Avocado is another of these atypical foods. In several ways. First of all because it is one of the few fruits in whose nutritional composition the main macronutrient is fat, instead of the usual carbohydrates, which gives it a high energy density of almost 700 kJ (160 kilocalories) per hundred grams. Most of it is monounsaturated fat, so its effect on health is beyond suspicion and the exceptional amount of micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and fibre it also provides is well known. But the truth is that, despite the praise that comes with it, it is also often recommended to eat in moderation in weight loss processes, because of the commented calories that accompany it.
Since to date there was not much meaningful evidence on its relationship to obesity, little could be added to this, but fortunately, that evidence is beginning to emerge. The study "Avocado consumption is associated with better diet quality and nutrient intake, and lower metabolic syndrome risk in US adults: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001--2008" has just been published. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) has analysed the relationship between various indicators and this tasty fruit by observing more than 17,000 people over eight years.
With all the precautions that must be taken in a single observational study, the results are clearly positive. They indicate that people who eat more avocado have a better diet, more nutrients, less risk of metabolic syndrome and less weight. Yes, less weight, despite all its calories.
Regarding possible intervention trials, the only one I have found is "A randomized 3×3 crossover study to evaluate the effect of Hass avocado intake on post-ingestive satiety, glucose and insulin levels, and subsequent energy intake in overweight adults" (2013), a small study in which the effect of adding half an avocado to the diet was analysed. The researchers found that their intake increased satisfaction and satiety and reduced the insulinemic response after mealtime. In addition, the final calorie balance was not negatively affected, i.e. no more calories were ingested when eating ad-libitum.
So you know, for the moment you can incorporate it into your meals without fear. If you spend a little time searching for recipes online, you'll be amazed at how many delicious ways you can take them.
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