New Research Provides Evidence That Fresh Avocados Play a Role in Gut Health

In a weight-loss study of 51 overweight or obese adults, researchers found that the gut microbiota differed in response to an avocado-inclusive and control diet. Participants were advised to eat 500 calories less each day and to eat one avocado daily, compared to a control group following the same dietary guidance without avocado. Though more research like this study is needed to confirm the findings, especially in a larger U.S. representative sample, the results suggest the fiber contained in avocados can be part of a balanced diet that supports a healthy gut.

A recent trial of 163 overweight adults, also supported by the Hass Avocado Board, studied the changes in gut bacteria and metabolite levels in both an avocado-excluded as well as a daily avocado-included diet. Researchers reported changes to gut bacteria and metabolite levels when participants ate one avocado a day for 12 weeks compared to a diet that excluded avocado. Although the findings cannot be generalized to all people, the results support a growing body of scientific evidence, suggesting that avocados may affect gut health.