Q: I have high cholesterol, is it still okay for me to enjoy avocados?


A: Absolutely. In fact, enjoying avocados may be a great way to help lower your cholesterol, if you include them as part of a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

Saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol should be limited when you are on a cholesterol-management diet. Avocados can help consumers meet the dietary guidelines of the American Heart Association, which are to eat a diet that is low to moderate in fat. The fats should be primarily unsaturated and low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

The fat found in avocados is comprised of primarily unsaturated fats. Avocados, provide 0.5 grams of saturated fat in a one-ounce serving. Compared to butter, which has 14.6 grams of saturated fat per 2 Tbsp serving, and Cheddar cheese, which has 6 grams of saturated fat per one-ounce serving.