Avocado seeds have been habitually thrown away by modern society even though they take up more than 18% of the fruit.
However, after observing the use of avocado seeds by the American Indian culture to cure digestive disorders such as ulcers, gastroenteritis and flatulence, a number of studies were conducted to prove the multiple health claims that it had gained for centuries. The discoveries revealed more than anyone could have ever expected from the humble avocado seed!
As it turns out, avocado seeds contain incredible health benefits and are a rich source of fiber, antioxidants and disease-preventative compounds.
In 2003 the University of Singapore conducted a study to observe the antioxidant compound in tropical fruit seeds and found that they contained more than 70% antioxidant value than the fruit itself. Avocado seeds were one of the top choices for antioxidant power, which makes them an excellent way to combat aging, cellular deterioration and oxidative stress in the body.
In 2009 the Brazilian Society of Tropical Medicine analyzed the effect of avocado seed extract on bacteria and fungi and candida. The test tube study revealed that avocado seeds are able to successfully inhibit pathogens such as fungal bacteria and candida, as well as having the added benefit of inhibiting the spread of yellow fever.
The most recent study took place in April 2015, where Canadian and Italian scientists gathered to study the effect of avocado seed extract on cancer cells, with a particular focus on preventing the spread of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) cells. AML is a cancer which develops in bone marrow and then spreads into the bloodstream in the form of leukemia. It was found that not only did avocado seed extract destroy AML cells, but it also had absolutely no negative side effect on normal blood cells, which is something that chemotherapy cannot offer.
What Makes an Avocado Seed So Powerful?
The incredible dose of antioxidants contained in each avocado seed has multiple health benefits as it reduces free radical damage and oxidative stress caused by pollution, food chemicals and the sun’s harmful UV rays. Antioxidants help to reduce aging on a cellular level, which helps to keep the heart, brain and entire body healthy.
It also contains an intense dose of soluble fiber, which helps to lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure and eliminates toxins and disease from the body. Dietary fiber is essential in maintaining a healthy digestive system as it helps to reduce constipation, flatulence, inflammation and improves nutrient absorption.
A physician who has been honored by both the American Cancer Society and the United Nations, Dr. Tom Wu, has confirmed that avocado seeds contain the highest amounts of soluble fiber compared to any other natural food source.
The seed is also full of essential fatty acids and avocado oil, which helps to nourish joints, bones and skin tissue. It further helps to increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels, keeping the heart at a low risk for heart disease, stroke and heart failure. Avocado oil has also proven to be excellent for hair, helping to nourish follicles for long and strong hair.
Chronic inflammation can lead to multiple diseases and painful ailments and avocado seeds are exactly what your body needs to fight it. They contain catechins and procyanidins, which are powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce arthritis, hypertension and other inflammatory diseases.
Lastly, the California Avocado Society has confirmed that avocado seeds are a rich source of potassium, which helps to reduce muscle cramps and helps the body to maintain fluid balance, eliminating water retention and toxin buildup.
How Can You Include Avocado Seeds in Your Diet?
Avocado seeds are not as hard to dissect as one might think: simply slice it into quarters and then add it to your regular smoothie for an incredible boost in nutrition.
Alternatively, add the quarters to a blender or grinder and make into a powder for future use. Its tannins give it a bitter taste, so it’s best to add to smoothies, cereals or fruit juice. You can also grate it and use it as a garnish on salads or in soups, sauces and creative meals.
Half an avocado seed gives you sufficient benefits to count as one full serving.
More Posts By Author Sophie Robinson.
