Do you know that the avocado seed is the most nutritious part of the fruit? It is full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. However, many people avoid eating the seed because it is very bitter. Here, we will explore why avocado seeds are so bitter and discuss some ways to reduce the bitterness.

What Are Avocado Seeds?

Avocado seeds are the large stone in the middle of an avocado. Avocado seeds are generally discarded or thrown away, but some people believe that they’re very nutritious and can be added to smoothies or used to make tea!

The seed is covered with a thin layer of edible skin called an exocarp, which is dark brown on some avocado varieties and green on others. Beneath that is a thick woody husk called an endocarp. The seed is within this woody shell, which has a greenish-white hue when removed from its shell.

Why Are Avocado Seeds Bitter?

When you think about why avocado seeds are bitter, it’s important to realize that bitterness is a major defense mechanism for plants. Bitterness is often associated with chemicals known as tannins, which protect plants against creatures that might try to eat them. 

Think of tannins as nature’s saying, “stop eating me!” It’s not just animals that are discouraged from eating these parts of the plant; in some cases, they also discourage other plants from growing near them (a process known as allelopathy).

How To Make Avocado Seeds Not Bitter?

The best way to remove the bitterness is washing and rinsing them thoroughly. Start with removing seeds from avocado fruit. Use a spoon or knife to remove it safely without harming yourself. 

They should be dried out in an oven for a few hours at high temperatures. Once dry, powder them in a food processor or blender. The powder can then be added to your shakes, salads, sauces.

Benefits Of Bitter Avocado Seeds.

Avocado seeds are a rich source of antioxidants. Antioxidants can help to reduce blood sugar levels, and cholesterol levels, as well as help reduce inflammation. 

Avocado seeds can also help with your digestion and may even be able to act as an antifungal or antiviral treatment. Their high fiber content can also help you feel more satiated when you eat them so that you do not overeat or snack unnecessarily. 

Side Effects Of Avocado Seeds.

Safety tests on avocado seed are in the early stages and limited to animal studies.

Some studies side effects seen from eating avocado seeds include-

• Allergic Reaction
• Stomach Upset
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Their consumption is not recommended if you have any pre-existing conditions. Some cases where it’s best to avoid eating avocado seeds include:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding 
• Blood Thinning 
• Kidney Stones 
• Digestive Issues

Conclusion

There isn’t sufficient study to show the benefits or harms of avocado seeds. There are only animal and test-tube studies and no human studies. 

If you must have avocado seeds, keep the intake to minimum to be on the safer side.