Research shows that avocados contain monounsaturated fats and beta-sitosterol, which can lower cholesterol levels naturally and interfere with cholesterol absorption. Avocados also contain oleic acid and omega-3s, which can increase HDL levels and lower triglycerides. These benefits can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Research has shown that there is a positive connection between avocado and cholesterol. This is largely due to the monounsaturated fats that avocados contain. Unlike many saturated fats that increase cholesterol levels, avocado fats have the ability to lower levels naturally. Another connection between avocado and cholesterol is beta-sitosterol, a plant sterol that interferes with the absorption of cholesterol in the intestinal tract.
Basically, there are two types of cholesterol within the bloodstream. One is known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the bad cholesterol associated with many health problems. The other is known as high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the good cholesterol that balances LDL. There is another type of fat in the blood known as very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), which is made up primarily of triglycerides. The LDL, HDL, and VLDL are summarized in the total cholesterol count.
Avocados are high in oleic acid and also contain moderate amounts of omega-3s. Many studies that have been done on avocado and cholesterol have shown that the healthy fat in avocado is effective in lowering LDL levels. One way these fats can do this is by increasing HDL levels so they can start working to break down LDL cholesterol.
Studies show that avocados can also help lower triglyceride levels. Triglycerides are stored in fat cells and are essential for good health as they can supply the body with a constant flow of energy. However, in excessive amounts, they can contribute to a high total cholesterol count by increasing the VLDL.
Another way that avocados help lower cholesterol levels is by interfering with the absorption of cholesterol from food. This interference is due to beta-sitosterol, which is the plant version of cholesterol. When it is present in the small intestine, it reduces the absorption of LDL cholesterol in this area. This reduced absorption directly links avocado and cholesterol, as it helps prevent LDL levels from rising to high levels.
Other avocado health benefits include a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. This is due in part to the beneficial connection between avocado and cholesterol, as high cholesterol levels increase the risk of plaque buildup and other problems surrounding the heart. Avocados also contain folic acid, which helps maintain normal levels of homocysteine in the bloodstream. It is an important amino acid that promotes good health when present in moderate amounts. In large amounts, however, it can be harmful to the heart.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
