23. Coconut: Health Benefits, Nutrition & Side Effects
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Coconut: Health Benefits, Nutrition & Side Effects
Coconut: Health Benefits, Nutrition & Side Effects
You can eat one fruit and have a healthy heart, healthy skin and healthy brain — and maybe in your kitchen right now.
Coconut isn't just for eating at the tropics. Chock full of nutrients, healthy fats and natural minerals your body needs. As with everything, there are a few things you should be aware of that aren't great. Let's take a closer look.
High in Healthy Fats.
Coconut is well known for its healthy fat content, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Unlike many other fats, MCT is not easily broken down for energy, but is saved in the body. Healthy fats can help to maintain brain function, boost energy, and help you feel fuller longer, thereby decreasing the chances of overeating. However, it also contains calories so it is important to eat coconut in moderation and incorporate it into a healthy diet.
Boosts Heart Health.
One study indicates that coconut increases the HDL cholesterol in the body. This will contribute to lowering your total cholesterol down to more normal levels. It does have saturated fat, but that's a good reason to consume it in moderation, if you have concerns about your heart.
Supports Immunity.
Coconut contains high quantities of lauric acid, a unique saturated fat that has been proven to have anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal effects. The lauric acid in the body is converted to a substance called monolaurin that has some inhibitory effect on certain harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi. The natural process can help to strengthen the body's immune system and reduce the likelihood of getting some infections. Coconut is also packed with lauric acid, and also contains small amounts of antioxidants that are effective against damage that free radicals do to your cells. Overall, coconut is a healthy food to include in a well-balanced diet and may assist in maintaining a healthy immune system, but more in-depth, well-designed studies in humans are required to confirm the benefits of coconut for immunity on a long-term basis.
Great for Skin and Hair.
Coconut oil is a well-known element of beauty programs. It may help to condition dry, irritated skin; it may help to tame frizzy hair; and can help to calm minor skin irritations. It is applied topically by many to create a natural radiant shine.
Aids Digestion.
Coconut meat is rich in fibre, aiding digestion. It facilitates the food to move smoothly through the intestine and may help to remove the bloating. Coconut water also helps to keep you hydrated and replenishes electrolytes.
Excellent Source of Nutrients.
Manganese, copper, iron and selenium are found in the coconut. These minerals help maintain healthy bone structure, energy levels and prevent damage to your cells.
Watched Side Effects.
Coconut is a high-glycemic food and is rich in calories and saturated fat, so it's important to take in moderation if you're at risk for weight gain or high cholesterol. Coconut should also be avoided by persons with nut allergy as it can sometimes reactivate the allergy. Coconut water in excess may cause an electrolyte imbalance too.
So, coconut is a super fruit for sure and has some benefits, but balance is key. Use in moderation and savor it for the health benefits it has to offer. If you enjoyed this post, give a like, subscribe for more health tips and I'll see you next time on the video!Com
You can eat one fruit and have a healthy heart, healthy skin and healthy brain — and maybe in your kitchen right now.
Coconut isn't just for eating at the tropics. Chock full of nutrients, healthy fats and natural minerals your body needs. As with everything, there are a few things you should be aware of that aren't great. Let's take a closer look.
High in Healthy Fats.
Coconut is well known for its healthy fat content, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Unlike many other fats, MCT is not easily broken down for energy, but is saved in the body. Healthy fats can help to maintain brain function, boost energy, and help you feel fuller longer, thereby decreasing the chances of overeating. However, it also contains calories so it is important to eat coconut in moderation and incorporate it into a healthy diet.
Boosts Heart Health.
One study indicates that coconut increases the HDL cholesterol in the body. This will contribute to lowering your total cholesterol down to more normal levels. It does have saturated fat, but that's a good reason to consume it in moderation, if you have concerns about your heart.
Supports Immunity.
Coconut contains high quantities of lauric acid, a unique saturated fat that has been proven to have anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal effects. The lauric acid in the body is converted to a substance called monolaurin that has some inhibitory effect on certain harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi. The natural process can help to strengthen the body's immune system and reduce the likelihood of getting some infections. Coconut is also packed with lauric acid, and also contains small amounts of antioxidants that are effective against damage that free radicals do to your cells. Overall, coconut is a healthy food to include in a well-balanced diet and may assist in maintaining a healthy immune system, but more in-depth, well-designed studies in humans are required to confirm the benefits of coconut for immunity on a long-term basis.
Great for Skin and Hair.
Coconut oil is a well-known element of beauty programs. It may help to condition dry, irritated skin; it may help to tame frizzy hair; and can help to calm minor skin irritations. It is applied topically by many to create a natural radiant shine.
Aids Digestion.
Coconut meat is rich in fibre, aiding digestion. It facilitates the food to move smoothly through the intestine and may help to remove the bloating. Coconut water also helps to keep you hydrated and replenishes electrolytes.
Excellent Source of Nutrients.
Manganese, copper, iron and selenium are found in the coconut. These minerals help maintain healthy bone structure, energy levels and prevent damage to your cells.
Watched Side Effects.
Coconut is a high-glycemic food and is rich in calories and saturated fat, so it's important to take in moderation if you're at risk for weight gain or high cholesterol. Coconut should also be avoided by persons with nut allergy as it can sometimes reactivate the allergy. Coconut water in excess may cause an electrolyte imbalance too.
So, coconut is a super fruit for sure and has some benefits, but balance is key. Use in moderation and savor it for the health benefits it has to offer. If you enjoyed this post, give a like, subscribe for more health tips and I'll see you next time on the video!Com