Healthy Heart

What makes avocados so good for your heart?

  • Carotenoids are fat-soluble. Avocados facilitate the absorption of carotenoids – especially beta-carotene and lycopene, which are essential for heart health.

 

  • Cholesterol can’t dissolve in the blood. It has to be transported to and from the cells by carriers called lipoproteins. Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is known as “bad” cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is known as “good” cholesterol. Loaded with monounsaturated fats, research suggests that avocados lower LDL levels (bad cholesterol) while elevating the amount of HDL (good cholesterol) in your body.

 

  • Metabolic Syndrome is a group of symptoms that raise the risk of corornary artery disease. Research indicates that avocado consumption is associated with improved diet quality, nutrient intake and reduced risk of Metabolic Syndrome.

 

  • The fat in avocados provides protection against heart diseases because oleic acid is the primary fat in avocados.

 

  • Avocados are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids normally found only in non-vegetarian diet like fish. They are also packed with alpha-linolenic acid.

 

  • A high folate intake is also associated with a lower risk of heart attacks and heart disease. Avocados serve the purpose.

 

  • Recent studies have also shown that increasing potassium intake may help lower blood pressure. Potassium is a mineral that helps normalize blood pressure. Avocados are a good source of potassium.