The Hass avocado is a cultivar of avocado (Persea americana) with dark green–colored, bumpy skin.This a large-sized fruit weighing 200 to 300 grams.Owing to its taste, size, shelf-life, high growing yield, and in some areas, year-round harvesting, the Hass cultivar is the most commercially popular avocado worldwide. When ripe, the skin becomes a dark purplish-black and yields to gentle pressure.When ready to serve, it becomes white-green in the middle part of the inner fruit.
The avocado has become an incredibly popular food among health-conscious individuals. It’s often referred to as a superfood, which is not surprising given its health properties.
Although they are often used in savory dishes, avocados are botanically part of the berry family. This means they are related to fruits like tomatoes and berries.
About 75% of the calories in an avocado come from fats, but don't worry! These are monounsaturated fats like oleic acid, which help lower "bad" cholesterol and raise "good" cholesterol.
Avocados contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber helps lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, while insoluble fiber aids digestion.
Besides the vitamins and minerals already mentioned, avocados also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that are important for good eye health.
The healthy fats in avocados help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and increase “good” HDL cholesterol.
The potassium in avocados helps regulate blood pressure.
Chronic inflammation is a major risk factor for heart disease. The antioxidants in avocados help reduce this inflammation.
The fiber in avocados ensures healthy bowel function and helps prevent constipation.
The fiber serves as food for the good bacteria in the intestines, which is essential for good health.
The combination of healthy fats, fiber, and protein in avocados ensures a long-lasting feeling of satiety, which means you are less likely to snack.
Some studies suggest that avocados can boost your metabolism, helping you burn more calories.
The antioxidants in avocados help protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun.
The healthy fats and antioxidants in avocados help keep your skin elastic and can help reduce wrinkles.
The healthy fats and antioxidants in avocados are essential for good brain function and can help improve memory and concentration.
Folate, found in avocados, is important for fetal development.
The healthy fats and carbohydrates in avocados provide energy and can improve athletic performance.
