Avocados are often referred to as a “superfood,” and a recent study has investigated how this fruit affects cardiovascular health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 18 million people die from cardiovascular diseases each year. It is well-known that diet plays a significant role in influencing the risk of these diseases. Researchers from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health have examined whether avocados, which are considered a superfood, can also affect the risk of heart attacks.
The scientists analyzed health data from over 110,000 people collected over 30 years as part of the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study. Along with information on diseases, the data also included the participants’ dietary habits. The researchers found that consuming one avocado per week (160 grams) significantly reduced the risk of cardiovascular diseases by 16%. The risk of coronary heart disease also decreased significantly (21%) due to the consumption of this healthy food. People who replaced half a serving of animal products with an avocado reduced their risk of cardiovascular diseases by 16 to 22%.
The positive effects of avocados on health are mainly due to their essential fatty acids. 160 grams of this fruit contain about 100 grams of fat. Additionally, avocados contain numerous vitamins that the body cannot produce on its own. “Health practitioners such as registered dietitians should recommend that their patients replace certain spreads and foods high in saturated fats, such as cheese and processed meats, with avocados,” explains study author Lorena Pacheco.
In conclusion, this study provides evidence that avocados can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The findings suggest that incorporating this superfood into one’s diet can have a positive impact on overall health.
