coconut and it’s benefits
COCONUT
Coconut is a high-fat fruit that has a wide range of health benefits. These include providing you with disease-fighting antioxidants, promoting blood sugar regulation, and reducing certain risk factors for heart disease.
5 IMPRESSIVE BENEFITS OF COCONUT
Coconut is the fruit of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera).
It’s used for its water, milk, oil, and tasty meat.
Coconuts have been grown in tropical regions for more than 4,500 years but recently increased in popularity for their flavor, culinary uses, and potential health benefits (1).
HERE ARE 5 HEALTH AND NUTRITION BENEFITS OF COCONUT
Share on PinterestTypes of coconut products
The raw white meat inside a coconut is referred to as the kernel. It has a firm texture and delicious, slightly sweet flavor
If you have a whole coconut, you can scrape the raw meat out of the shell and eat it. In its processed form, you’ll usually find it sliced, shaved, or grated
Coconut milk and cream are made by pressing the raw, grated meat
Dried coconut meat is usually grated or shaved and used in cooking or baking. It can be further processed and ground into flour
Coconut oil is also extracted from the meat
1. Highly nutritious
Unlike many other fruits that are high in carbs, coconuts provide mostly fat
They also contain protein, several important minerals, and small amounts of B vitamins. However, they’re not a significant source of most other vitamins
The minerals in coconut are involved in many functions in your body. Coconuts are especially high in manganese, which is essential for bone health and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol
They’re also rich in copper and iron, which help form red blood cells, as well as selenium, an important antioxidant that protects your cells.
2. May benefit heart health
Eating coconut may improve cholesterol levels and help decrease belly fat, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
3. May promote blood sugar control
Coconut is low in carbs and high in fiber and fat, so it may help stabilize your blood sugar.
Coconut is low in carbs and rich in amino acids, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a great choice for blood sugar control.
4. Contains powerful antioxidants
Coconut meat contains phenolic compounds, which are antioxidants that may help protect cells from oxidative damage. The main phenolic compounds identified include
- gallic acid
- caffeic acid
- salicylic acid
- p-coumaric acid
Coconuts contain polyphenol antioxidants that can protect your cells from damage, which may reduce your disease risk.
5. Easy to add to your diet
Flaked or shaved, coconut adds a nice flavor to savory dishes. Its meaty texture and flavor work well in curries, fish stews, rice dishes, or even on breaded shrimp.
Be aware that some brands contain added sugar, which you may not want for savory dishes. Be sure to check the ingredient label.
Coconut is versatile in the kitchen and works well in both sweet and savory foods. It’s a great choice for those on low-carb, paleo, gluten-free, or nut-free diets
