Avocados are one of the symbols of Mexican cuisine, but also a source of myriad health benefits. Keep reading to learn more — we guarantee that you won’t look at guacamole the same way!
A Rich Nutrient Profile
Avocados pack a nice nutritional punch. Not for nothing they have been classified as a “superfood.” For example, these are just some of the nutrients found in avocado:
- Vitamin C: 22% of the daily value (DV)
- Vitamin E: 28% of the DV
- Vitamin K: 35% of the DV
- Riboflavin (B2): 20% of the DV
- Niacin (B3): 22% of the DV
- Pantothenic acid (B5): 56% of the DV
- Pyridoxine (B6): 30% of the DV
- Copper: 42% of the DV
- Manganese: 12% of the DV
- Folate: 41% of the DV
- Magnesium: 14% of the DV
- Potassium: 21% of the DV
They Contribute to Gut Health
In addition to being a source of vitamins and minerals, avocados also contain fiber (there are 14 grams of fiber in a 7-ounce avocado), which makes them a great ally in maintaining optimal gut health.
Although more research is necessary, some studies suggest that people who eat avocados have a greater abundance of gut microbes that break down fiber and produce metabolites that promote gut health.
They Are Good for Your Heart
Avocados contain monounsaturated fats, which are good for your heart.
According to a study, eating one avocado a day is associated with lower levels of small, dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles and oxidized LDL in adults with overweight or obesity.
The bottom line is that a growing body of research suggests that avocados may help protect your heart against disease.
Rich in Antioxidants
Avocados offer all the benefits listed so far, plus antioxidants, molecules that help fight the effects of oxidative stress.
The list of antioxidants found in avocado is as impressive as the list of vitamins. The antioxidants include:
- Chlorogenic acid. Protects your DNA.
- Quinic acid. Promotes DNA repair.
- Gallic acid. Offers benefits that include improved brain function.
- Quercetin. May help prevent swelling and heart disease.
- Epicatechin. Reduces the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
There you have it: Now there are even more reasons to add avocado to your diet!
El Pollo Norteno: Authentic Mexican Food
Hungry for authentic Mexican food? Contact El Pollo Norteno today! From chicken grilled over real mesquite charcoal to chicken tacos, burritos, and everything in between, we have delicious options to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
Visit any of our four locations (Anaheim, Santa Ana, and Garden Grove), order online, get in touch through Facebook, or call 866-MI-POLLO to enjoy our authentic Mexican dishes: amazing chicken grilled to perfection over real Mesquite charcoal, caldo de pollo, flan, carnitas, carne asada, and more!