We debunk the myths about avocados

For many people, avocado is a permanent part of the menu. However, there are also many myths surrounding the fruit. One of them: the avocado should be a vegetable. However, it actually grows on a laurel plant and is therefore a berry.

Avocados go well with many salads, can be prepared as a spread or dip and can even be used as a hair mask. They are very popular and can be used in different ways. But what about all the claims about calories, health benefits and water consumption in cultivation?

Although we only know of a few varieties, there are actually several hundred varieties of avocado. Different sources provide different information here, but there are certainly more than 400. The best-known varieties in this country are ‘Fuerte’ (recognizable by the smooth, green skin) and ‘Hass’ (recognizable by the black, uneven skin).

Avocados contain many essential minerals and vitamins, including magnesium, copper, potassium, manganese and vitamins B, C, E and K. At the same time, they are very low in sugar and have a low glycemic index, making them an important part of the diet. power supply. a healthy diet.

Avocados are also considered anti-inflammatory and an important source of folic acid. This makes them an important food, especially for pregnant women, because folic acid contributes to the healthy development of embryos.

Avocados contain unsaturated fatty acids. Unlike saturated fats, these are considered healthy. Because unsaturated fats help lower LDL cholesterol levels in the blood, which reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. In addition, the substances in an avocado stimulate digestion, support cognitive and visual functions and improve the skin.

The many healthy fats also have a certain calorie content. The exact number of calories in an avocado depends on its weight and the type of fruit. There are approximately 138 calories per 100 grams.

Half an avocado (recommended daily amount for adults) contains approximately 114 calories. It provides the body with a lot of energy, has a filling effect and at the same time provides tons of vitamins, healthy fats and minerals.

Avocados need a relatively large amount of water to grow, more than 1,000 liters to grow three fruits. But what most people in this country don’t know: “How much irrigation an avocado needs varies from region to region, so it’s hard to say in general terms.” Avocados grown in regions with high rainfall can get almost all of their water needs directly from get the rain,” said Zac Bard, president of the World Avocado Organization.

If you compare the water consumption per kilo in cultivation, some foods are even ahead of avocados. Includes olive oil, nuts and tea. However, coffee, cocoa and beef use by far the most water.

What should not be ignored, however, is the water shortage that often exists in avocado growing areas. If the little available water is used for avocados, there is no water for growing other food or for drinking water.

In addition, the consumption of avocados requires long transport routes, which are accompanied by a significant CO2 burden. In some countries, forest areas are also being cleared to make way for avocado plantations.

If a lower CO2 footprint for avocados is important to you, you can ensure that the fruit comes from European cultivation and therefore does not have such a long transport route. There are many avocado plantations, especially in Spain, but they are also grown in Sicily and Crete.

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