Wholly guacamole!

It looks like even dips are going functional these days and, with National Guacamole Day around the corner, you may want to stock up on the avocado treat.

Wholly Guacamole is using the fact that the September 16 th celebration is just a few short days away to plug its product. "

Using all natural guacamole as a dip or condiment is healthy eating ," said the company in a written release.

Avocados contain antioxidants and phytonutrients, including vitamin C, folate, vitamin E, fibre and unsaturated fats.

They are naturally sodium-free, contain no trans fats and are low in saturated fat.

Last week NutraIngredients-USA reported on a study out of Ohio State University that found avocado phytochemicals were able to kill some cancer cells and prevent pre-cancerous cells from developing into actual cancers.

Writing in Seminars in Cancer Biology , lead author Steven D'Ambrosio said avocado should be added to a list of fruits as part of a "cancer prevention diet" and predicts future studies may discover other cancer preventing phytochemicals.

A 2005 study by UCLA scientists had noted the fruit may have an ability to inhibit the growth of prostate cancer.

Wholly Guacamole is touting the traditional avocado condiment as a high source of potassium - 60 percent more than bananas - as well as a source of lutein.

The manufacturer insinuates the condiment can act as a fruit or vegetable serving.

"W hether you dip it or spread it, adding guacamole is better than butter, sour cream or ranch," the company said.

"

And because it's made with fruit, guacamole counts towards your "5-A-Day" to stay healthy plan."

Given nutritionists' reaction to juices, this is advice they are not likely to favour across the board, for one more than one fruit or vegetable serving replacement.

After all, juice - oft marketed by manufacturers for its nutritional properties - is only advised as a replacement for one of the daily recommended servings of fruits and vegetables.

Source: Seminars in Cancer Biology Chemopreventive characteristics of avocado fruit doi:10.1016/j.semcancer.2007.04.003 Authors: Haiming Ding, Young-Won Chin, Douglas Kinghorn, Steven D'Ambrosio.