Avocados are an excellent source of monounsaturated fat (good fat), which is simply burned through regular physical activity. The fat of an avocado is very helpful to the body because it lowers cholesterol! It never ceases to amaze me when I hear someone say they don't eat avocados because they are fattening. This accepted wisdom is absolutely absurd. Avocados are not fattening any more than nuts are fattening. In fact, avocados should be included in the diet of anyone who is concerned about their health.

The luscious avocado has more than twice the amount of potassium than a banana. Potassium is a very important mineral needed by the human body. Potassium is a natural anti-inflammatory and blood pressure regulator; therefore it is good for the body to receive good amounts of potassium for health. The curative properties of the avocado are absolutely amazing. For good heart and vein health nothing beats the incredible avocado.

And here is something else I bet you didn't know. As a topical agent the avocado is great for the skin and can be used as a weekly facial to clean the skin of impurities. Many natural cosmetic manufacturers use the oil of an avocado in their skin care products such as skin moisturizer, cleansing cream, makeup base, sunscreen, lipstick, bath oil, and hair conditioner. Avocado oil can also be used as a natural sunscreen. Among eight plant oils, avocado oil proved the most effective sunscreen (Swisher, 1988).

The buttery essence of the avocado enhances the flavor of many foods because of its mild, delicate flavor. Avocado can be eaten right out of its shell, or can be spread on whole grain toast and used in sandwiches. Below is a quick and easy guacamole recipe. Guacamole is great for dipping tortilla chips, or used as a side for nachos, burritos, black beans, pinto beans, enchiladas and other Latin American dishes.

Easy Guacamole Dip

2 ripe avocados

½ onion, minced

1 garlic clove, minced, 
  
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

½ teaspoon sea salt

1 to 2 teaspoons chili powder

½ lime or lemon juice

Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)

Mix all of the ingredients together and enjoy!