Americans are fat-phobic, and it’s a damn shame. Most people miss out on some truly delicious food. In my humble opinion, fresh guacamole is one of the greatest foods ever created by man.
Although it’s counterintuitive, eating fat does not necessarily make you fat. Yes, avocados are high in fat (and thus calories), but it’s GOOD, heart-healthy (monounsaturated) fat. Most importantly, avocados are FILLING, increasing the likelihood that you’ll resist binging on sweet/salty/carby snacks.
Natural fats do not induce weight gain like artificial fats do, primarily because, unlike processed fats, 1) natural fats are extremely satiating and 2) your body promptly recognizes them as food. Unlike Velveeta, an Avocado is difficult to overeat because your body knows when it’s had enough.
In fact, avocados have been shown to actually assist in weight loss in spite of the fact that they are caloric. The monounsaturated fats found in avocados promote the reduction in cholesterol levels and LDL (bad cholesterol). Avocados are loaded with a variety of antioxidants, including disease-fighting compounds such as lutein, beta-carotene, and vitamin E. Recent research shows some evidence that active compounds in avocados that might also help prevent cancer.
Interestingly, Avocados also help the body absorb healthy phytochemicals from other foods, so pairing avocados with salsa or salad allows for better absorption of antioxidants. For example, lycopene in tomatoes and beta-carotene in carrots are better-absorbed along with a slice or two of avocado. That makes guacamole the ultimate food, doesn’t it?
How Can I Eat Avocado?
- On omelets
- In salads
- In smoothies
- As a spread
- In guac
- On burgers
- Spooned straight into your piehole
- Or…
A Little-Known Gem: Avocado Oil
You can use avocado oil in cooking and salads to increase the absorption of antioxidants and add subtle flavor to foods. Yes, it’s pricey, but it’s also delicious, withstands high heat in cooking (unlike olive oil), and provides a tasty alternative to olive oil or animal fats. You can find avocado oil in most health food and specialty stores. Give it a shot.
So fear the avocado no longer, my friend. You two will get along.
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