Some people face the avocado This is because of its high caloric value: there are about 350 calories in a small unit. But, the truth is that it can be a great ally of healthy eating. And it can help those who want to lose a few pounds Furthermore, according to a study by the University of Illinois in the United States, eating avocados every day is good for the intestines.

Rich in good fats, such as omega-3, avocados are considered to be a health food with many health benefits, but they are often associated with heart health. Now it can be said that they are also good for the intestines and digestion.

Avocado vs. Gut Health: What's the Connection?

Having avocados as part of your daily diet can benefit the intestinal microbiota, that is, the digestive system as a whole. In short, thanks to the high fiber content that the fruit contains in its composition. Not only that, its abundance in monounsaturated fats also favors intestinal health and functioning.

According to the study, people who ate avocado every day as part of a meal had more gut bacteria that break down fiber and produce metabolites that help with gut health. They also had greater microbial diversity compared to people who did not receive the meals with avocado.

The study included 163 adults between the ages of 25 and 45 who were overweight or obese, so they were given one meal a day to consume in place of breakfast, lunch, or dinner. One group consumed an avocado at each meal, while the control group consumed a similar meal, but without avocados.

Read more: Want to lower cholesterol? Eat avocado

The importance of intestinal health

Basically, because it impacts the health of the entire body.

Firstly, the health of the gut has a direct effect on immunity, i.e. a healthy gut results in a strengthened immunity. However, more than this, gut health also affects mood: dysregulation of the gut microbiota can cause symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Also, according to a study from the University of Cork in Ireland, the microbiota of the gut directly impacts not only a person's mood, but in fact his or her behavior altogether.

Other benefits of having a healthy gut are, for example:

• Prevents bloating
• Prevents flatulence sensation
• Ensures good skin appearance
• Prevents diseases such as ulcerative colitis
• Prevents cramps and stomach aches
• Protects brain health

Read also: Fiber intake may reduce inflammation caused by Covid-19

How to include avocados in your diet

• On toast
• On bread
• Like guacamole
• In Salad
• In vitamins, juices and smoothies
• With cereal
• With other fruits
• Finally, it is also possible to exchange olive oil for avocado oil

Read more: Tips on how to use avocado for weight loss