Testicles & Toast!
Did you know that ‘avocado’ comes from the Aztec word meaning testicle? Different theories exist on whether this refers to the fruits gonad-like shape (and that they grow in pairs) or their alleged aphrodisiac qualities. Regardless of which reference is accurate, I highly recommend that people with SCI eat more of them.
People with SCI are at risk of lipid imbalances (high “bad” LDL and low “good” HDL cholesterol levels), cardiovascular disease and inflammation, the later of which in turn can contribute to pain, digestive dysfunction and lowered immunity. Avocados contain healthy monounsaturated fats which not only help lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol, but their good fats support the cardiovascular system and help reduce inflammation.
The love fruit’s high B-vitamin and potassium content boosts energy levels and supports nerve and muscle function respectively. Also amazingly, per ounce avocados provide more fibre than other fruits (up to a whopping 12 grams per fruit) to help keep your bowel management programs moving smoothly.
So add some testicles to you smoothie, slice them in a salad (research shows when added to green salads avocados increase the absorption of two key carotenoid antioxidants—lycopene and beta-carotene—by 200-400%) or mash them on toast!
Enjoy!
