Avocados, also known as alligator pear or butter fruit, are a type of berry that grows in warm climates. They are reputed to have a lot of benefits when it comes to human health, and are strongly recommended by dieticians to be included in daily diets.

This fruit is strongly recommended to people pursuing a heart-healthy diet. Researchers have found that avocados may protect the heart in ways similar to olive oil and nuts. They are also rich in monounsaturated fat, fibre and potassium; all of which are associated with cardiovascular health. A 2018 analysis has also found an increase in HDL (protective cholesterol) in people who consumed an average of one to four avocados every day.

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The fruit is also proven to impact the gut biome, and consequently, improve heart health. It was observed in a recent study that adding avocados to daily diet significantly improves gut health due to the presence of dietary fiber. The fruit, normally, makes people feel full and reduces the blood cholesterol concentration. But, it also influences the gut microbes and the microbe produce. When included  daily in our meals, they helped in producing an abundance of gut microbes that break down fiber and produce metabolites that support gut health. Greater microbial diversity was also seen in people who received avocado meals every day. Sharon Thompson, a graduate student in the Division of Nutritional Science at U of I and lead author on the paper published in the Journal of Nutrition, stated that the reduced bile acids and increased short fatty acids correlate with beneficial health outcomes and avocado helps achieve this.

The National Health and Examination Survey study found that people who consumed avocados had significantly lower body weight, BMI and waist circumference when compared to non-consumers. Avocado continues to be a part of diet plans recommended by many nutritionists and doctors for its numerous health benefits.