Reduces Cholesterol and Improves Heart Health
One rabbit study compared avocado oil to coconut, olive and corn oil.
It found that avocado oil has beneficial effects on blood cholesterol levels. What's more,
avocado oil and olive oil were found to be the most effective in increasing HDL, the "good"
cholesterol. In rats, avocado oil may reduce blood triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels,
as well as lower blood pressure.
High in Lutein, an Antioxidant That has Benefits for The Eyes
Avocado oil is a relatively good source of lutein, a carotenoid that's
naturally found in your eyes. It functions as an antioxidant that has benefits for eye health.
Eating plenty of lutein may reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, which are
common age-related eye diseases.
Improves Skin and Enhances Wound Healing
The fatty acids in avocado oil appear to be beneficial for your skin.
One study found that a cream containing avocado oil and vitamin B12 improved symptoms of
psoriasis after 12 weeks of treatment. Avocado oil has also been studied for its ability to
treat skin injuries, and studies in rats have found that it may accelerate wound healing.
Antioxidants fight cellular damage caused by free radicals, which are waste products of metabolism.
High levels of them can lead to oxidative stress, which may contribute to diseases like type 2
diabetes and heart disease. By giving electrons to free radicals, antioxidants can neutralize them,
preventing them from causing harm. Many types of free radicals exist, but oxygen-derived radicals,
known as reactive oxygen species (ROS), are the most concerning. Mitochondria, the cell organs that
produce energy, are major sources of ROS. According to one study in diabetic rats, avocado oil can
protect against the harmful effects of free radicals by entering the mitochondria. Once there, it's
able to neutralize free radicals and prevent them from damaging this important cell organ.