Health benefits of Avocados

Promote good cardiovascular health:

Eating avocados regularly is a great way to increase levels of monounsaturated fatty acids. This can help to both reduce bad cholesterol. Avocados are also a rich source of vitamins, including vitamin E that helps to prevent oxidization and also potassium used by the body to regulate blood pressure.

Healthy glowing skin:

Avocados are also great for our skin, offering monounsaturated fats that actively improve skin tone and are essential for maintaining good moisture levels meaning your skin feels soft and supple.

Avocados and weight loss:

This may come as somewhat of a surprise that a food high in natural fats can help with weight loss, but avocados are high in a type of fatty acid that is more often used by our bodies as a form of slow release energy rather than stored as fat.   

Diabetes support:

In the UK there are currently over 4, 000,0000 people suffering from diabetes and that number is increasing every year. The most common symptoms of undiagnosed diabetes include a sudden and large increase in thirst or hunger and much more frequent urinating. A dry mouth, significant unexplained weight loss, vision problems and leg pain are also common symptoms. If you’re experiencing any of these issues then please see your doctor for a simple diabetes test.

Avocados for arthritis.

Avocados contain high levels of monounsaturated fats, antioxidants and an array of carotenoids all of which help to reduce inflammation that can lead to arthritis and other issues with joints.

The range of benefits that avocados offer our bodies a staggering

So why not start including avocados in your diet today? 

A healthy start to 2014

It’s my first day back in the office after a much needed Christmas break. Although it was a highly relaxing couple of weeks I must admit that after eating more than my fair share of chocolates and other unhealthy treats I’m currently feeling slightly slow and sluggish to say the least. As this same story plays out all across the country what can be done to help lose those winter pounds and get fit and healthy for summer?

• Eat colorful foods – This may sound obvious but over the last month or so I have noticed that a huge amount of the food I was consuming seemed to be a shade beige. By increasing the amount of colorful fresh fruit and vegetables we eat its possible to increase our body’s supply of vitamins and minerals as well as helping to lose weight.

• Get active – This really doesn’t have to be a daunting task, exercise can consist of as little as a walk to the shops, but if you’re willing to work harder than a little effort can really pay off. Some of the best ways to get active for people just starting out include: Bike rides, swimming and gentle jogs.

• Stay positive – A positive mental attitude can go a long way. By trying our best to avoid situations likely to increase stress levels we can help our bodies to heal quicker as well as having a positive impact on our mental and emotional well-being

• A new hobby – This can be an integral part of starting a fresh new year. Many people go through life without any real hobbies instead spending their time working or relaxing in front of a TV. Whilst this is fine a lot of joy and self worth can come from the feeling of productivity and creativity both associated with the uptake of a new hobby.

• Social times – Life can sometimes get dull and without friends.  Research has shown that social interaction offers older adults many benefits. Staying socially active and maintaining interpersonal relationships can help you maintain good physical and emotional health and cognitive function.

These five simple things in combination should be enough to kick start your new year. Good Luck.