Do avocados make you gain or lose weight?

August 3, 2023 | 03:41 pm PT
I heard that avocados are rich in fat, so eating them may result in weight gain. Is it true? (Phuong Vy, HCMC)

Answer:

Avocados are a subtropical fruit, originated from Mexico and Central America. They are often used as an ingredient for various dishes and drinks.

According to the Vietnamese Food Composition Table, 100 grams of avocados contains 101 kcal, 1.9 grams of protein, 9.4 grams of lipid, and 2.3 grams of glucide.

This fruit also contains several vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, vitamin C and B-group vitamins. Hence, avocados are mainly composed of fat, with 1.9 grams of saturated fatty acid, 5.5 grams of monounsaturated fatty acid, and 1.68 grams of polyunsaturated fatty acid per 100 grams of the fruit. Avocados do not contain cholesterol.

Fats in avocados are good fats which are helpful in fat transformation. Because of that, the fruit is often included in diets.

Fats in avocados are good fats which are helpful in fat transformation. Ilulustration photo by Freepik

Fats in avocados are good fats which are helpful in fat transformation. Ilustration photo by Freepik

However, it should be noted that diets are not only about providing good fats. The basic principle behind diets is intaking less calories than using. So those who are aiming to lose weight should avoid consuming saturated fats in animal fats, animals’ visceral organs, deep-fried and stir-fried dishes. They are recommended to turn to protein sources like lean meats, fish, skimmed milk, and cheese.

Avocados can be used in salad and sushi, or mixed with cereals. When consumed with sugar or condensed milk, the dish may provide too much energy and cause weight gain.

A healthy and suitable diet is a must for effective weight loss. You are recommended to undergo a nutrition check and micronutrients test, so that doctors can give you a suitable diet.

Dr. Tran Thi Tra Phuong

Nutrihome Nutrition Clinic System

 
 
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