simply, sipping coconut water to hydrate, and even slather the oil on our hair and skin is really good for you....
health
One of the most commonly found cooking essential in our homes, a humble coconut may have more than one use that you may know of... from dried coconut garnishing on desserts to chutneys, sipping coconut water on a hot summer day to hot oil hair massages, we have been using the goodness of this superfood in various forms over generations.
Coconuts are a powerhouse, providing us with a vast range of products and benefits. The tender white flesh inside the coconut is used in an array of cooking recipes and the oil, milk, and water is used for both cooking and non-cooking purposes. Coconut butter, coconut cream, and coconut oil are staple by-products used in beauty products, and the husks and leaves of coconuts are used for making doormats, roofs, and huts.
A part from making delicious piña coladas, Thai dishes, khaosueys and candy bars, coconuts are now used in many things. Coconut oil is used for cooking and sometimes used in coffee. Adding shredded coconut to oatmeal or blending frozen sheets of coconut in smoothies makes for a yummy breakfast. Or simply, sipping coconut water to hydrate, and even slather the oil on our hair and skin is really good for you.
Research has proven that people who consume coconut daily are healthier when compared to those who don’t. In some countries it is a dietary fibre that people have thrived on for many generations. Here are some benefits that this superfood offers:
Its water contains lots of nutrients: In addition to being naturally sweet and hydrating, coconut water is loaded with several important nutrients, including minerals that many people don’t get enough of. Coconut water contains 94 per cent water and very little fat. Studies show that coconut water contains antioxidants that help modify free radicals in body, which can help speed up recovery process after stress or injury. Moreover, coconut water is also effective at replenishing fluids and electrolytes after exercise.
Helps in lowering blood sugar: Coconut improves the insulin secretion and utilisation of blood glucose. It controls diabetes by positively affecting the hormones for blood sugar control. This slows down the rise in blood sugar level and helps to reduce glycemic cravings. It benefits quick digestion and other symptoms associated with digestive and bowel disorders. It supports absorption of nutrients and minerals while providing dietary fibre. It also reduces vomiting and nausea.
May keep bones and teeth healthy: Eating coconuts regularly supports the development of healthy bones and teeth. It improves the body’s ability to absorb calcium and manganese which aid bone development. It also prevents osteoporosis, a condition which makes the bones thin and fragile and loses its density. Thus it is a healthy alternative for those who are lactose intolerant.
Helps with digestion and gut health: Constipation is the result of a diet low on fibre. 61 per cent of coconut is all fibre, which is why your gut health and bowel movement stays in check. Coconuts are high in fibre, which helps bulk up your stool and supports bowel regularity, keeping your digestive system healthy. Since these fruits are likewise high in fat, they can help your body absorb fat-soluble nutrients, including vitamins A, D, E, and K.
May improve immunity: Manganese and antioxidants in coconut may help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. This fruit’s MCTs may also have antiviral, antifungal, and tumour-suppressing properties.
May reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s: According to a study published in the journal ‘Nutrient’, Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) are exclusively found in coconut and have ketogenic properties that might help in preventing Alzheimer’s as well as other cognitive disorders. Basically, coconut fats have therapeutic properties that keep mental health in check.
Ways to enjoy coconuts:
A sweet and tangy spread: If you are tired of the same old butters and jams, this is a good option for you. Purée fresh coconut with lime, pineapple juice and plain yogurt to make a spreadable topping for your favourite breads or muffins.
Coconut fruit dip: This could be a really cool evening snack that you can enjoy with the family. Combine low-fat plain yogurt, a packet of sugar-free vanilla pudding mix, coconut extract, and puréed fresh or crushed coconut. Dip all of your favourite fruit in this sweet dip. You can also stack either fresh or canned pineapples for some piña colada vibes.
An exotic salad: Julienne some fresh mango, red pepper and spring onions, and mix with a finely sliced chilli, a little grated ginger and chopped basil. Top the salad with a dressing of fresh lime juice, coconut oil, salt and pepper.
A healthy granola: If you are trying to eat healthy, granolas are a great. And it’s best if you make your own since you can control the number of calories. Grab some whole oats, favourite nuts, including coconut shavings, dried fruits, some chocolate chips and coconut oil. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, nuts and/or seeds, salt and cinnamon. Stir to blend. Pour in the oil, maple syrup and/or honey and vanilla. Mix well, until every oat and nut is lightly coated. Pour the granola onto your prepared pan and use a large spoon to spread it in an even layer. Bake until lightly golden, about 21 to 24 minutes, stirring halfway (for extra-clumpy granola, press the stirred granola down with your spatula to create a more even layer). The granola will further crisp up as it cools.
An easy-to-make parfait: Layer your delicious homemade granola, low-fat vanilla yogurt, coconut and other favourite fruits for a quick breakfast or dessert.
Coconut milk peppermint hot chocolate: Coconut milk is generally too thick to drink as a plain beverage, but if you turn it into hot chocolate, all that richness really works in its favour and turns it into an amazingly creamy drink. You can use either dark chocolate or a hot chocolate premix. Heat it up on the stove for 5 minutes, mix with a whisk and serve with two drops of peppermint extract.
