The Benefits of Avocado Seeds and How to Incorporate Them into Your Diet

Avocado seeds have long been used in Ayurvedic recipes to control high blood pressure. This knowledge was almost forgotten, but today, there’s a growing interest in using avocado seeds for their various health benefits. You no longer should discard the seed but save it for its various health benefits and overall well-being.

Potential Health Benefits of Avocado Seeds

1. Great source of Antioxidants: Avocado seeds are packed with antioxidants, specifically phenolic compounds, that combat oxidative stress in the body. These reduce inflammation, lower the risk of chronic diseases, and support heart health.
2. Fiber Rich: Dietary fibre that is great for digestive health. It regulates bowel movement, prevents constipation, and promotes a healthy gut microbiome. It also makes you feel full, you eat less and so manage your weight better.
3. Anti-inflammatory Properties. Studies have shown that the seeds have anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation causes heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis, so anti-inflammatory foods like avocado seeds have long-term health benefits.
4. Lowering Cholesterol: Ayurvedic recipes promote avocado tea for this aspect. Avocado seeds contain compounds that lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. By reducing cholesterol, these seeds keep your cardiovascular system healthy and prevent heart disease.
5. Support Immune Function: All the above factors mean that avocado seeds increase immunity, which means that your body fights infections and illnesses.

How to Incorporate Avocado Seeds into Your Diet

1. Avocado Seed Powder: The most common way to consume avocado seeds is to turn them into a powder. To do this, clean the seed, dry it, remove the seed skin, and grind it into a fine powder. Pound it or use a high-powered blender or food processor. Add this powder to your smoothies and soups, or sprinkle it over salads.
2. ‘Pap’ or ‘ugali’: Some recipes are part of many Africans’ diets. These include pap or ugali. Stiff porridge is a staple in most African households and presents a unique way to add the powder or boil the seed in the water used and reap its benefits.
3. Smoothies: Adding the powder to your smoothie is an easy way to incorporate it into your diet. Start with a small amount, as the taste can be bitter. Blend it with sweet fruits like bananas and berries and a touch of honey to balance the flavour.
4. Tea: Make tea by boiling the seed minus the peel in water for about 30 minutes. After boiling, let it steep, then strain and enjoy it as a warm, antioxidant-rich beverage. For more flavour, add a little honey or lemon.
5. Baked Goods and porridge: Combine the powder into dough and batter for baked goods like muffins and energy bars. Start with small quantities, as the texture and flavour may differ from traditional recipes.
6. Soups and Stews: Add a small amount of avocado powder to soups or stews for a subtle nutritional boost. The powder blends well with savoury dishes, enhancing the meal’s overall nutrient content.

See how you can make avocado seed dye

Conclusion

While avocado seeds are gaining popularity for their potential health benefits, it’s essential to approach their consumption with caution due to limited research on their long-term effects. When introducing new and unconventional foods into your diet, start with small amounts and observe how your body responds.