This fruit can help lower cholesterol, is good for your bones and helps with depression

MIAMI — Florida is in the midst of avocado season. My friend Susan recently gave me a few from her tree.

I admit I usually buy Haas avocados from California because I find them consistently good. But Susan’s were excellent, which has me expanding my choices in this delicious and nourishing fruit. So whether they’re from Florida, California or Mexico, here are a few reasons to enjoy this delicious and versatile fruit. I have a history of retinal problems so I gravitate toward lutein-containing foods. Lutein is an antioxidant that filters harmful blue light, which helps maintain a healthy eye. Other good sources of lutein are spinach, kale, broccoli, oranges, red grapes and egg yolk. I’m eyeing an avocado toast topped with egg as a great start to my day.

That creamy avocado taste is in part due to its fat content. An avocado contains monounsaturated fats that, as a part of a nutritious dietary intake, help lower the bad LDL cholesterol in the body. Also helping the heart are the avocado’s phytosterols. These plant substances help block the absorption of cholesterol. In addition to healthy fats, avocados contain fiber. Putting fat and fiber together can help promote feelings of fullness.