7 Health Benefits of Avocado During Fasting

Avocados are an excellent choice during fasting as they can help keep you full longer. Research suggests that the unsaturated fats in avocados contribute to prolonged satiety, making them a valuable addition to your fasting routine.

Avocados are packed with nutrients, including high levels of fiber, which support fasting by keeping you feeling satisfied for extended periods. They also contain essential vitamins like K, C, B, E, folate, and potassium, helping you stay healthy and energized.

1. Reduces Bad Cholesterol (LDL)
   Avocados can lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL) due to their monounsaturated fat content. They also help increase good cholesterol (HDL), thanks to the plant sterols in avocados that inhibit cholesterol absorption into the bloodstream. Additionally, avocados provide essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium, which can offset the negative effects of high-cholesterol and fatty foods often consumed during fasting. However, it’s important to consume avocados in moderation.
2. Supports Digestion
   The high fiber content in avocados aids digestion by promoting regular bowel movements, which can be especially beneficial during fasting when high-calorie, fatty foods are more commonly consumed. The fiber in avocados helps soften stool, making it easier to pass and preventing constipation. Additionally, fiber contributes to weight management and stabilizes blood sugar levels. The antioxidants in avocados also promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
3. Enhances Nutrient Absorption
   During fasting, it’s crucial to ensure that the body efficiently absorbs nutrients. Avocados, rich in healthy fats, improve the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients, including antioxidants, ensuring your body benefits fully from the nutrients consumed during meals.
4. Reduces Stress
   Fasting can be stressful, especially when combined with a busy lifestyle. Avocados can help mitigate stress by preventing excessive levels of homocysteine, a compound linked to stress. The nutrients in avocados, including those found in grape juice and apple cider vinegar, can support the body in managing stress during fasting.
5. Aids in Weight Loss
   Many people use fasting as an opportunity to achieve their ideal body weight. Avocados are particularly effective in this regard, as they help you feel full for longer periods, reducing the temptation to overeat. The fiber in avocados also supports weight loss by promoting satiety.
6. Assists in Detoxification
   Avocados are rich in fiber and antioxidants, such as glutathione, which aid in detoxifying the body by removing waste and cleansing the colon. The antioxidants in avocados also protect against aging and support skin and eye health. The high potassium content in avocados helps regulate blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure.
7. Promotes Heart and Liver Health
   Avocados contain about 60% monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help lower blood pressure. They are also rich in potassium, folate, and fiber, all of which support heart and liver function. These organs are vital to life, with the heart pumping blood throughout the body and the liver neutralizing toxins. Consuming high-fat foods and alcohol can damage the liver, but avocados can help protect and restore liver cells, ensuring it functions properly.

Avocado Protein Power Smoothie

This smoothie is a nutritious and filling option during fasting. The avocado and banana create a thick, satisfying texture, while the banana adds natural sweetness. Protein powder can be substituted with seeds or hemp hearts for a healthier protein source. Almond milk, or water if preferred, serves as a thinning agent and adds extra protein and healthy fats.

Ingredients:

• 1 small avocado, pitted and peeled
• 1 small banana, peeled and frozen
• 1 to 2 large handfuls of baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon hemp hearts
• ¼ cup pumpkin, sunflower, or chia seeds
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (add more if needed for desired consistency)
• ½ scoop vanilla protein powder

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the avocado, banana, spinach, hemp hearts, seeds, almond milk, and protein powder.
2. Blend until smooth, adjusting the texture with more almond milk or water as needed.
3. Pour the smoothie into a cup and enjoy.

Nutritional Information Per Serving:

• Protein: 16.39 g
• Fats: 28.63 g
• Carbohydrates: 36.27 g
• Sodium: 228 mg
• Sugar: 17.38 g