When you think of avocado, guacamole is likely the first thing that comes to mind. While that’s certainly a great way to use this super food, there are many more avocado advantages than you may realize. In addition to being delicious in a wide variety of recipes, the avocado is high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, making it the perfect addition to your health and beauty routine.
In fact, avocados contain almost 20 essential nutrients, including potassium, Vitamin E, B vitamins, and fiber. When contained in other foods, they also facilitate your body’s absorption of fat-soluble nutrients, such as beta-carotene.
Makes a great face mask
A mashed-up avocado can make a great face mask. If your skin is oily, add the juice of a fresh lemon if you’d like. Apply the mixture to your face and throat, leave it on for 10 minutes,then remove it with a warm, wet washcloth.
Enhances your shampoo
Grate a few avocado pits, boil the shreds in water,then strain and add to a few ounces of shampoo. Shake well before you shampoo your hair, and the addition of avocado will help repair damage and increase volume.
Makes mashed cauliflower even healthier
If you’re dieting but want to enjoy a serving of mashed cauliflower, use some avocado to cut the calories and fat of butter and cream. Check out our blog on Garlic Mashed Mocktatoes for a delicious recipe you can add avocado to!
Improves your complexion
Drink your way to a better complexion by downing a cup of avocado juice a day. Blend a ripe avocado with a cup of milk, and add some honey if you’d like to sweeten it a bit. Blend an avocado with leafy greens for a nutritious and filling smoothie.
Can be substituted for mayonnaise
If you need a spread, skip the fatty, high-calorie, salt-laden mayonnaise and add some smooth avocado instead. You’ll get a creamy dose of nutrients and some nice flavor in the process. Throw in some tomatoes for extra flavor and fun!
Gives your immune system a boost
Make tea by chopping up an avocado pit and putting it into a tea diffuser with boiling water. When you’re ready to drink it, add a little honey. The antioxidants will help give your immune system a boost!
Exfoliates and moisturizes your hands
Mix avocado with some finely ground oats or sugar and you’ll have a homemade hand scrub that will exfoliate, moisturize and nourish your skin. Rub the mixture gently into your hands and leave it on for five minutes before rinsing it off.
Removes makeup
Remove eyeliner and mascara by using a cotton ball with some avocado oil on it. This technique serves double duty by removing your makeup as well as moisturizing and refreshing the skin around your eyes.
Lowers cholesterol
An avocado is a great snack choice when you’re tempted to nosh on something that might not be as healthy. It provides your body with antioxidants and healthy fats that can help lower your cholesterol levels and keep your cardiovascular system working as it should.
Improves blood sugar levels
The good fats in avocados assist your body in using insulin more effectively, and the superfood’s soluble fiber may also help regulate your blood sugar levels.
Makes your nails healthier
If you massage your nails and cuticles with avocado oil once a day, your nails will soon become stronger and healthier.
We hope you can find a way to add these avocado advantages to your own life. If you would like to learn more about creating a healthier you, contact BMI of Texas.
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