However, the fruit s high fat content does mean that people who are overweight or who tend to gain weight easily should eat avocados in small quantities. One tablespoon of butter contributes 12 grams of fat, 7.5 grams of saturated fat, and 107 calories, and also lacks nutrient value. Avocados are also known as a source of vitamin E. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant and one of the body s primary defenders against oxidation, protecting the lipids and other vulnerable components of the cells from destruction. Vitamin E participates in the body s immune defenses, speculated to be due to its protection of cell lipids. Fat-soluble vitamin E is found predominately in vegetable oils and nuts.
Avocados vary considerably in their exterior characteristics, depending on the variety.
The two most widely marketed avocado varieties are the pebbly textured, almost black Haas and the green Fuerte, which has a thin, smooth skin. Like many fruits, avocados ripen best off the tree. Ripe avocados yield to gentle palm pressure, but firm, unripe avocados are commonly found in supermarkets. Select those that are unblemished and heavy for their size. Placing several avocados together in a paper bag at room temperature for a couple of days will speed the ripening process.