Anti-inflammatory

This superfood is anti-inflammatory and won’t make you gain weight

Avocados are more than just a trend, it's a fruit that's great for your heart, skin, and overall health

MARCH 6, 2025 5:34 PM ESTMAR 6, 2025, 5:34 PM EST

Avocados are one of the most trendiest fruits today and not just because of their creamy texture and delicious taste but also for their incredible health benefits. Packed with essential nutrients, this superfood is a must-have in your daily diet. Whether you enjoy it in your morning toast, blended into a smoothie, or as a topping on your favorite dish, avocados offer a powerhouse of health perks without the guilt.

But their benefits go beyond the kitchen—avocados also play a role in skincare and hair care, thanks to their nutrient-rich composition. Keep reading to discover why avocados are a top choice for overall well-being, according to experts and the World Avocado Organization (WAO).

Is avocado a fruit or a vegetable?

Despite its mild, creamy flavor, avocado is actually a fruit—more specifically, a drupe, like peaches and olives, because it has a large seed inside.

The nutritional benefits of avocados

Avocados aren’t just tasty—they’re packed with nutrients that support overall health. Here’s what makes them a superfood, according to the WAO and recent studies:

Rich in heart-healthy fats – Avocados are high in monounsaturated fats, which help regulate cholesterol and support heart health.
High in fiber – They aid digestion and promote a longer-lasting feeling of fullness.
Loaded with antioxidants – With vitamin E and carotenoids, avocados help protect cells from oxidative stress.
Potassium powerhouse – Avocados contain 40% more potassium than bananas, supporting muscle function and fluid balance.
Essential vitamins – They’re packed with vitamin C, K, and B-complex vitamins (B2, B3, B6, and B9/folate), which are key for metabolism and immune support.

Are avocados anti-inflammatory?

Yes! Avocados are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Thanks to their combination of healthy fats, antioxidants, and polyphenols, they help reduce inflammation. These makes them beneficial for people with arthritis, heart conditions, and other chronic inflammatory diseases.

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that the monounsaturated fats in avocados can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and improve arterial health, reducing the risk of heart disease.

Do avocados make you gain weight?

One of the biggest misconceptions about avocados is that they cause weight gain due to their calorie content. However, according to the WAO, this is a myth.

Half an avocado contains around 114 calories, but its healthy fats and fiber promote satiety and support metabolism, making it a smart choice for weight management.

In a study of 105 overweight adults, participants who ate one avocado per day for 12 weeks experienced better fat distribution and maintained a healthy weight.

Nutrition expert Kerry Torrens also emphasizes that the fats in avocados help curb cravings and keep you feeling full longer, making them a great addition to a balanced diet.

Avocado’s beauty benefits

Avocados aren’t just a kitchen staple—they’re also a game-changer for skincare and haircare. According to the WAO, the pulp, seed, and even skin of an avocado can be used for natural beauty treatments:

Hydrating face masks – Packed with vitamin E and healthy fats, avocado is perfect for dry or sensitive skin.
Natural exfoliant – Crushed avocado seeds make an effective scrub for removing dead skin cells.
Under-eye treatment – Applying avocado skin to the eye area can help reduce puffiness.
Deep-conditioning hair mask – Avocado nourishes and repairs dry, damaged hair.
Intense hydration for hands and feet – Rubbing avocado skin on dry areas provides deep moisture.

The bottom line

With its anti-inflammatory properties, heart-healthy fats, and impressive nutrient profile, avocado is a true superfood that deserves a spot in your daily routine—whether in your meals or your skincare regimen. So go ahead and enjoy this creamy, delicious, and ultra-nutritious fruit without any guilt!