Contrary to what many athletes may believe, the avocado is a food that helps you keep in shape. The fact that it contains fat deters many from eating it, when in fact they should—in moderation, of course! Avocados are rich in good fat and deliver a number of other benefits as well.
Here are just a few:
Avocados help build muscle…
Did you know that one avocado can contain up to 4 g of protein? That makes it the fruit with the highest protein content. What’s more, it’s rich in folic acid (aka vitamin B9), which plays an important role in absorbing protein. What better way to stimulate muscle growth! And that’s not all. Folic acid helps regulate certain hormones, including the growth hormone, which also promotes muscle development.
Bananas may be best known for their potassium content, but avocados contain about twice as much! When part of a balanced diet, potassium is another nutrient that contributes to muscle recovery. What more could you ask?
…and reduce body fat
It’s true. In addition to helping build muscle, avocados contribute to reducing body fat. Avocados contain beta-sitosterol, a lipid that helps regulate stress while promoting the proper functioning of our body. With their high content of natural fiber, avocados fill us up quickly and aid in controlling our blood glucose level, making it easier for us to maintain a healthy weight!
So for all you athletes out there, the time is ripe to make avocados part of your diet!
Get inspired with our healthy avo-recipes here!
