FEATURED WHOLE FOOD: Avocado

Mexican Grande Avocados from my tree.

Many patients have told me over the years that they try to stay away from avocados, because it is "fattening".  Well, the truth is, the fruit itself does not make anyone fat. The honest truth is that avocados do contain a high amount of fat. The good news is that the type of fat this fruit contains is mostly monounsaturated fat. Monounsaturated fat is the heart healthy fat that does help in lowering our bad cholesterol. Therefore, no need to fear eating avocados JUST as long as it is consumed in moderation. (You'll notice that "moderation" is a word I love to use in talking about food.)

Another important nutrient avocados contain is potassium. Avocados contain a good amount of this important nutrient.  Potassium is involved in muscle activity. We lose potassium through producing sweat from running for more than an hour doing other prolonged aerobic activities.

For a post meal after those long runs, include avocados in small pieces in your salad.  Although avocado is considered a fruit, because it doesn't taste sweet, it lends itself to tasting more like a vegetable. Avocados also do taste delicious in a sandwich. Don't be afraid of the avocados!  Your heart will be thankful you had some. One more thing, there are a wide variety of avocados out there, so explore the wonderful world of avocados if you haven't already.

******
What is your favorite way of enjoying avocados?