How Many Carbs Are in Avocados?
An avocado, which is a green, mushy fruit from the avocado tree, contains approximately 15 total carbohydrates (carbs) and approximately 5 "net" carbs. According to the California Avocado Commission, a site recommended by the United States Department of Agriculture, avocados are also high in healthy, unsaturated fats and other nutrients, and they benefit eyesight, cholesterol levels, growth, the nervous system, the heart and the brain. When smashed into a pulp and flavored, this fruit becomes guacamole, a dip usually accompanied by corn chips. The avocado is also popular in egg dishes, sandwiches, sushi and Mexican dishes.
Other People Are Reading
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The Atkins Diet
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According to Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution, by Robert C. Atkins, one avocado contains 14.9 total carbs but only 4.8 net carbs ("digestible carbs" that will impact blood sugar and hence affect weight loss).
The South Beach Diet Plan
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You are allowed to eat avocados during all phases of the South Beach diet plan, which is another low-carb diet. According to SouthBeach-Diet-Plan.com, 1/3 of an avocado is equal to 1 tbsp. of oil.
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Carb Counters
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Nutrientfacts.com confirms that one avocado has 15 total carbs and 10 grams of dietary fiber, resulting in 5 net carbs. Carb-Counter.org partly agrees, citing 14.95 total carbs, but slightly disagrees regarding an avocado's ultimate blood-sugar impact, recording only 3.19 net carbs or effective carbohydrate count (ECC).
Note
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Since avocados vary in size, the exact number of carbs is only a close approximation. If you eat a particularly large avocado, you may want to add half a carb to your count.
Bottom Line
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In moderation, the avocado is a tasty and beneficial part of any low-carb diet.
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