Nutritional Value of Avocado

Avocado is also known as alligator pear or butter fruit. Along with dietary fibers, avocado is also rich in fats. Let us take a look at the nutritional value of avocado.
Nutritional Value of Avocado
Avocado is a fruit that belongs to the berry family. Avocado is primarily grown in North America and South America. Moreover, avocado helps to speed up the body metabolism as it has high fat content. Avocados are used by people who are on a weight management plan. The monosaturated fats in avocado give a feeling of satiety and thus helps to increase the metabolic rate and reduce weight effectively. Here is some useful information about the nutritional value of avocado.

Nutritional Value of Avocado - Vitamins

Vitamins Amounts Per 100 gm
Vitamin A 147 IU
Vitamin C 8.8 mg
Vitamin E 1.97 mg
Vitamin K 21 mcg
Thiamin 0.075 mg
Riboflavin 0.143 mg
Niacin 1.912 mg
Folate 89 mcg
Pantothenic Acid 1.463 mcg
Choline 21.3 mg
Betaine 1.1 mg

Nutritional Value of Avocado - Fats and Fatty Acids

Fats and Fatty Acids Amount Per 100 gm
Total Fat 15.41 mg
Saturated Fat 2.126 mg
Monounsaturated Fat 9.799 mg
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.816 mg

Nutritional Value of Avocado - Minerals

Minerals Amount Per 100 gm
Calcium 13 mg
Iron 0.61 mg
Magnesium 29 mg
Phosphorus 54 mg
Potassium 507 mg
Sodium 8 mg
Zinc 0.68 mg
Copper 0.17 mg
Manganese 0.149 mg
Selenium 0.4 mcg

Avocado Nutrition Facts - Health Benefits
Avocado is popular due to the high contents of Vitamin K and Vitamin A. Vitamin E in the avocados is a good antioxidant and helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Carotenoid lutein in avocado helps in maintaining the health of the eyes. The avocado nutritional information reveals that this fruit contains many essential vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Avocados contain beta-sitosterol which is a natural plant sterol that helps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The fiber content of avocados is beneficial for those who suffer from indigestion and gastric problems. Avocados are also beneficial for those who suffer from acidity problem. Calcium and potassium in avocados are good for strengthening and maintaining the bones in the body. This fruits also helps to cleanse the body in an effective way.

Hair care and skin care are the other major health benefits of avocado. Avocado paste can be applied on the skin rashes or rough skin to make the skin smooth and soft. As avocados are rich in magnesium, they are good for muscle contraction and relaxation. Psoriasis and bad breadth can be well treated by eating avocados. Rubbing avocado fruit on the skin helps to heal sunburn. Potassium in avocados helps to maintain the electrolyte balance in the body. Also, folate present in avocados helps to promote healthy development of muscles and tissues in the body. The traditional health benefit of avocado is that it is used to treat sexual problems. The recommended intake of avocado fruit is half fruit several times a week. Avocados can be included in the diet by mixing them in salads or having a salad sandwich for lunch. Avocados are eaten along with other fruits or in the form of a shake.

All the above facts and statements encompasses the nutritional value of avocado. With abundance of vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients, avocado fruit helps to prevent diseases and maintains good overall health and fitness.

By Aarti R
Published: 8/26/2009
 
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