California Avocados - Benefits of Avocados

California produces about 90% of the nation's avocado crop, leading the nation in avocados, as well as many other produce (see list). with San Diego County considered the Avocado Capital of the U.S., producing 60% of all the avocados grown in California. There are nearly 5,000 avocado growers in California. The average grove size is around 10 acres. A single California Avocado tree can produce about 500 avocados (or 200 pounds of fruit) a year although usually average about 60 pounds from 150 fruit There are seven varieties of avocados grown commercially in California, but the Hass is the most popular, accounting for approximately 95 percent of the total crop volume California Avocados grow year-round About 43 percent of all U.S. households buy avocados

California avocado growing regions celebrate their harvest with avocado festivals in Morro Bay, Carpinteria and Fallbrook.

Here are just a few avocado attributes:

Rich in vitamins A, B-complex, C, E, H, K and folic acid
Have buffering minerals critical in neutralizing excess acidity, magnesium, copper, iron, calcium, potassium
Perfect food provides ALL 18 essential amino acids
Contain 7 fatty acids, including omega 3 and 6
More protein than cow's milk
Fats – 63% monounsaturated and 17% saturated serving as food energy fuel rather than glucose or proteins
20% polyunsaturated fats for cellular construction
76 mg of beta-sitosterol inhibits cholesterol absorption in the intestine, results in lower blood cholesterol levels, and may inhibit prostate tumors
Contains 3 times more glutathion than bananas, apples, cantaloupes, grapes, plums and cherries, buffering acids that cause cell damage in aging process, heart disease and cancer
Highest fruit source of lutein to protect against cataracts and macular degeneration