Avocado seed ‘most nutrient-dense part’ - Expert

They are a welcome addition to any salad, sandwich and even make a tasty snack on their own.

Rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, avocados are packed with nutrients - containing nearly 20 vital vitamins and minerals.

From boosting heart health to protecting against a raft of conditions, including osteoporosis, various forms of cancer as well as helping vision, the humble fruit is an excellent addition to anyone's diet.

But after slicing into an avocado, most people toss away the solid seed in its middle – assuming it is has no nutritional value.

Yet, a new viral video claims an avocado seed is actually the most nutrient-dense part of the fruit.

The revelation has left many wondering if avocado seeds are actually healthy – or if the claim is just another viral hoax.

New York City nutritionist Amy Shapiro, of Real Nutrition NYC, told Daily Mail Online that avocado seeds are, indeed, packed full of antioxidants and fibre.

She explained that the seeds can be blended down into a powder, and added to a smoothie or yogurt for an extra nutritional kick.

Ms Shapiro said: “Something that we’ve all been throwing out is so powerful.”

The video, from holistic cooking blog Nourish Me Whole, instructs the viewer on how to prepare the avocado seed, so that it can be used in smoothies and juices.

The seed is removed as normal, but then dehydrated in the oven, cut into small pieces and blended into a fine powder.

Ms Shapiro explained to Daily Mail Online that consuming avocado seed can boost someone’s health.

She said: “About 70 per cent of the antioxidants of avocados are in the pit.”

Antioxidants fight free radicals – which means they can help the immune system prevent disease.

And, antioxidants can even help prevent wrinkles from developing in a person’s skin.

On top of the antioxidants, avocado seeds are also full of fibre, Ms Shapiro explained.

The nutritionist said: “The fibre creates a really healthy environment for the healthy bacteria in your gut to thrive on and stay alive – it’s kind of a prebiotic.”

Furthermore, foods that are high in fibre help people feel full – which can lead to a reduction in calories consumed.

Thus, the avocado pit’s fibre content can aid in weight loss

Fibre also helps with digestion – keeping people’s bowel movements “’regular’.

And, it can lead to decreased cholesterol levels.

But despite all of the health benefits associated with avocado seeds, Ms Shapiro told Daily Mail Online that they can taste bitter.

That’s why, she explained, it’s best to mix the blended seeds with smoothies or yogurt – to get a better taste.

Of course, the rest of the avocado is healthy, as well.

“Avocados are really high in antioxidants, so they’re protective to disease and cancers,” Ms Shapiro said.

“It is also a really good source of heart-healthy, heart-protective fat.”

The fruit helps keep people’s ‘bad cholesterol’ levels down – and their ‘good cholesterol’ levels high.

The Real Nutrition NYC expert added: “It’s also great for our skin because of the collagen, and because of the fat.”

And, like its seed, avocados can help keep people feeling full longer.

In other words, when it comes to avocado, a little bit goes a long way to help you stay full and get healthy, the nutritionist said.