8 Frequently Asked Questions About Avocados

You can find avocados almost everywhere. Avocados are considered both a delicacy and a common addition for a tasty meal. Many restaurants offer a choice of having guacamole as a side plate, and surprisingly enough, some also take guacamole as the main dish. Besides guacamole, you have the option of eating avocado in many ways; the choice entirely depends on you.

Even though avocado is one of the most enjoyed fruits worldwide, avocado lovers still have a lot of questions about them, but don’t worry; we are here to put your questions to rest. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about avocados.

#1. Where are avocados originally from?

Avocados are from Central America and Mexico. The origin of the word avocado is quite interesting. Well, it is said that during ancient times, avocados were called Nahuatl, which means “testicles.” The reason as to why they were associated with testicles is probably due to its shape.

#2. Do avocados have any health benefits?

Avocados are considered a ‘’superfood’’ because they have immense health benefits. Aside from being incredibly nutritious, rich in fiber and healthy fats, some studies have shown that they also:

– improve vision
– help with depression
– improve cognitive function
– ease osteoarthritis
– contain folic acid which is good for pregnant women
– prevents colon, pancreas and stomach cancer.

#3. How can I tell that an avocado is ripe?

First of all, avocados only ripen once picked from the tree. You can tell if it is ripe by gently pressing on it. When they yield to gentle pressure, they are ready to eat whereas if they are still rigid, you need to give it some more time to ripen.

#4. Are avocados a fruit or a vegetable?

Avocado is a fruit; in fact, it is actually a berry. More specifically, it is a fruit that belongs to the genus Persea in the Lauraceae family.

#5. What is the best way to store avocados?

Fresh avocados are best stored at room temperature.

#6. Is avocado good for the skin and hair?

Yes. Avocados play a significant role in maintaining glowing skin and healthy hair. The amino acids, antioxidants, and essential oils can help repair any damaged hair, treat sunburns, and also moisturize dry skin.

#7. How can I speed up the ripening process?

To speed up the ripening process, you can store an avocado in a paper bag at room temperature. How does it work? Well, avocados produce ethylene gas and when this gas is contained, it hastens the ripening process.

#8. How can I store already cut avocado?

How many times have you cooked a meal and only needed half an avocado?  You don’t want to throw it, but keeping it fresh once it has been cut can be a challenge.  Not anymore!  You can keep the cut avocado fresh for a longer by applying lemon juice to it and wrapping it in a cling film!

About Jason Spencer

Jason Spencer has a tremendous enthusiasm for all facets of health, fitness and physical performance that stems from an athletic lifestyle from childhood. Jason was fortunate enough to compete in collegiate football and learned to love the challenges that physical activity placed on the body. As Jason progressed through his higher education and became increasingly aware of how science is applied to physical activity and how it reveals the benefits of exercise, he realized very quickly that he wanted to pursue a career that gives him the opportunity to teach others to compete, challenge, and push themselves towards something more valuable to them than anything else; health, fitness and self worth. Being a fitness professional allows Jason to do this for them and he is always incredibly grateful for that. Jason has a Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience from Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA. Neuroscience and his acquired knowledge of the nervous system and muscle stimulation techniques has been extremely instrumental towards building a unique ability and feel for training the body for optimal form and function. As a personal trainer he is certified with ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine). He's also a strength & conditioning specialist with NSCA (National Strength & Conditioning Association). He has additional certifications in both kettlebell principles & techniques (Equinox), and Flexibility & Corrective Exercise (Swedish Institute of Health Sciences in NY). Jason has worked as a trainer and conditioning specialist in a variety of fitness facilities over the years such as: LA Fitness in Piscataway, NJ, the YMCA in Metuchen, NJ, and Equinox Fitness Clubs in New York, NY. He also does private in-home sessions all over the Manhattan area.