My ideal way of eating avocado is it buried in 7-layer chip dip; I just can’t bring myself to eat avocado plain. However, after reviewing a recent study, maybe I’ll try and change my opinion. A study from Loma Linda University shows that avocado may increase satiety (feeling full or satisfied) when eaten during lunch. This study involved 26 healthy but overweight adults were used in this study. Those who ate half of a fresh avocado during lunch reported a decreased desired to eat by 40% within a three hour window after lunch compared to those who didn’t eat avocado. This could be helpful to those who are trying to lose weight. Also note that avocados did increase their kcal intake by 112, this could also contribute to feeling satisfied for longer. Increased satiety means less chance of snacking between meals. If you like snacking on sugary foods,adding avocado may be beneficial because it would decrease the desire to snack, therefore reducing the amount of sugar snacks in your diet.
Avocados contain 8% daily value of fiber and 3 grams total carbohydrate. The fat content of avocados is high, but with healthy monounsaturated fats. Keep in mind this study was funded by Hass Avacado Board who represent domestic producers and importers of Hass Avocados–don’t think they’re not trying to sell their product. On the bright side, unless your somehow allergic to avocados, they won’t hurt you; so you could try eating some during lunch and see if this helps you feel full longer.
