Dr. Sunil - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Sunil

Is Guacamole Bad For You?

Also Known As: guac


Grade

A


Short answer

Other than possible weight gain from eating too many avocados, guacamole is fantastic for your health.

Grade

A

Recommended Alternative


Long answer

Guacamole is a popular dip made from avocados, garlic, onion, jalapeños, salt and pepper, lime juice, cilantro, and sometimes tomatoes. The main ingredient in guacamole is avocado – and as such is where the dish gets most of its nutrients. The only downside to avocados is that they are high in calories – one fruit contains well over 200. Also, if you have any allergies or are hypersensitive to latex, you will want to avoid eating anything containing avocado.

From the avocado present in guacamole, you get approximately ¼ of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin K. Vitamin K helps prevent blood clotting and is crucial in maintaining a regular heartbeat. Also found in significant quantities in avocados are Vitamin E (fights against free radicals that cause cancer and heart disease), vitamin C (strengthens the immune system), and niacin (vital for the digestive system). Capsaicin from the jalapeños is known to protect against cancer. Anticarcinogenic agents are also found in the garlic. Garlic and onion both work as detoxifiers and can help rid the body of unwanted toxins. Lastly, tomatoes contain lycopene, which has been shown to help prevent prostate cancer and lime disease.

It may look decadent and get a bad rap, but the truth is – guacamole is one of the healthiest options out there, especially when compared to all of the other available dips. The only real worry (other than if you are allergic to some of the ingredients) would be eating too much and packing on some unwanted pounds.


Possible short-term side effects

  • allergic reaction
  • nausea

Possible long-term side effects

  • weight gain

Ingredients to be aware of

  • excess calories


Benefits

  • detoxifies the body
  • decreases risk of cancer
  • decreased risk of heart disease
  • aids digestion
  • improves immune system
  • promotes regular heartbeat
  • helps prevent blood clotting
  • reduces risk of lime disease
  • source of essential nutrients

Healthier alternatives

Our Wellness Pick (what is this?)

Wholly Guacamole Minis

  • Conveniently packaged
  • Classic guacamole flavor
  • Portion-controlled size
  • No preservatives
Learn More!



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Jeff Volling
Published on: 12-29-2015
Last updated: 12-15-2023

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Jeff Volling
Published on: 12-29-2015
Last updated: 12-15-2023




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