Avocado - our friend or foe?

It's time to do avocado some justice. First of all, avocado is a fruit, not a vegetable. 75% of the calories comes from fat, 19% from carbohydrates and the rest from protein. Some people might scream when they here that so much fat is involved, but it's the 'good' fat. The monounsatuated fat, which lowers cholesterol. Avocado also contains more than 20 vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, which helps to prevent chronic diseases. Studies have shown that a little fat can help to absorb other nutrients, so a little goes a long way.

Now why does avocado get such bad rep? Because it's 'fatty'? But it's much better than the satuated fat from your diner burger or the greasy fries. A fifth of a medium-sized avocado has about 50 calories, where as a small pat of butter has about 100 calories already and let's not forget the nutritions that are being offered by this fruit.

Before, I may shun from anything that links with 'fat', like olive oil, avocado, or nuts/seeds. But now, I embraced them because I realized that a little goes a long way. I actually find my appetite lasts a bit longer when my dish includes a little fat in it. I often like to end a meal with a few almonds to satiate my hunger or throw in a few beans as well.

There are so many culinary ways to use avocado, such as a spread on your sandwich, guacamole (of course), topping on soups or even an avocado shake! I've even heard of an avocado face mask! That I need to try out someday. But for now, I crave the green creaminess from this amazing fruit. I love to 'massage' it into my salads instead of using salad dressing. Even in the restaurant, I ask to sub avocado for the cheese too. Unfortunately, my dining companions still have evil connotation of my avocado, but who cares, I know it's good for me as long as I don't over do it (as for all types of food).

It's time to recognize the health benefits and the deliciousness of this forgotten fruit - avocado.

How do you use your avocado?