Avocado Superfood

Today I will be highlighting a particular food that packs a lot of nutrients and is one that you always want to have on hand.

Today's spotlight is on avocados.  They are a creamy superfood and are loaded with potassium, magnesium, folate, vitamin C and E, and monosaturated fats. According to studies, people who regularly consume avocados had smaller waists than those who did not. Avocados have lots of healthy fats that help to make you feel full and to curb the desire to snack between meals.

It's great that avocados have all of these wonderful attributes but what does magnesium, folate, or any of those healthy nutrients actually do for us?

Magnesium helps to maintain normal nerve and muscle function, supports a healthy immune system, keeps the heart beat steady, and helps bones remain strong. It also helps regulate blood glucose levels and aid in the production of energy and protein. 

Folate, also known as folic acid plays an important role in the production of red blood cells and helps your baby's neural tube develop into her brain and spinal cord
     This website also lists many great reasons why folate is important for us, including sperm viability, reducing the risk of stroke and decreasing risks for colon cancer.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant and helps produce red blood cells. It also helps widen blood vessels and keep blood from clotting inside the vessels.

Vitamin C is good for your skin, bones, and teeth.  It helps to repair tissue and to make collagen. It also helps to heal wounds.


My favorite way to incorporate avocados

I love avocados in so many different ways.  I usually just add them into steamed vegetables or alongside of brown rice or quinoa. Avocado toast is another popular way to eat avocados.  Just toast some bread and spread a little butter on and top with an avocado, either in slices or mashed.  I also enjoy a little sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top. At times I have also put avocado in smoothies for my kiddos.  You really can't go wrong with avocados and their versatility makes them a staple in our home.