Spain just debuted their (rightfully hyped) alternative to our beloved fruit. The avocado is now available in a low-fat variety. But how on earth can this healthy-fat fruit be “low-fat”? According to website Isla Bonita, the providers, their avocados are born under special soil and climate conditions, allowing for up to 30 percent fewer grams of fat than ordinary avocados.
But avocados in their natural state have gotten the green light from wellness experts for years. Packed with vitamin k, folate, vitamin C, potassium, and 20 other different vitamins and minerals, they’re a staple food for low-carb enthusiasts, and the holy grail for vegans and vegetarians. For weight-loss seekers, the nutrient-dense 160 calories (and two net carbohydrates) per serving is a dream.
Which begs the question: Is this low-fat version really necessary?
The straight scoop on “regular” avocados
While those looking to lose weight may feel intrigued by the low-fat newbie, the race for best weight loss food is trickier than you might think. Consuming less fat doesn’t automatically equate to less fat on your body, especially when avocados are one of the most popular healthy fats out there.
Each “high fat” (or regular) avocado you eat offers between 15 and 30 grams of monounsaturated fat. And monounsaturated fats have a whole host of benefits, including weight loss. In fact, they’re pretty effective at reducing cholesterol and blood glucose. If you have a diet high in monounsaturated fats, your risk factors for type 2 diabetes decreases.
Fats aren’t the sole culprit on the road to weight gain or ill health. Fat is an important part of your diet, especially when it comes helping you feel full for longer. So eliminating avocados or going for the low-fat kind is not likely beneficial, even if you are aiming to lose weight.
Should we be opting for low-fat avocados?
Time and testing will tell if this new avocado variety can boast the same flavor, texture and nutrition profile as the real thing.
Currently, the National Health Society (NHS) in the UK recommends only half an avocado per day, The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2015-2020 edition) no longer specifies an upper limit for total fat per day. But we all still have definite portion sizes based on our calorie requirements that we should follow, because healthy eating is about balance, variety, and portions.
For those looking toward weight loss, your journey won’t be transformed by one food, even if it is the great avocado. And for those looking for a staple ingredient, avocados aren’t the only answer to healthy fats! Nuts, olive oil, fish, and peanut butter are also great options. But if avocados are your jam and you’re looking for a way to eat more than just one a day, then maybe the impossible-to-resist low-fat version is the way to go.