Coconuts are the tropical fruit from the coconut palm. This 4,500-year-old treat has many health benefits and can be used in many different ways. Coconuts can be used for their water, milk, oil, and meat. Recently, coconuts have been given more spotlight for many alternative culinary treats for those with allergies and vegan desserts in place of traditional dairy or flour. With a tropical flavor, a variety of ways it can be processed and used, and a list of ever-growing nutritional benefits you can see why this exotic fruit has gained so much popularity.
Coconuts have firm white flesh and a slightly sweet and tropical flavor. Everything but the hard outside brown shell can be used, making it an extremely versatile ingredient. It can be processed into dried coconut flakes, flour, oil, milk, cream, and you can even drink the water it holds inside. The raw white meat itself is referred to as kernel, and can be consumed as is or processed into other coconut products. The uses for coconut are seemingly endless. From food, to beauty, to cleaning it covers it all. Coconut has become so popular, and in so many products, the industry itself is projected to hit just over 30 billion by 2026.
I typically use coconut in cooking SCD recipes; as it is a key ingredient in replacing traditional saturated oils, fats, milk, cream, and flour. It’s a great sautéing and baking substitute and can even be used in savory soups and sauces. So, what exactly is it that you’re using? The coconut fruit is high in carbohydrates that provide fat. They also contain vitamin B, protein, manganese, copper, iron, and selenium. The fats, however, come in a slightly different form than others. Most fat found in coconut is MCT’s (medium-chain triglycerides). This fat will metabolize differently, in that it is absorbed directly by the small intestine, making it easy for quick energy use.
Coconut also has a range of health benefits. Virgin coconut oil may reduce your risk for heart disease by lowering cholesterol and excess fat. One study done on obese individuals found that male participants lost an inch on average after consuming 1 ounce of coconut oil daily for 4 weeks. Female counterparts saw a reduction of a half inch in 12 weeks consuming refined coconut oil. It also may help stabilize blood sugar. Coconuts also contain arginine, an amino acid, that helps pancreatic cells to function properly. In a study when coconut was given to rats their pancreases started making more insulin which helps to regulate blood sugar levels. Coconut has a high fiber content which can slow digestion and improve insulin resistance. Lastly, coconuts have many antioxidants that help protect cells from damage lowering your risk of disease.
With so many options, coconut is easy to add to your diet. Coconut is SCD legal, but should only be consumed without any additives or added sugars, and after symptoms have disappeared. Keep in mind coconut contains a lot of fiber making it hard to digest, especially while you’re experiencing symptoms. When symptoms are gone, it should still be used with caution at first. Whether you add coconut flour to baked goods, sauté with coconut oil, or sprinkle it dried in a smoothie you and your body will love this tropical treat!
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