The avocado seed is encased in a hard shell. It is a rich source of phytochemicals which have antioxidant properties and have many health benefits. This highly nutritious component of a healthy diet contains much higher antioxidant, fiber and phenolic content than the flesh.
In a study published in Advances in Food Technology and Nutritional Sciences, a team of researchers from Penn State University has found that a compound in the avocado seed can inhibit inflammation. For this study, cell culture models and enzymes that are vital in immune response and inflammatory diseases were used. After examining the reaction of the macrophages – a class of immune cells – to the avocado seed compound, the results revealed that the compound can prevent the immune cell from producing pro-inflammatory proteins.
The researchers concluded that avocado seed extract can be beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as colitis, arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
Joshua Lambert, associate professor of food science and one of the study authors, says that:
“The level of activity that we see from the extract is very good. We saw inhibitory activity at concentrations in the low microgram-per-milliliter range, which is an acceptable amount of activity to justify further studies.”
Other Health Benefits Of Avocados Seeds
Improves Digestion And Ease Stomach And Bowel Problems
Avocado seeds contain antioxidants and an abundant amount of soluble fiber that can naturally prevent constipation and is beneficial for other digestive issues such as gastric ulcers, and diarrhea.
Helps Lowers High Blood Pressure
Since avocado seeds are packed with potassium, which is a good vasodilator, intake of it can help relax the tension of blood vessels and arteries, thereby lowering high blood pressure.
Helps Fight Cancer
Avocado seeds contain powerful antioxidants with anti-cancer properties, They have flavonols, a class of flavonoids that include compounds like quercetin, myricetin, and kaempferol. These antioxidants work by inhibiting and reducing tumor growth.
Helps Reduce Blood Sugar Levels
Avocados seed extract can be beneficial for people suffering from diabetes. It has minerals and phytochemicals that have anti-diabetic effects. Consumption of the extract can help reduce blood sugar levels.
Helps Boosts Immunity
Avocado seeds contain more than 70% of the antioxidants found in the entire fruit. These antioxidants can help us fight free radicals, thereby helping us boost our immune system and prevent bacterial, viral and fungal infections.
How To Prepare Avocado Seeds?
First, peel off the brown skin and let the seed dry. Grate the skin then put it in the oven. Bake it for about an hour at a low temperature. It’s not recommended to eat fresh seeds.
How To Incorporate Avocado Seeds In Our Daily Diet?
A Creamy Soup
Make a creamy soup with avocado pulp and sprinkle it with grated avocado seeds.
A Salad
Mix grated avocado seeds or avocado powder to vegetable salads. Eggs, boiled meat, or fish can also be added.
A Smoothie
Make a smoothie by mixing two cups of almond milk, 1 tsp of avocado seed powder, celery, spinach, and a banana. Consumption of a smoothie with avocado seed powder can help us boost our immune and protect our body during flu season.
