10 Fun Facts About Avocados

Avocado is a fruit that has gained immense popularity in recent years. Known for its creamy texture and rich taste, avocados are delicious and packed with numerous health benefits. While many people know about avocados and their versatility, some lesser-known facts about this superfruit may surprise you. This blog post will uncover ten lesser-known facts about avocados that will make you appreciate them even more.

1. Avocados are berries, not vegetables

Contrary to popular belief, avocados are considered berries. Yes, you read that right! While they may not resemble the typical image of a berry, avocados belong to the berry family. Botanically speaking, a berry is a fruit that develops from a flower with one ovary and contains seeds. Avocados meet this criterion perfectly, making them a unique and delightful berry. Avocados have tough outer skin and a large seed in the centre. This unique characteristic classifies them as a type of berry. So, the next time you enjoy your avocado toast or guacamole, remember that you are indulging in a berry delicacy!

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2. Avocados have a long and fascinating history

Avocados have been around for centuries, with evidence of their cultivation dating back to as early as 5000 BC in Central and South America. Ancient civilisations such as the Aztecs and the Mayans revered avocados for their nutritional value and believed they possessed magical and aphrodisiac properties. The Aztecs considered avocados a fertility symbol and even used them as offerings during religious ceremonies.  Today, avocados have transcended time and borders to become a global favourite.

3. Avocados are a great source of healthy fats

When it comes to fats, the word itself often carries negative definitions. However, not all fats are created equal, and avocados are a prime example of healthy fats essential for our overall well-being. 

One of the key reasons avocados are considered a great source of healthy fats is their high content of monounsaturated fats. These fats are known to positively impact our health, particularly when it comes to reducing bad cholesterol levels and lowering the risk of heart disease. By incorporating avocados into your diet, you can take a proactive step towards maintaining a healthy heart.

But the benefits of avocados don’t stop there. These nutrient powerhouses also play a crucial role in absorbing fat-soluble vitamins. Vitamins A, D, E, and K are essential for various bodily functions, and avocados help maximise their absorption. By pairing avocados with other foods rich in these vitamins, you can ensure that your body gets the most out of these vital nutrients.

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4. Avocados ripen faster than other fruits

If you’re in a hurry to enjoy a perfectly ripe avocado, here’s a tip: store it with other fruits. Avocados release ethylene gas, a natural ripening agent that speeds up the ripening process. By placing an avocado alongside bananas, apples, or kiwis, the ethylene gas released by these fruits will accelerate the ripening of the avocado. However, if you want to slow the ripening process, keep your avocados away from other fruits.

5. Avocados are natural sunscreen

While avocados may not replace your sunscreen entirely, they provide some natural sun protection. Avocado oil contains antioxidants and vitamins that can help protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Additionally, the healthy fats in avocados can nourish and hydrate the skin, keeping it supple and glowing. So, the next time you head to the beach, load up on avocados to enhance your sun protection routine.

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6. The Hass avocado is the most popular variety

The Hass avocado, named after Rudolph Hass, who first cultivated it in the 1920s, is the most widely consumed avocado variety worldwide. Its creamy texture and rich flavour make it a favourite among avocado lovers.

7. Avocados are Nutrient Powerhouses

Avocados are not only tasty but also incredibly nutritious. They are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that offer numerous health benefits. Avocados are an excellent source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They are also rich in fibre, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Additionally, avocados contain a wide range of vitamins, such as K, E, and C, which contribute to overall well-being. So, next time you savour a slice of avocado, know you’re nourishing your body with goodness!

8. “Avocado” wasn’t its original name

Believe it or not, the word “avocado” was not the original name for this delectable fruit. The word “avocado” actually comes from the Spanish word “aguacate,” which itself is derived from the Nahuatl word “ahuacatl.” The Nahuatl people, who are indigenous to Mexico, were the first to cultivate avocados over 10,000 years ago. They considered avocados to be a sacred fruit, and it was even believed to have aphrodisiac properties.

9. Avocados may help lower your cholesterol

Avocados are not only delicious but they are also packed with nutrients that can benefit your health. One such benefit is their potential to lower cholesterol levels. Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, considered healthy fats that can help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels in the body. Additionally, avocados are a good source of dietary fibre, which can further contribute to maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. So, the next time you indulge in some guacamole, know you are also doing your heart a favour!

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10. Avocados can stay on the tree for as long as eighteen months and ripen once removed from the branch

Have you ever wondered why finding a perfectly ripe avocado at the grocery store is so hard? That’s because avocados have a unique ripening process. Unlike many fruits, avocados do not ripen until picked from the tree. Avocados can stay on the tree for as long as eighteen months and remain unripe. They begin to ripen when harvested and removed from the branch. This is why you often find hard avocados at the store, and it takes a few days for them to become soft and ready to eat.

In conclusion, avocados are not just tasty and versatile; they also have a fascinating history and a range of health benefits. Whether you enjoy them in salads, sandwiches, or as smooth and creamy guacamole, avocados offer a unique combination of deliciousness and nutrition. So, the next time you indulge in this incredible fruit, remember these lesser-known facts and appreciate the wonders of avocado.

References – 

https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/13-surprising-facts-about-avocados/

https://avocadosfrommexico.com/blog/nutrition/10-things-didnt-know-avocados-mexico/

https://bosskitchen.com/20-fun-facts-about-avocado/

https://lovepbco.com/en-nz/blogs/blog/5-reasons-avocados-are-amazing

https://supernutritious.net/what-is-the-nutritional-value-of-one-avocado-and-is-one-avocado-healthy-for-you/