We’ll be real: we’re in a love affair with avocados here at Wholesome Culture.
We love them topped on toast, stirred in smoothies, and whipped in face masks. But really, we’re so obsessed, we eat the green goodness straight up on a spoon. And it’s not just the creamy texture and smooth flavor that makes us splurge for extra avo. Avocados are also shown to benefit our eyes, muscles, heart health, and skin.
However, like almost all things, moderation is an important factor even when it comes to the amazing avocado. Experts typically recommend half an avocado a day or a max of one depending upon your lifestyle.
So yeah, maybe don’t have guacamole, an avocado sandwich, and an avocado-banana shake every day (not saying we haven’t done it once or twice!).
Here are 12 reasons to love avocados in your meals, on your face, and in your hair
1. Avocados are sources of good-for-you fatty acids
One of the big myths attached to avocados is that they’re fattening. And while avocados are high in fat, they’re sources of monounsaturated fatty acids. These are known as “good” fats. They help with things like decreasing inflammation, assisting with weight control, and reducing the risk of heart disease. Sounds pretty good to us!
2. They can protect your eyes
There’s a little thing called lutein in avocados, which is an antioxidant that is specifically good for eyes, particularly as we age. So eat up, your eyes will thank you!
3. They’re loaded with vitamins
Avocados have Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B5… you get the point. They’re super nutritious, which is one of the many reasons avocados are considered a superfood.
4. They are packed with potassium
Did you know an avocado has even more potassium than a banana? Yep, it’s true.
One avocado has 975 milligrams of potassium compared to the 487 milligrams in a banana. And potassium is helpful for preserving muscles, fighting bloating, and supporting heart health. Happy muscles coming your way!
5. Avocados have lots of antioxidants
Like blueberries, avocados are a great source of antioxidants. And we love antioxidants because they’re known to help ease inflammation and fight free radicals.
6. Avocados are full of fiber
Sick of chowing down on beans for your fiber intake? Well, avocado’s got it, too! One avocado has 10g of fiber (about half of what’s recommended per day, according to the American Heart Association).
Looking to get more fiber in your diet outside of beans? Chia seeds, potatoes, flax seeds, nuts, and artichokes are solid sources.
7. They’re considered a pregnancy-friendly food
Mommas-to-be, this one’s for you! A study shows that avocados should potentially be a staple during pregnancy (and in diets of women trying to get pregnant).
Why? Avocados are a good source of folate, a vitamin known for helping brains function properly. And when folate is consumed during pregnancy, it may even help prevent birth defects and support proper nervous system development in babies.
Also, the study notes that the nutrients avocados provide are normally “under-consumed in maternal diets.” So, if you’re worried about getting enough folate — chat with a doc to see if/how you should incorporate more folate-rich foods in your diet.
And learn more tips for having the best plant-based pregnancy, here!
8. They help hydrate hair
You know those fatty acids in avocados we keep mentioning? They’re also super nourishing for hair. They not only hydrate and help retain hair moisture, but they also protect hair from weather extremes.
So lather mashed avocado through your strands with these cruelty-free recipes from Mooky Chick! P.S. the green creation may look weird in the moment, but don’t let that scare you. The future shine and softness will make it worth it.
9. You can control the avocado ripening process (to an extent)
If you’re in a hurry to eat your avocado, don’t put it in the fridge. The coolness of the fridge will slow the ripening process by one to three days (ish).
And if you’re trying to ripen up your avocado quickly — the best trick is to stick it in a bag with a banana and apple for a few days. Those gases from the other fruit are like fast forward buttons on the ripening process.
10. Avocados are ultra-versatile
There are so many ways you can soak up the benefits of avocados in a way that works for you. Chop them into your leafy greens. Not craving a salad? Blend some avocado in a shake! More into spreads? Avocado is practically begging to be turned into a yummy guacamole.
Check out some of our favorite avocado recipes from the Wholesome Culture Cookbook:
11. They’ll moisturize your skin
All the healthy fats in avocados help keep skin moisturized and smooth. Plus, they contain Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that may even help protect your skin from UV damage (but that doesn’t mean you should skip the sunscreen!).
12. They’re a plant-based swap for butter
Next time you spot a recipe that calls for butter, don’t fret! Use avocado instead. You’ll cut the fat, make it vegan, and keep things tasting delish.
Want to learn more super handy vegan baking swaps? Read this post!
Now that you know all the perks of avocados, check out these reads:
