National Guacamole Day

Photo: https://www.purewow.com

With National Guacamole Day upon us, we’d like to take a moment to celebrate the magical green fruit (yes, it’s a fruit) that makes it possible to enjoy America’s favorite dip.

The avocado, technically a berry, serves up just as many beauty benefits as there are ways to eat it. Naturally loaded with vitamins E and C, avocado makes a great hydrating mask for the hair, face and body. It’s rich in chlorophyll and oleic acid (a healthy fat), both great for reducing inflammation, promoting softness and preventing wrinkles. Maybe the fountain of youth is actually an avocado, and not a fountain at all!

Even though they are jam-packed with good essential fats, avocados should still be enjoyed in moderation if you’re closely watching your fat intake. Enter this magical unicorn of an avocado toast creation from eatwithinyourmeans.com.

The edamame adds volume without adding more fat so you can slather the mashed topping on your toast, guilt free. Since it’s loaded with protein and fiber, the edamame makes this alternative a filling midday snack or a small meal. Added bonus: you can enjoy it as a guacamole dip too.

Photo: http://eatwithinyourmeans.com

Avocado Toast

• 4 slices of your choice of bread
• 1 large ripe avocado
• 1/3 cup shelled edamame
• 1 lime
• 1 scallion
• ½ cup raw fresh corn kernels (1 ear)
• ½ cup diced tomato
• ½ cup chopped cilantro
• ¼ hemp seeds
• Salt to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

[See full procedure at http://eatwithinyourmeans.com/best-avocado-toast/]

Age-Defying Avocado Moisture Mask

Grab another avocado and whip up this anti-aging face mask, from onegreenplanet.org. Add a couple drops of your favorite lavender essential oil for an added touch of bliss. Battling acne breakouts? Add the juice from one lemon and two tablespoons of rolled oats.

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tsp. coconut oil

Halve the avocado, remove the pit and mix ingredients together in a bowl. Apply to your skin, put on your favorite playlist and let the avocado do its thing (for about 30 minutes). Rinse off and repeat a couple times per week for radiant, soft, youthful skin.

*If you have extra, apply to the ends of (dry) hair for a boost of moisture for your locks. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse.