The scientific name of avocado is Persea gratissima gaertn. Other synonyms are alligator pear, Zuttano and fuerte. Its tree is normally evergreen and of height of 16 metres.
It contains 74.2% or less of water. It is very low compared to other fruits. It also contains fats which are of high biological value and unsaturated. These fats contain no cholesterol. Avocado has protein content of essential amino acids. It is very rich in vitamin E, iron, vitamin B6, fiber. Avocado also contains some amounts of carbohydrate, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, zinc and sodium as well.
Benefits of Consuming Avocado
- It lowers cholesterol in people who have high or excess cholesterol in their bodies.
- It helps in the cases of circulatory disorders conditions such as arteriosclerosis, hypertension, and coronary heart disease in general.
- Helps to increase the blood level of people who are anemic because it is very rich in iron.
- It is advised that people suffering from nervousness, irritability, or depression are encouraged to eat avocado because it contains fat that necessitate the metabolism of the nervous system.
- Because of the alkanity, emollient and protective effects of their fats on the mucosa of avocados it is advised that people suffering from stomach ulcers or gastritis.
- It is very healthy. It helps in the rapid growth of children, adolescent. It is also good for athletes, exhausted or stressed adults, the elderly who are seeking to be healthy in increasing their vitality.
- It has also been proven that it is good for women who are pregnant since it facilitates the growth and the weight of the foetus or the baby.
Studies show that eating avocados is appropriate for diabetics since they help maintain an appropriate glycemia level (blood glucose) and lower cholesterol