Whether or not you’ve gotten on the avocado toast bandwagon, you’ve likely seen avocados rise in popularity in recent years. And despite their high calorie and fat content, regularly eating avocados may actually improve several aspects of health — let’s find out why.

1. Avocados Are Loaded With Nutrients
Avocados contain many beneficial nutrients, ​​including high amounts of potassium (more than a banana!) and folate. These fatty fruits also contain B vitamins, vitamin E, copper, magnesium, vitamin C, and loads of healthy fat and fiber.

2. Avocados May Lower Cholesterol
Even though avocados are high in fat, it is mostly heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. Studies show that ​​eating an avocado a day may help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels and increase HDL (“good”) cholesterol.

3. Avocados Help With Weight Loss
Avocados are high in calories, at about 320-340 calories per fruit. However, their high fiber and healthy fat content make them satiating, which may help people eat less. Research has linked avocado intake with increased weight loss and decreased belly fat. In fact, one study found people who eat avocados daily weigh 7.5 pounds less!

4. Avocados Boost Gut Health
The beneficial amounts of fiber in each avocado (about 14 grams, or half of what a woman needs in a day) support the growth of healthy gut bacteria. A strong microbiome is necessary for proper digestion and is linked to longevity, mood, immunity, and heart health.

5. Avocados Support Cardiovascular Health
Avocados are linked to better cholesterol levels and weight management, which are strong predictors of cardiovascular disease. They also reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome, which includes obesity, high fat in the blood, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar. Research shows people who consume avocados are 32% less likely to have metabolic syndrome.

6. Avocados Reduce Inflammation
Lastly, avocados provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support, which is another reason these tasty fruits reduce the risk of many diseases. Certain compounds called carotenoids found in avocados, including lutein, α-Carotene, and β-Carotene, have potent antioxidant activity, protecting against premature aging and chronic diseases.