|
 Who does not know the avocado . . . the fruit that came from Central America and Mexico? In addition to it's delicious taste, avocado also contains numerous nutritional benefits. Avocado contains at least 11 vitamins and 14 minerals that are valuable to the body. Avocado is rich in protein, riboflavin (or known as vitamin B2), niacin (known as or vitamin B3), potassium, and vitamin C.
Besides being a heart healthy fruit, avocado helps in promoting overall good health with Vitamin E, Vitamin K, lutein and beta-carotene. Avocados have the highest fiber content of any fruit, which is beneficial in health and weight maintenance. It is an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated fat. Avocado contains oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat which helps lower cholesterol levels.
Folic Acid in Avocado
Avocados are the richest fruit in folic acid, nutrients that are necessary for women who intend to become pregnant and those who are pregnant already. Experts say pregnant women should consume fresh fruits or fresh vegetables as a source of folic acid. However, 80% of folic acids from vegetables can be lost during the cooking process!
How much folic acid does an avocado contain? About 114 micrograms. The daily amount of folic acid recommended for pregnant women is about 600 micrograms, 500 micrograms for breastfeeding mothers and 400 micrograms for adult women.
Benefits of Avocado for Skin
For youthful and healthy skin, use avocado oil. It is an excellent facial oil.
Avocado oil strengthens the skin by stimulating collagen, thereby reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture. Avocados are also rich in vitamin E, a free radical scavenger that will assist in slowing the aging process. The combination of vitamin E and vitamin A in avocados can make skin become more elastic, remove wrinkles, and generally make the skin look young and fresh again.
Avocado can also treat sun damaged skin and heal skin rashes to a great extent. Avocado oil is rich in vitamins A, D and E and can be absorbed by the skin. Using avocado is marvelous for dehydrated skin as it provides nourishment and moisture.
Avocado for Hair
Avocado is also beneficial to the hair. The proteins, vitamins, and natural oil in the avocado will soften and moisturize your hair, while adding nutrients and repairing old damage. Hair will be hydrated, shiny, and more elastic!
 So what are you waiting for? Don't you have some grocery shopping to do?
|
