Avocado
Persea americana
Description
Creamy fruit rich in healthy fats. Consumed in salads, smoothies, or guacamole. In Brazil, it is uniquely eaten sweet with sugar.
Benefits
Source of omega-9 (oleic acid) and Vitamin E. Reduces LDL cholesterol and improves cardiovascular health.
History and Origins
Avocado originated in Mexico and Central America, cultivated for over 7,000 years by civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans. Its name comes from Nahuatl "ahuacatl". It arrived in South America in the 19th century and spread widely.
Fun Facts
Did you know there are over 500 varieties of avocado? And technically, it is a berry, not a fruit? In Japan, it is called "forest butter"!
What are the varieties of Avocado?
Popular varieties: Hass (dark, rough skin), Fuerte (green, smooth), Margarida (giant), Breda (common in Brazil), and Ouro Verde (disease resistant).
Nutritional Values per 100g of Avocado
| Calories | 160 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 14.7 g |
| Fiber | 4.2 g |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
Harvest Months
Harvest months listed here correspond to the Southern Hemisphere.
Medical Disclaimer: The health benefits of this fruit are provided for educational purposes only and do not substitute for professional medical diagnosis or advice. Read more about our sources.