November is Diabetes Awareness Month. The American Diabetes Association recommends avocado as a healthy source of monounsaturated fats. Avocados are one of the best food sources of oleic fatty acids, with around 13 grams per cup of the fruit. These omega 9 fats are especially recommended for diabetics as they have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels without reducing beneficial HDL cholesterol (Monounsaturated Fatty Acids and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease). Cholesterol management is regarded as a high priority for people with diabetes as they have a much greater risk of developing heart disease.

The oleic acid in avocados can also help reduce high triglyceride levels in the blood, another big predictor of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, adding more monounsaturated fats to their diet is believed to help people with diabetes process glucose and use insulin more effectively. An even richer source of monounsaturated fats and one of the healthiest oils for cooking is avocado oil.