Anti-aging Agent
Unrefined avocado oil has been shown to increase soluble collagen content in skin due to antioxidant activity. (2)
What’s special about avocado’s antioxidants is that they are able to penetrate cell walls, inhibiting oxidation within skin cells. (3)
Most other antioxidants found in vegetables and fruits do not permeate individual cells. Avocados also moderate cholesterol and protect from cancer and heart disease, maintaining inner health.
Nutrition
One of the healthiest sources of saturated fat (which is used by every cell in the body for fuel—especially the brain), avocados increase the bioavailability of nutrients from other foods as their fatty acids carry them around the body. The little green wonders are also rich in a multitude of essential nutrients:
- Boron
- Calcium
- Fiber
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Vitamins – B complex, C, E, K
Enough about the creamy green stuff. Now for the chocolate.
Raw cocoa is made into candy by adding sugar and we know that refined sugar is bad for us, contributing to obesity and disease. Cocoa’s essence is a superfood, rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants that promote cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure.
Rich in magnesium—which is an absolute requirement for bone health—cocoa also reduces insulin resistance, with implications for moderating blood sugar levels.
Like avocado, cocoa is good for your brain but in a different way: it affects opiate receptors, releases hormones that evoke a feeling of joy, and increases the production of dopamine, which leads to feelings of contentment.
And it tastes good.
Here is a recipe that incorporates all of these qualities plus the metabolic boost of coconut milk and nutrition of honey.
Chocolate Avocado Pudding
Ingredients:
- 3 large avocados, ripe and soft
- ¼ cup raw cocoa powder
- 3-6 tablespoons coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons raw, unfiltered, local honey
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend on high for 1 minute or until smooth.
- Spoon into individual serving cups and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Enjoy its scrumptious wonder.