados aid the body in absorbing carotenoids in a better way. Nutrition facts of an avocado include its use in skin and hair care. So, this fruit is very widely used in hair mask and other beauty products.

Now, you know more about some avocado nutrition facts. You may include this fruit in your diet and reap the benefits offered by it.