Produce of the Month

The produce of the month for November has become a fashion statement . This month’s produce of the month is Hass Avocado. Hass avocadoes are delicious fruit which, when ripe have a slightly sweet, creamy, nutty, savoury, earthy and rich flavour.

Avocados are not just a superficial trendy food but a nutrition powerhouse for your body. An avocado can boast being:

1. A source of heart healthy fat. Avocado is a good source of monounsaturated fat. This type of fat helps to lower your ‘bad’ LDL -cholesterol. As a source of fat, it also helps your body in other ways too. Fat is needed by your body for normal hormone production and is needed to provide healthy cushioning for your organs and for the soles of your feet.
2. Avocados help promote the health of your gut and a healthy gut microbiome. Fibre also helps support healthy blood pressure, keeps you feeling fuller for longer and supports optimal digestion. A medium size avocado will give your body approximately 14g of dietary fibre. An adult needs between 25-38g of dietary fibre a day.
3. Avocados are rich in vitamins and minerals including:
4. Vitamin E – A fat-soluble vitamin which acts as an antioxidant. Vitamin E supports the health of your skin.
5. Vitamin C – A water-soluble vitamin which is needed for optimal immune system functioning and is needed to make collagen. Collagen helps your skin and ligaments to stay healthy and your skin looking youthful.
6. Folate (Vitamin B9) – A water soluble vitamin which is needed to make and repair DNA.
7. Potassium – a mineral which helps to lower your blood pressure and keep your heart healthy. It is needed to nerve and muscle function. A fun fact is that avocados have more potassium than a banana!
8. Vitamin K – Another fat-soluble vitamin which is needed for your blood to clot normally.

My favourite way to enjoy avocado is mashed on top of a Corn Thins slice with tuna and chilli flakes. Perfection! Get on board with the produce of the month of September and remember to add this fruit to your shopping list.