This green fruit will help you lose weight and gain a healthy heart!

Avocado or butterfruit, as it is more commonly called in India, is relatively high in fat and calorie content which is why some people, particularly those looking to lose/maintain weight, avoid it. However, studies show that the fruit has powerful beneficial effects on health. While most fruits consists primarily of carbohydrates, avocado is relatively high in healthy fats, fiber, and other valuable nutrients; not to mention, easily incorporated in your diet and taste bud-friendly!

Loaded with monounsaturated fatty acids: 77% of the calories in it are from fat but it is not just any fat; the majority of the fat is oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that’s linked to reduced inflammation and shown to have beneficial effects on genes linked to cancer. The fats in avocado are also pretty resistant to heat-induced oxidation, making avocado oil a healthy and safe choice for cooking, not unlike olive oil.

Lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels: Heart disease is the most common cause of death in the world, the risk factors being cholesterol, triglycerides, inflammatory markers, blood pressure and various others. Numerous studies have shown that eating avocado can improve these heart disease risk factors.

Protects the eyes: Not only do avocados increase antioxidant absorption from other foods, they are also high in antioxidants themselves, including Lutein and Zeaxanthin, which are very important for eye health and lower the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

May help prevent cancer: Some studies in isolated cells have shown that nutrients in avocados may have benefits in preventing prostate cancer, and lowering side effects of chemotherapy in some cells.

Helps lose weight: Avocados helps you feel fuller for a longer time, thereby, reducing your cravings for snacks between meals. Avocados are also high in fiber, and very low in carbs; two attributes that help promote weight loss.