You probably know that eating an avocado is good for you, but surprisingly, its seed offers a multitude of benefits too. Instead of tossing it out next time, grind it into a fine powder using a powerful food processor with sharp blades – don’t try tossing it into a standard blender or a weak processor as the seed is very dense and can easily damage it.
The powder can be used in just about any smoothie to add potent health benefits like these:
Anti-aging
Studies have found that avocado seeds are a rich source of bioactive phytochemicals that can help keep free radicals at bay, which helps to slow the aging process. Consuming avocado seeds can also help reduce the appearance of age spots and wrinkles, due to their ability to rebuild collagen underneath the skin so it stays firm and youthful.
Fighting the flu
With such powerful antioxidants, avocado seeds are also known to help strengthen the immune system, which can protect you during the cold and flu season in addition to helping fight off all types of disease and illness. In fact, the seeds contain even more antioxidants the the fruit flesh of the avocado.
Supporting heart health
The potent antioxidants in an avocado seed have the ability to help reduce high cholesterol levels and
may prevent a number of heart conditions such as heart disease and stroke. According to a study published in the March 2012 issue of the journal Plant Foods in Human Nutrition, consuming avocado seeds helps to protect against arterial plaque formation.
Researchers attributed these benefits to the seed’s high content of dietary fiber, which helps to lower cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol in the intestinal tract and preventing absorption. The antioxidant activity is also thought to contribute by inhibiting lipid oxidation, a process that leads to arterial plaque formation.
Anti-inflammatory
Avocado seeds have excellent anti-inflammatory abilities, which can help ease the pain of arthritis and other joint diseases, as well as swelling in the gastrointestinal tract. The seeds are also known to help relieve constipation and diarrhea.
Weight management
These superseeds are also known to help lower blood glucose levels and to maintain a healthy weight. They may even help to stave off food cravings by making you feel fuller and more satisfied, which can prevent unhealthy snacking.
Now you’ll never want to toss away that nearly magical, wonderful seed!
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23448442
http://www.livestrong.com/article/31737-eat-avocado-seeds-nutrition
http://omtimes.com/2012/10/13-great-benefits-of-eating-avocado-seeds
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22383066
