What is the connection between avocado and cholesterol?
Research has shown that there is a positive link between avocado and cholesterol. This is largely caused by monounsaturated fats that the avocado contains. Unlike many saturated fats that increase cholesterol levels, avocado fats have the ability to naturally reduce levels. Another connection between avocado and cholesterol is beta-sitosterol, plant sterol, which disrupts the absorption of cholesterol in the intestinal tract.
There are basically two types of cholesterol in the bloodstream. One is known as Lipoprotein with low density (LDL), poor cholesterol, which is associated with many health problems. The second is known as lipoprotein with high density (HDL), good cholesterol, which balances LDL. There is another type of blood fat known as lipoprotein with very low density (VLDL), which is primarily formed by triglycerides. LDL, HDL and VLDL are summarized in the total number of cholesterol.
Avocado are rich in oleic acid and also contain a slight amount of omega-3. MnOho studies, which were performed on avocado and cholesterol, have shown that healthy avocado fat is effective to reduce LDL levels. One way of these fats can increase HDL levels so that they can start working to eliminate LDL cholesterol.
Studies show that avocados can also help reduce triglycerides. Triglycerides are stored in fat cells and are essential for good health because they are able to supply the body with a constant flow of energy. In excessive quantities, however, can contribute to the high total number of cholesterol by increasing VLDL.
Another way of avocado helps in reducing cholesterol levels is the disruption of cholesterol absorption from food. This interference is caused by beta-sitosterol, a plant version of cholesterol. When it is present in the thin intestine, it reduces the absorption of LDL cholesterol in this area. This reduced absorption directly combines avocado and cholEsterol together because it helps to prevent LDL levels from climbing high.
Another health benefits of the avocado include a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. The reason is partly beneficial connection between avocado and cholesterol, as high cholesterol levels increase the risk of plaque accumulation and other problems around the heart. The avocado also contains folate that helps maintain normal homocysteine levels in the bloodstream. It is an important amino acid that promotes good health when present in moderate quantities. In large quantities, however, it can be harmful to the heart.