Avocado Oil: Recent Advances in Its Anti-diabetic Potential

BackgroundDiet plays a crucial role in insulin resistance and diabetes, with high-fat and high-carbohydrate diets being major contributors. However, the type of fat consumed is critical, as different fatty acids impact insulin sensitivity differently.ObjectiveThis review examines the potential benefits of avocado oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), in improving glycaemic control and lipid metabolism. It also explores variations in avocado oil composition across different avocado cultivars.MethodsExperimental and clinical studies were analysed to assess the metabolic effects of avocado oil. The impact of MUFAs on insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, and metabolic health was reviewed, alongside the influence of fruit quality, maturity, and cultivar differences.ResultsAvocado oil may enhance glycaemic control and lipid metabolism, benefiting individuals with diabetes and hypercholesterolemia. However, its composition varies significantly across avocado variants such as Hass, Reed, Ettinger, and Fuerte, influencing its therapeutic properties.ConclusionAvocado oil's high MUFA content offers promising metabolic benefits. Further research is needed to standardize its therapeutic application, considering cultivar-dependent variations in composition.