Today, we’re going to investigate the truth about avocados, avocado oil, and your health. When avocados arrive at the grocery store, they’re often put into a gas chamber and artificially ripened with ethylene gas. The artificial ripening process leaves this superfood devoid of phytonutrients.
One research study evaluated 22 different brands of avocado oil and discovered that many products were oxidized, which can cause inflammation. Surprisingly, many products were actually fake avocado oil, mainly composed of soy and canola oils.
Approximately 82% of avocado oil is not what it says it is! In the US, there are no official rules on avocado oil or a legally binding definition of the avocado oil extraction process. This has opened the door for corruption.
Some avocado oil products contain no avocado oil at all! The origins of your avocado oil can also be misleading. A product can be labeled “product of the US”, but grown and blended elsewhere, as long as the final product is bottled in the US.
Avocado oil doesn’t always have an expiration or production date, making it difficult to determine how long it’s been sitting on the shelf.
Fast food guacamole does not contain much avocado. It’s often replaced with green peas, hydrogenated oils, and food starches. Cosmetics also claim to use avocado oil, yet soy, palm, and mineral oils are usually listed first on the ingredient list.
If you want to buy avocado oil, look for the following:•Dark, glass bottle •Expiration date •Avoid the cheapest brand•Look for the harvest date•Look for green-colored oil
When choosing avocados, look for Californian varieties, such as the Hass variety. Avoid the cheaper, shiny, bagged varieties.
Avocados can be an incredibly healthy food if you choose the right ones. They contain healthy fats, minimal omega-6 fats, and are a rich source of potassium and magnesium.
Dr. Eric Berg DC Bio:Dr. Berg, age 60, is a chiropractor who specializes in Healthy Ketosis & Intermittent Fasting. He is the author of the best-selling book The Healthy Keto Plan, and is the Director of Dr. Berg Nutritionals. He no longer practices, but focuses on health education through social media.