Zahadka avokado: chto sdelalo eho takym populyarnym

Want to surprise your loved ones with something exotic but do not know what to do? Here is an unexpected solution: avocado! A “native” of Mexico, it looks striking and unusual on the shelves of local stores. It vaguely resembles our pear, yet differs completely from it in purpose and taste.

Who are you, mysterious stranger, and what should we do with you? The MESTA editorial team can easily solve this problem by providing comprehensive information about the product and ways to use it. However, beware: this fruit is not as simple as it seems.

The origins of its popularity, or why avocado?

Thousands of years ago, avocados ripened peacefully on avocado trees, unaware that they would become so popular in the 21st century. As early as the 14th–16th centuries, the lands of today’s Caribbean islands, Mexico and Central America generously supplied local people with their fruit.

The Incas and Aztecs ate the flesh, while seeds and pressed products were used to prepare medicinal remedies, cosmetic oils and even treatments.

Avocado in action: benefit or harm?

By the beginning of the 21st century, avocado had filled the shelves of local shops and supermarkets. Curious consumers need more than advertising: they need useful information. What is it, and what do you eat it with? What happens if you consume more than the recommended amount? Why is it not sweet? MESTA and a group of researchers analysed the available data, and here is what they found.

• Improves attention and memory thanks to calcium, potassium and fatty acids, which strengthen the heart and musculoskeletal system.
• The oleic acid it contains breaks down cholesterol, helping prevent sclerotic changes, heart attacks and other cardiovascular conditions.
• B, C, PP and other vitamins help improve metabolism, while potassium keeps your “fiery engine” working reliably and steadily.
• The fruit oil is useful for arthrosis, scleroderma, periodontitis, eczema and other skin conditions.
• Avocado contains almost no sugars, making it suitable for diets and helping with weight loss.
• Biologically active substances and vitamin E slow the ageing of cells in the body.

Attention! Avocado has a broad range of uses. This exotic and unusual fruit can burn fat, rejuvenate, alleviate illnesses and simply satisfy hunger. But be alert and careful: avocado can be deceptive.

Who are you really, and how are you eaten?

Mexicans seriously considered this wonder of nature a vegetable because it is used to make various sauces, side-dish additions, seasonings and salads. In fact, it is a genuine fruit.

Avocado is not sweet at all and is covered with thick dark-green skin. Inside are juicy, oily flesh and a large stone. The flesh is eaten; when ripe, it resembles light-green butter with a nutty, slightly astringent taste.

Attention! Unripe avocado is not recommended as food because it is almost as hard as wood. Such a fruit should not be put in the refrigerator either: it will never soften there and will slowly rot at low temperatures.

Avocado’s fame became a problem for surgeons

The season’s modern “star”, avocado superfood unexpectedly became responsible for injuries and numerous visits to doctors. The problem was the hard stone hidden in the flesh, as well as reckless actions by internet users. This is how the term “avocado hand” entered surgeons’ vocabulary.

Avocado’s triumph continues

Avocado continues to expand the range of dishes and attract new lovers of piquant flavours. Buy it, experiment and enjoy it! Avocado is not a panacea, but it can be part of a complete and balanced diet. Bon appétit!