Benefits of the Avocado (and a trick!)

Choosing an avocado is fairly easy... the ripe fruits have a darker skin color and are firm, but slightly bounce to the touch. Too hard? Not ripe. Too mushy? Too ripe. Be careful of bruises and dings, these can cause the fruit to rot on the inside, causing discolored, inedible spots.

Did you know the seed helps keep the beautiful green shade of the avocado fruit? 

If you're slicing a half to eat, I recommend eating the half without the seed first. If you're preparing a yummy guacamole, save the seed and nestle into the guacamole until you're ready to serve. Don't be deterred to try, the avocado has a bad rap for having an unhealthy reputation. But guess what... it's great for you (in moderation, of course)! Here are some of the health benefits to eating avocados from healthdiaries.com:

• Oral Cancer Defense
• Prostate Cancer Prevention
• Breast Cancer Protection - high in oleic acid
• Eye Health - has more carotenoid lutein than any other commonly consumed fruit
• Lower Cholesterol - high in beta-sitosterol
• Heart Health - high levels of folate, vitamin E, monounsaturated fats, and gluthathione
• Stroke Prevention - high levels of folate
• Better Nutrient Absorption when eaten with other foods, try adding to a salad
• Gluthathione Source - an important antioxidant that researchers say are important in preventing aging, cancer and heart disease
• Vitamin E Powerhouse

Let me know how it works for you!