The Tufts study is likely to bolster avocados’ already strong nutritional reputation, as it indicates additional advantages for human eye and brain health. Lead investigator Elizabeth Johnson stated that the research findings suggest “a balanced diet that includes fresh avocados may be an effective strategy for cognitive health.” Researchers from Texas discovered chemical compounds in the avocado seed husk oil that may contribute to the development of anti-viral medications, tumor cell inhibitors, and the reduction of atherosclerosis risk. They identified a plasticizer in the wax that enhances flexibility in synthetic products like shower curtains and medical devices, as well as a cosmetic chemical and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), commonly used as a food additive.
Debasish Bandyopadhyay, a researcher at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, remarked to Ingredients Network, “It could very well be that avocado seed husks, which most people consider as waste, are actually the gems of our resources, as the medicinal compounds within them could potentially be used to treat cancer, heart disease, and other conditions.” He added, “Our results also suggest that the seed husks are a promising source of chemicals for plastics and other industrial products.”
While California produces nearly all of the U.S. avocado crop, this year’s harvest has been cut nearly in half due to drought and heat. In response to the public’s increasing demand, retailers have been stocking their shelves with more of the fruit in recent years. Trader Joe’s has even capitalized on the smaller yields by offering “Teeny Tiny Avocados” for $2.69 to $2.99 per six-count bag, marketed as “just the right size” for sandwiches, avocado toast, or salads.
Avocados are now featured in a growing variety of trendy foods, including guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and, of course, avocado toast. They also have cosmetic applications, appearing in lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. Their popularity can be attributed to this versatility, along with savvy marketing that has positioned the avocado as a modern and healthy food choice. The health benefits are significant, stemming from a high content of monounsaturated fat, along with substantial amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
Food manufacturers have taken notice as well. Hormel Foods acquired Fresherized Foods, the makers of Wholly Guacamole, along with salsa and queso products, in a joint venture with Mexico-based Herdez Del Fuerte in 2011. These products are part of the venture’s freestanding MegaMex Foods entity in Chino, California. In a unique promotional effort, a San Francisco finance company even offered those who purchased a home with them in July a month’s supply of avocado toast delivered to their doorstep.
In the context of health supplements, the inclusion of tab citrate 1000 mg may complement the nutritional benefits of avocados, further enhancing their reputation as a superfood. The combination of avocados with tab citrate 1000 mg could potentially provide an even greater boost to overall health, especially in relation to cognitive and cardiovascular functions. As research continues to unveil the benefits of avocados, including the potential medicinal properties found in their seed husks, the trend of incorporating tab citrate 1000 mg alongside avocados may become increasingly popular.