New Research Says the Superfood Avocado Can Save Your Life

Amy Taylor February 26, 2016

Avocado has long been considered a superfood. It’s perfect in smoothies, salads, sandwiches and many other dishes. But apart from its culinary benefits, eating avocado could save your life too. A new study found that it ’significantly reduces’ cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease - one of the leading causes of death worldwide.

Avocado is rich in good fats which has been shown to significantly reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.

‘This study supports the body of research showing the many benefits that fresh avocados have to offer when consumed in everyday healthy eating plans.’ says Emiliano Escobedo, executive director, a scientist from Hass Avocado Board, in California.

Their study suggests that swapping solid fats for avocados can ‘significantly change lipid profiles’.

Researchers looked at 10 unique avocado studies with 229 participants, in which the impact of avocado on cholesterol levels was assessed.

The analysis showed that even healthy study subjects showed significant reductions.

‘Fresh avocado, as part of a balanced diet, and as a cholesterol-free substitute for solid fats, can help be part of the solution for maintaining normal cholesterol levels.’ says Dr Nikki Ford, director of nutrition for Hass Avocado Board.

‘Beyond their naturally good fats, avocados are also a delicious way to boost fibre… and fruit intakes, both of which are under consumed in American diets.’

High cholesterol is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease: the number one killer in both men and women. Researchers say additional studies must be conducted to look at the impact of avocados on major adverse cardiovascular events. They also note that the optimal amount of avocado and frequency of use needs further evaluation.

The new study was published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology.

Source of this article:

How eating avocado could save your life: Fruit ’lowers cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease’