Avocado oil is the edible oil pressed from the fleshy pulp of avocados. Avocado oil can be used for both cooking and cosmetic purposes. Its unusually high smoking point and aromatic flavor make it suitable for both high temperature frying and grilling, as well as an emulsifying salad oil. Nutritionally, avocado oil ranks comparably to olive oil with a copious amount monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. It is also loaded with proteins, lecithin, beta-carotene and vitamins A, D and E.
The following are the top 5 health advantages you can expect from using avocado oil:
1. Controls and Modifies Blood Cholesterol
The number one value of avocado oil is its ability to protect your cardiovascular system. Avocado oil is extremely rich in monounsaturated oleic acid (OA). OA can inhibit the absorption of dietary cholesterol and triglyceride by blocking their transport into your bloodstream. Studies have proved that consumption of OA can reduce your blood concentration of low density lipoproteins (LDL) and triglyceride, efficiently lowering your potentials for plaque formation and vessel blockage. OA can also raise your high density lipoprotein (HDL) level, which further protects you from cardiovascular diseases.
2. Improves Blood Vessel Integrity
Avocado oil contains a balanced proportion of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids, along with vitamin E have powerful antioxidant properties which can protect your blood vessels by binding and removing free radicals and cholesterol deposits and reducing your risk of blood vessel damage. The binding of these antioxidants to your blood vessel lining also makes your vessel wall stronger and more flexible so that they respond better to sudden changes of blood pressure. Studies have shown that regular intake of avocado oil can significantly lower your risk of arterial thrombosis and coronary heart disease.
3. Prevents Cancer
Alpha linolenic acid (ALA), the omega-3 fatty acid in avocados, has been found to suppress tumor growth in breast and colon cancers. Vitamin E is another anti-cancerous agent. It has been found effective in both prevention and treatment of skin cancer and prostate cancer. Evidences also show that the combination of vitamin E and beta-carotene can drastically lower the risks of lung and other cancers in smokers.
4. Promotes Faster Healing and Better Skin Quality
Vitamin A, D and E are all involved in skin cell growth and regeneration. Vitamin A and E have strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory functions that promote faster healing of cuts and wounds, and prevent scarring, acne breakouts and dermatitis. They also give you natural sun protection. Studies have shown that both intake and topical application of avocado oil can reduce the appearance of age spots, fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin A and D can promote collage production and binding–the intake or application of which can effectively slow down your skin’s aging process.
5. Moisturizes Hair and Skin
Avocado oil is a great source of lecithin. This yellowing fatty substance acts as a super emulsifier and lubricant. When applied topically, lecithin forms a protective covering on your hair follicles and your skin’s surface, effectively preventing the loss of moisture due to wind and climate damage. Avocado oil is also high in sterolin which can be used as a softener or moisturizer in hair and skin care.
Avocado Oil Nutrition
Serving: 1 TBS (14g)
Calories: 124
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.9g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.9g
Trans Fats: 0g
Total Omega-3 fatty acids: 134mg
Total Omega-6 fatty acids: 1754mg
Estimate Glycemic Load: 0
Inflammation Factor: Mildly anti-inflammatory
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