Parents

Kids and Fresh California Avocados make a good team. Avocados aren't only fun kid food, they're part of a healthy diet for growing kids and they're mom-approved. Avocados provide more than 25 essential nutrients, including fiber, potassium, Vitamin E, B-vitamins and folic acid. They also act as a "nutrient booster" by enabling the body to absorb more fat-soluble nutrients, such as alpha- and beta-carotene and lutein, in foods that are eaten with the fruit.

This section of the web site has games, kids' recipes and other fun things to do, plus helpful teacher resources and teacher tools.

Parent/Teacher's Guide

Using these activities and games students can learn about the roles that the avocado's nutrients play in human growth and health.

Avocados and Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but a healthy diet and exercise plan may help reduce your risk of developing the life-threatening illness.

The American Heart Association (AHA) Dietary Guidelines recommend a diet that has at least five servings of fruits and vegetables, contains up to 30% of calories from fats (primarily unsaturated) and is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, trans fats and sodium while being rich in potassium. Avocados can help you meet the AHA dietary guidelines because they have both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat and contain potassium.

References:
Appel LJ, Brands, MW, Daniels SR, et al. Dietary Approaches to Prevent and Treat Hypertension: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Hypertension. 2006;47;296-308

Krauss RM, Eckel RH, Howard B, et al. AHA Dietary Guidelines: A Statement for Healthcare Professionals From the Nutrition Committee of the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2000;102:2284

Avocados: A Source of Phytonutrients

Recent research shows that fruits and vegetables are a source of phytonutrients, which are neither vitamin nor mineral but are essential for good health.

Phytonutrients are the pigments that contribute to the vibrant red, blues, greens and other hues of fruit and vegetables.

Scientists are discovering thousands of phytonutrients present in fruits, vegetables and other plant-based foods. Phytonutrients are thought to help prevent many chronic diseases. Many researchers believe that the phytonutrients in plant-based foods are part of what makes fruits and vegetables so healthy.

The phytochemicals in avocados include lutein, glutathione and beta-sitosterol. Avocados also act as a "nutrient booster" by enabling the body to absorb more of the fat-soluble phytonutrients in other foods that are eaten with avocados.