Avocados are a great addition to a balanced diet. A 100-gram serving is full of nutrients and vitamins and free of sodium and cholesterol. This snack has only 160 calories and is rich and potassium and fiber.
Fat Content
Although avocados are high in fat content, almost all of that is "good" fat. Of the 15 grams of fat in a 100-gram serving, 13 grams are unsaturated. According to the American Heart Association unsaturated fats have been shown to decrease blood cholesterol levels if they are used to replace saturated fats.
Boost Carotenoids
According to the California Avocado Commission, avocados assist the body in absorbing fat-soluble carotenoids. Carotenoids are healthy nutrients often found in vegetables. Including avocado in a salad or soup with other vegetables will increase the amount of nutrients absorbed.
Potassium
Potassium is an element that is included in the American Heart Association's dietary recommendations. It plays a part in body growth and health. A 100-gram serving of avocado contains 485 mg of potassium, which is 14 percent of the recommended daily amount.
Folate
Folate, an important vitamin, has been shown in studies presented by the American Heart Association to possibly reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease. A 100-gram serving of avocado has 20 percent of the recommended daily allowance of the nutrient.
Fiber
Fiber is another important dietary staple according to the American Heart Association. Avocados are rich in fiber, containing 6.7 grams or 27 percent of the recommended daily amount in one 100-gram serving. Fiber is important for both digestion and for lowering blood cholesterol levels.
Other Nutrients
Avocados are also a good source of beta-carotene, iron, protein, and vitamins E, C and A. They also contain essential minerals such as magnesium, manganese, copper and phosphorous.
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