Daily Perricone

Although we think of the avocado as a vegetable, it is actually a fruit—and a delicious one at that. For years many people avoided avocados because they are high in fat. However, most of the fat in an avocado is monounsaturated, the kind believed by some scientists to protect against heart disease and certain cancers. In addition, monounsaturated fat is burned more efficiently after exercise then saturated fat, a fact that may significantly contribute to long-term weight loss. A study from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston showed that diets high in monounsaturated fat like that found in avocados can b more effective than low-fat plans for weight loss and maintenance.

Avocados also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which, as we know, facilitate weight loss, are beneficial for heart health, and reduce inflammation. Creamy, buttery avocados make an excellent substitute for foods high in inflammatory saturated fats such as butter, cream cheese, and sour cream.

Avocados are cholesterol-free, sodium-free, and low in saturated fat. They’re a nutrient-dense food that offers potassium, magnesium, folate, dietary fiber, riboflavin, and vitamins C, E, and B6.  They are also rich in anti-inflammatory, antiaging, disease-fighting phytochemicals including lutein and other antioxidants. Have you tried incorporating this healthy, fat friendly fruit into your weight loss plan?

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