Coconut is not only an exotic fruit, but also a unique source of vitamins, minerals and useful substances. Somewhere it grows literally on trees. In other countries, it can only be bought in a store. Due to its rich composition, it is actively used in cooking, cosmetology and medicine. In this article, we will consider the main properties of coconut and its health benefits.
What is the nutritional value of coconut?
Coconut flesh, water and oil contain many useful substances:
- Vitamins: groups B, C, E, K.
- Minerals: magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc.
- Healthy fats: saturated fatty acids, including lauric acid, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties.
These components make coconut a nutritious food that helps keep your body energized.
Benefits of coconut water
Coconut water is a natural isotonic beverage that is rich in electrolytes such as potassium and sodium. It has the following benefits:
- Hydration. Helps restore water balance after physical activity.
- Heart Support. Regulates blood pressure levels due to its high potassium content.
- Immune Enhancement. Contains cytokinins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Coconut flesh a source of energy and fiber
The white flesh of coconut is rich in fiber, which:
- Improves digestion and promotes colon cleansing.
- Helps maintain blood sugar levels.
- Gives a feeling of satiety, which is good for weight control.
Coconut is even used to make oil. Let’s find out what are its benefits.
Benefits of coconut oil
Coconut oil is a versatile product that is used both in cooking and in skin and hair care. Its benefits include:
- Skin and hair health. It nourishes, moisturizes and protects the skin from environmental damage. It prevents hair breakage and gives your hair shine. Your hair looks like in shampoo commercials.
- Energy for the body. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are quickly digested and turn into an energy source. This gives you a boost of energy.
- Inflammation reduction. The oil has a mild anti-inflammatory effect, which is beneficial for arthritis and other chronic conditions.
Antioxidant properties and immune support
Coconut contains many beneficial antioxidants that fight free radicals, slowing down the aging process. They reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer. The lauric acid in coconut helps fight viruses, bacteria and fungi. This makes coconut essential during seasonal colds and infections.
Brain benefits
Coconut oil helps in improving cognitive functions. The medium-chain triglycerides in it are converted into ketones, an alternative source of energy for the brain. Studies show that coconut oil may be beneficial in preventing and treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Here are some interesting facts about coconuts that show their benefits:
- Not a nut, but a fruit. Although the coconut is called a nut, botanically speaking it is a knuckle, a fruit similar in structure to a peach or plum. Its hard interior is surrounded by pulp and a shell.
- Unique water. Coconut water is the sterile liquid inside a young coconut. It was used during wartime as a substitute for saline solution for intravenous infusions.
- Versatile tree. The coconut palm is called the “tree of life” in tropical countries because almost all of its parts can be used: the wood for building, the leaves for roofs and baskets, the coconuts for food and drink, and the coconut husks for ropes and mattresses.
- Long “floating” life. Coconuts are able to float in the ocean for up to 120 days while retaining the ability to germinate. Because of this, they have spread around the world.
- Coconut milk is not coconut water. Coconut milk is made from the shredded pulp of a mature coconut mixed with water, unlike coconut water which is already inside the fruit.
- Largest coconut. The palm species Lodoicea maldivica, known as the sea coconut palm (or “coco-de-mer”), produces fruits weighing up to 30 kilograms. These are the heaviest seeds on the planet.
- Coconut water as an isotonic. Coconut water is often referred to as nature’s isotonic drink. It helps restore electrolyte balance after exercise.
- Coconuts as a hazard. According to statistics, coconuts cause the death of about 150 people each year by falling on them from a great height.
- Coconuts in culture. In Polynesian culture, the coconut is considered a symbol of prosperity. It also plays an important role in rituals, myths, and daily life.
How can you eat coconut?
Here are some tips on how to add coconut to your diet:
- Coconut water — consume pure or add to smoothies.
- Coconut pulp — use in desserts, cereal or as a healthy snack.
- Coconut oil — add to baked goods, salad dressings or use for frying.
- Coconut milk: — the perfect base for soups, sauces and coffee.
Coconut is a versatile product that benefits the body and pleases the palate. Including it in your diet improves the health of your heart, skin, hair, as well as supports your immune system and helps fight inflammation. Use coconut in your diet and care to get the most out of this natural gift!
To learn about the benefits of other products, go to the Benefits food page.