Avocados are fruits and they are
related to the berry family. They are a natural, wholesome part of a healthy
diet. Avocados provide vital nutrients and phytochemicals essential to
human function. Because of their simple flavor, avocados are easy to mix,
blend, or hide in other foods. The Aztecs used the avocado as a sex stimulant.
Their name for the avocado was ahuacatl which translates to testicle. As such
the avocado has a reputation for inducing sexual prowess and vitality.
About 75% of an avocado's calories
come from its “good” fat. Good fats help nerve and brain function, and keep the
heart healthy. They are necessary for the production of healthy hormones. Good
fats, such as avocado, have been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels. Fats
store vitamins A, D, E, and K which are essential to life.
The avocado gives us potassium which assists
in the regulation of the acid-base balance, in protein synthesis, and in
carbohydrate metabolism. It is necessary
for the building of muscle, muscle function, and for normal body growth.
The avocado also gives us
magnesium which is needed in energy production and muscle function. The vitamin
K in the avocado is necessary for proper blood clotting and bone strength.
Vitamin E is good for the immune system, protects the heart, helps build
healthy hormones, and aids in the health of our skin, hair, and nails.
From this versatile fruit, we get
folate and vitamin B6. Folate is especially important during periods of rapid
cell division and growth such as infancy and pregnancy. B6 helps in the
production of antibodies. Vitamin B6 helps maintain normal nerve function
and proper digestion of proteins. For the health of our eyes, the avocado gives
us lutein. We all know about vitamin C and the immune system. That’s in there
too. Vitamin C is also need for the maintenance and repair of skin, tendons,
ligaments, and blood vessels.
If you have never considered
adding avocados to your meals, today is the day to start. My favorite way to
use the avocado is to put some in the blender with my other breakfast smoothie
ingredients: A banana, some berries, a raw farm fresh egg (that’s another blog
coming soon), some Stoneyfield plain yogurt, and a little water to loosen it
up. The avocado blends in perfectly without altering the fruity flavor (as does
the egg) and lends a creamy texture to the drink. It’s hard to get so much
nutrition in one glass (Or two. I make a big smoothie) and it’s a much, much
better option than a bowl of cereal. They also compliment salads well. Try one!
It’s a Great Day to be Alive! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoqyHkYSJqY
