1. Healthy Fats

Avocados are higher in fat and calories than most other fruits and vegetables, but the fat in them is the good kind. It’s been linked to lower cholesterol and therefore a reduced risk of developing heart disease. Plus, it’s satisfying for your appetite. A little avocado goes a long way, so you don’t have to eat more than ¼ of one to benefit. If that’s not one of the best reasons to eat avocados, I don’t know what is.

2. Potassium

Potassium is a nutrient that helps control your blood pressure, so not getting enough can do a number on your health. Luckily, avocados can help you meet the daily intake recommendations for this important nutrient. Most fruits and vegetables contain potassium, but avocados are a particularly good source.

3. Vitamin K

This might not be a vitamin you hear about all that much, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t important. Vitamin K plays a big role in blood clotting, and research indicates that it might also be beneficial for healthy bones. That’s why avocados are such a great choice. Just one offers up more than half the vitamin K you need in a day.

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is important for your immunity. It helps protect against a wide range of health problems from minor to acute. It’s also an antioxidant so it helps fight free radical damage in your body, which helps ward off things like cancer and heart disease. Avocados might not be the first thing you think of when you’re trying to boost your vitamin C intake, but they sure contribute to your daily needs.

5. Fiber

If you’re watching your weight, fiber is the nutrient you need to focus on. That’s because it fills your tummy for very few calories and digests slowly, keeping you full for hours. Fiber is also good for regulating digestion and controlling your cholesterol levels. Many people don’t get enough fiber and you’ll be amazed at what happens when you boost your intake. Adding avocados to your meal plan is an ideal way to do so.

6. Vitamin E

Vitamin E plays several roles in your body, including keeping your skin healthy, repairing bodily tissue and muscle function and development. It’s also an antioxidant, which means it helps fight off diseases and illnesses. You don’t need tons of vitamin E to meet the intake requirements, but if you’re looking to get more in your diet, avocados are a great way to fulfill the daily quota.

7. Magnesium

This nutrient plays a double role by keeping your bones strong and healthy as well as regulating your blood pressure. People who suffer from migraines often find that boosting their magnesium intake helps. I can’t think of a better remedy than a cool, creamy avocado. Can you?

Do you like avocados? What’s your favorite way to prepare them? I love to slice one in half, grill it for a couple of minutes, then fill the cavity with salsa and melted cheese. It makes a simple meal or a wonderful side dish. Did you know avocados were so healthy?