In today's fast-paced world of trying to balance convenience with healthy eating for the whole family, isn't it nice to know there's one food that does it all? It's completely natural, oh-so versatile and helps maintain health and vitality. It's the avocado — the original super fast, super food that delivers an avo boost of goodness in every bite.

The merits of avos have long been extolled: they were fruits of the gods to the Aztecs who praised their healthful and aphrodisiac qualities; they amazed Spanish explorer Hernan Cortes when he landed in Mexico in 1519; and more recently, they've been hailed by scientists for their numerous health benefits.

King in the kitchen

But it's in the kitchen that the avo is king — its versatility allows it to practically be used in any dish, whether hot or cold, as a main meal or on the side, and in a range of recipes suitable for every member of the family. One of its most redeeming features is that it's quick and easy to prepare, making it the height of culinary convenience.

The list of gastronomic goodies that can be cooked up using avos is endless; it's delicious in soups, salads, dips, salsas, guacamole, dressings, nachos, wraps, pasta, pizza, sorbets, smoothies, compotes, mousse, ice cream…

And they're great for meals on the run — this certainly proves that avos are the ultimate super fast super food!

One of nature's superfruits

They're also considered by the scientific fraternity to be one of nature's superfruits, most notably because of their nutrient density.

Nutrient density refers to the ratio of a food's nutrient content to its total energy content. In other words, nutrient dense foods provide significant amounts of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, but relatively few calories. Unlike energy-dense foods, which are kilojoule-laden and offer little nutritional value.

Avocados are recognised the world over as being nutrient-dense, providing good monounsaturated fats; containing vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals; being a good source of fibre and protein; and bursting with antioxidants which help fight disease-causing free radicals in the body.

International research continues to highlight avos' ability to inhibit the growth of certain cancers and to assist in diabetes control. This has not only made a strong case for the health benefits of this humble little fruit, but also put paid to the outdated belief that an avo is fattening.

Because while it's true avos have a relatively high fat content, this is monounsaturated fat — the good fat associated with possibly lowering 'bad' LDL cholesterol levels in blood and helping to maintain a healthy heart. It's clear; avos provide a health boost second to none.

The best news of all is that avo season is in full swing right now. So grab a couple and get your avo boost of goodness from this multitalented, super fast, super food today!