Some very compelling reasons (especially the glutathione) to eat an avocado or two a day.
The compound profile of the avocado includes a cholesterol-lowering by a phytosterol called beta-sitosterol and the anti-acid glutathione, according to Dr. David Heber, director of the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition. Evidence suggests phytosterol and glutathione found in avocados may help prevent certain types of cancers and heart disease in
humans.
"The avocado has long been known for its special taste enhancing properties," Heber said. "However, new research demonstrates that avocados provide favorable phytochemicals that work in combination with biochemicals from other foods in the diet to enhance overall health."
"The California avocado is an excellent dietary source of glutathione and phytosterol providing micronutrients that may have unique roles in the body and the potential to improve overall health and prevent chronic disease," Heber said.
According to Heber, he has discovered that avocados contain a biochemical called lutien, which is a carotenoid recently discovered in avocados and found in green vegetables to help protect against cancer, including Prostate Cancer.
Traditionally, lutein has been found in green vegetables such as parsley, celery and spinach, but was recently discovered in avocados. In fact, research shows that avocados are the highest fruit source of lutein among the 20 most frequently consumed fruits.
Heber states, "avocados are recognized as an excellent source of monounsaturated fat which is known to lower cholesterol levels, but the antioxidant and biochemical properties of avocados are less well-recognized. These plant nutrients naturally found in fruits and vegetables work together to reduce oxidative stress and prevent disease.
The avocado contains fourteen minerals, all of which regulate body functions and stimulate growth. Especially, noteworthy are its iron and copper contents, which aid in red blood cell regeneration and the prevention of nutritional anemia. It also contains a higher source of potassium than bananas. The avocado is also a great source of protein at 10 to 15%.
Asparagus, avocado, and walnuts are particularly rich dietary sources of glutathione.
The compound profile of the avocado includes a cholesterol-lowering by a phytosterol called beta-sitosterol and the anti-acid glutathione, according to Dr. David Heber, director of the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition. Evidence suggests phytosterol and glutathione found in avocados may help prevent certain types of cancers and heart disease in
humans.
"The avocado has long been known for its special taste enhancing properties," Heber said. "However, new research demonstrates that avocados provide favorable phytochemicals that work in combination with biochemicals from other foods in the diet to enhance overall health."
"The California avocado is an excellent dietary source of glutathione and phytosterol providing micronutrients that may have unique roles in the body and the potential to improve overall health and prevent chronic disease," Heber said.
According to Heber, he has discovered that avocados contain a biochemical called lutien, which is a carotenoid recently discovered in avocados and found in green vegetables to help protect against cancer, including Prostate Cancer.
Traditionally, lutein has been found in green vegetables such as parsley, celery and spinach, but was recently discovered in avocados. In fact, research shows that avocados are the highest fruit source of lutein among the 20 most frequently consumed fruits.
Heber states, "avocados are recognized as an excellent source of monounsaturated fat which is known to lower cholesterol levels, but the antioxidant and biochemical properties of avocados are less well-recognized. These plant nutrients naturally found in fruits and vegetables work together to reduce oxidative stress and prevent disease.
The avocado contains fourteen minerals, all of which regulate body functions and stimulate growth. Especially, noteworthy are its iron and copper contents, which aid in red blood cell regeneration and the prevention of nutritional anemia. It also contains a higher source of potassium than bananas. The avocado is also a great source of protein at 10 to 15%.
Asparagus, avocado, and walnuts are particularly rich dietary sources of glutathione.
