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Why Avocado is a Superfood for Health & Beauty
Avocados are known for being rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. They’re packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, potassium, fiber, vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, making them one of the most nutrient-dense fruits you can add to your diet. The healthy fats keep your skin moisturized, while the antioxidants fight free radicals, making avocados a true powerhouse for both your body and beauty routine. This is why you definitely want to freeze dry avocado for health and beauty.
Avocados are native to Central and South America, primarily Mexico, which remains the largest exporter. They’re typically in season from late winter to early summer but are available year-round due to imports. Most avocados are shipped fresh, not frozen, to preserve their quality.
Avocados are considered one of the “Clean Fifteen” meaning they have low levels of pesticide contamination compared to other produce. This is mainly because of their thick skin, which protects the fruit from absorbing pesticides. However, choosing organic avocados ensures they are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, which is a plus for those committed to eating cleaner, environmentally-friendly foods. While non-organic avocados are generally safe, opting for organic may be a better choice if you’re looking to minimize chemical exposure and support sustainable farming practices.
Avocados are not currently bioengineered. Unlike some other fruits and vegetables, they haven’t been genetically modified, and you won’t find bioengineered versions on the market. The majority of avocados you find in stores, whether organic or conventional, are grown naturally through traditional farming methods. This means avocados maintain their natural nutritional profile and haven’t been altered in any way, making them a good choice for those looking to avoid bioengineered foods.
Choosing the Perfect Avocado
There are several varieties of avocados, each with its unique characteristics. The most popular is the Hass avocado, known for its creamy texture, rich flavor, and pebbly dark skin that turns black when ripe. The Fuerte avocado has a smoother, thinner green skin and a buttery taste, while the Bacon avocado offers a milder flavor with a light green, smoother skin. The Reed avocado is rounder, with a thicker, green skin and a more delicate taste. Lastly, the Zutano avocado has a shiny, thin skin with a lighter, more watery texture, making it less creamy but still delicious in salads or smoothies.
Avocados have a downside—they go bad fast! They brown quickly once cut, making it tricky to enjoy their benefits before they spoil. Avocados start browning due to an enzyme called polyphenol oxidase, which reacts with oxygen. While freeze drying locks in nutrients and prevents browning, allowing you to enjoy avocados at their best it is also important to be sure to purchase avocados when they are ripe or even a little before to ensure they are ready to use when you are.
- Look for avocados that are firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure. They should be free from large blemishes or bruises.
- Check the stem: If it comes off easily and reveals green underneath, it’s ripe. If it’s brown, the avocado may be overripe.
How to Slice an Avocado: Step-by-Step Guide
- Cut in Half: Start by holding the avocado steady on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the avocado lengthwise around the seed, creating two halves.
- Twist and Separate: Gently twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them. One half will have the seed still intact.
- Remove the Seed: Carefully tap the seed with your knife until it lodges slightly. Twist the knife gently to lift the seed out, then discard it or save it for planting.
- Score the Flesh: Hold one avocado half in your hand and use the knife to make several lengthwise cuts into the flesh, being careful not to pierce the skin. Then, make crosswise cuts to create a grid pattern if you want diced avocado.
- Scoop Out: Take a spoon and glide it between the avocado flesh and skin, scooping out the sliced avocado pieces. Repeat for the other half.
How to Freeze Dry Avocados
- Slice the Avocados: See above for a step by step guide on slicing avocados. Slice or dice into even pieces for more consistent freeze drying.
- Arrange on Freeze Dryer Trays: Place the slices in a single layer on your Harvest Right freeze dryer trays.
- Freeze Dry: Set your freeze dryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avocados usually take about 24-36 hours to freeze dry completely.
- Store Properly: Once dried, I usually leave about half of the freeze dried avocado in chunks and I powder the other half. The powder is good for any food recipes where you want a smooth texture and is usually best for all beauty recipes.
- For long-term storage, use Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
- For short-term use, keep them in an airtight container like a ball jar.
Why Eat Avocados for Health?
Avocados are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that help lower LDL cholesterol levels and support heart health. They’re also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. This also helps regulate blood sugar levels, which benefits those managing diabetes. Plus, avocados are a great source of vitamins and minerals like potassium, vitamin E, and folate, supporting overall wellness.
5 Ways to Use Avocado in Your Diet
1. Guacamole:
Rehydrate avocado slices in water for about 15 minutes, then mash them with lime, salt, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro for classic guacamole.
2. Avocado Crema:
Blend freeze dried avocado powder with sour cream or yogurt, lime juice, garlic, and salt to create a creamy topping for tacos or salads.
3. Smoothies:
Add freeze dried avocado to your smoothie for a creamy texture and a dose of healthy fats.
4. Brownies:
Substitute butter with freeze dried avocado to make fudgy, nutrient-rich brownies. You’ll cut down on unhealthy fats and add vitamins.
5. Avocado Toast:
Spread rehydrated avocado on whole-grain toast with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and red chili flakes for a quick and healthy breakfast.
Why Use Avocados for Beauty?
Avocados aren’t just great for eating; they’re amazing for skin and hair! They’re rich in vitamins A, D, and E, which nourish and hydrate your skin and hair. The natural oils in avocado penetrate deeply, making them perfect for moisturizing and revitalizing.
5 Ways to Use Freeze Dried Avocado in Beauty Products
1. Avocado Hair Mask Recipe:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of freeze dried avocado powder with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of honey.
- Apply to damp hair, focusing on the ends. Leave for 20-30 minutes before rinsing.
- This mask helps to hydrate and repair damaged hair, leaving it shiny and soft.
2. Avocado Face Mask Recipe:
- Combine 2 tablespoons of freeze-dried avocado powder with 1 tablespoon of yogurt and 1 teaspoon of honey.
- Apply to your face and leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
- This mask nourishes your skin, providing deep hydration and a radiant glow.
3. Avocado Lip Balm:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of freeze dried avocado powder with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and a few drops of essential oil.
- Melt the mixture, pour it into small containers, and let it cool.
- The result is a hydrating lip balm that’s perfect for dry, chapped lips.
4. Avocado Body Scrub:
- Blend 1/4 cup of freeze dried avocado powder with 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1/4 cup of coconut oil.
- Use this scrub in the shower to exfoliate and moisturize your skin.
- The natural oils leave your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
5. Avocado Hand Cream:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of freeze dried avocado powder with 1/4 cup of shea butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Massage the cream into your hands daily to keep them soft and hydrated.
Final Thoughts on Freezeing Dry Avocado for Health and Beauty
Freeze drying avocado for health and beauty benefits is a game-changer. You get to enjoy all the nutrients of a ripe avocado without worrying about spoilage.
By freeze drying avocado, you’re not only saving money and reducing waste but also enhancing your health and beauty routine. You’ll always have avocados on hand, ready for any recipe or DIY beauty product. Whether you’re whipping up guacamole or nourishing your skin, freeze dried avocado is your secret weapon for a health and beauty 🥑
