All about Avocados!

We always hear the phrase “an apple a day, keeps the doctor away.” However, no one ever mentioned Avocados…….

According to a Pubmed research study, ”nutrients in avocados are associated with cardiovascular benefits.”

Let me break this down a bit……there are multiple things that can effect the heart, including cholesterol (fats!!). The 3 main types include:

1. VLDL (very low density lipoprotein)

2. LDL (low density lipoprotein)

3. HDL (high density lipoprotein)

Numbers 1 and 2 are considered BAD cholesterol, meaning these are the types that clog the arteries. No bueno!

Number 3, however (HDL) is considered GOOD cholesterol and it actually absorbs bad cholesterol and gets rid of it!

Research shows that eating avocados can actually INCREASE HDL (good) cholesterol and decrease the risk of Cardiovascular Disease (which cause things like heart attack and stroke)

Well…..How much avocado should I eat?!

-According to the previously mentioned study, an improvement in cardiovascular health was associated with eating 1 to about 4 avocados DAILY! Which, I know sounds like a bit much but, for me if it means I’ll be more heart healthy…….”gimme all the avo-cados!!!”

Though, they are known to be high in calories (blah, blah, blahhhh), avocados are known to be associated with a healthier weight, smaller waist circumference and lower BMI compared to those that do not consume avocados.

So, take it for what you will but I hope this helps you to navigate your food decisions! For those that want to incorporate avocados into their meals, try these recipes below: (feel free to add another protein, let me know what you think!)

Avocado Grilled Cheese

• https://www.acouplecooks.com/tomato-avocado-grilled-cheese/

Chipotle Black Bean and Avocado Quesadillas

• https://www.acouplecooks.com/chipotle-black-bean-and-avocado-quesadillas-recipe/