Avocado Tips and Resources

Applause for Avocados

Also known as "alligator pears" because of their shape and scaly green skin, avocados are anything but scary. Though it's relatively high in calories, this wonderful fruit (it's not a vegetable!) is a great addition to salads or sandwiches because it's loaded with beneficial nutrients.

In addition to being a good source of potassium and folate -- two nutrients that are important for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system -- avocados are also a healthy source of monounsaturated fat, a valuable part of our daily diet because it helps lower LDL, or "bad," cholesterol.

A great way to incorporate the avocado into your day is to use it as an alternative spread on toast. Add some lemon juice and you have a delicious, savory treat -- you won't even miss your butter!

Sonoma Diet presents Dr. Guttersen's Tip of the Day

It's in the Bag

An avocado is ripe when the skin gives slightly under pressure. If it's hard when you buy it, put it in a paper bag and let it sit for a day or two in a warm spot in your kitchen, such as the top of the refrigerator.

More about avocados:

• Avocado Mandarin Salad
• Nutrients in Fruits: apples, apricots, avocados
• Avocado Tips and Resources
• South Beach Diet Tips on Avocado Buying, Storing, and Preparing
• Sonoma Diet Foods. Avocados