Athletic Avocado

Twinning in our @thebuddybandana Avocado wear

Avocados are considered a #SuperFood. They are packed with a variety of nutrients that support both sport performance and overall health. Here are a few benefits you may not have known...

1. Monounsaturated fats: rich in healthy fats, avocados may help to lower blood pressure while improving lipid profiles. Avocados may help reduce risk for cardiovascular disease.

2. Energy Dense: each avocado contains about 320 calories. Avocados can be a highly beneficial addition to an athletes nutritional regimen if expending a lot of energy, experiencing difficulty consuming sufficient calories, desiring weight gain and those overcoming acute/chronic injury.

3. Nutrient Dense: avocados are packed with over 20 vitamins and minerals: vitamin C, E, K, B-vitamins, potassium, folate, beta-carotene, fiber, phytosterols, antioxidants, and leutin. Incorporating avocados can support the immune system, reduce inflammation and improve satiety (feeling of fullness) between meals and energy levels throughout the day by stabilizing blood sugar.

4. Injury and Post-Training Recovery: for athletes overcoming acute and/or chronic sports injury or a heavy period of exercise training, avocados can help to reduce inflammation while promoting collagen production.

Here's a few recommendations for incorporating avocados into your nutritional regimen:

• Add to a Smoothie: avocados make smoothies have a creamier and smoother consistency; avocados will bump up the calories and the healthy fat and fiber will help maintain energy between meals/snacks.
• Guacamole or Dip: mild in flavor, avocados can be easily added to dips, such as vegetable dips and hummus.
• Avocado Egg/Chicken Salad: half the mayo in the recipe and incorporate avocado for a more nutrient dense and creamy salad.
• Avocado Spread: mash up some avocado and spread on your toast, crackers w/ meat & cheese, a sandwich, veggies etc.
• Cottage Cheese w/ Tomato & Avocado: avocado is a delicious addition to a bowl of cottage cheese with fresh tomatoes. Top with a dash of salt and pepper. YUM.
• Add to a Greens Salad, Eggs or Omelet: top your salad and breakfast omelet with some avocado.

#FuelForTheGOLD