(P22-051-24) Exploring Avocado Consumption and Health: A Scoping Review and Evidence Map

Objectives: Comprehensively review previously published research on avocado intake and health to identify trends and gaps and guide future research and policy. This scoping review further evaluated the breadth and generalizability of the dietary avocado evidence base, considering all study types, populations, ages, health statuses, sexes, and health outcomes.

Methods: We performed a literature search for studies up to October 2023. Four databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CENTRAL) and backwards citation screening were implemented, following PRISMA guidelines. Screening and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers, with conflict resolution, and a database was created and visualized.

Results: We identified 7262 studies, 64 of which met inclusion criteria. Most studies were interventions (n=48: crossover, n=21 ; parallel-arm, n=25 ; single-arm, n=2) and the remaining studies were observational (n= 6: cohorts, n=7 ; cross-sectional, n=5 ; case-control, n=1 ; survey, n=3). Populations generally included adults (n=60 studies), from the United States (n=7) or Mexico (n=10), who were generally healthy. On average, 59% of participants were female. The median reported avocado intake ranged from 124.5-168.0 g/d in crossover and parallel-arm trials, and between 4.6-30.0 g/d in cohorts, cross-sectional studies, and surveys. Lipid- (n=28 studies), metabolic- (n=23), and anthropometric-related measures (n=21) were the most commonly reported outcomes in interventions. Emerging outcomes of interest included immunity (n=14), cognition (n=3), microbiota (n=2), and skin health (n=1). Observational trials largely assessed anthropometrics and cardiometabolic outcomes.

Conclusions: The impact of avocado intake on lipids and anthropometrics in healthy adults is well-described. Opportunities for novel research include alternative populations and outcomes. This evidence map was created to enable further meta-analyses, enhance communication and transparency in avocado research, and to serve as a resource for policy guidance.

Funding Sources: Avocado Nutrition Center