4 Benefits of Coconut you Didn't Know
Coconut, an exotic and refreshing fruit, a food widely used in the new organic and vegan cuisine. For its properties and health benefits it is essential in the home and that is why we leave you 4 benefits of coconut you didn’t know before.
This is a wonderful creation of nature with multiple health benefits. The green coconut has a diameter of up to 40 cm and weighs about 2.5 kg. It is surrounded by a thick shell with a leathery, waterproof outer layer. Underneath, it has another fibrous layer, which takes on a hairy appearance when dried.
The coconut is practically 100% usable for various uses, both culinary and cosmetic, as it is used both in cooking recipes and in creams, gels, lip balms and lotions; both for its composition in nutrients and fatty acids and for its texture, color, flavor and characteristic smell.
1. It is rich in vitamins
Due to its constitution, coconut is a fruit with properties of vitamin E, which has an important antioxidant action on the skin and is ideal to provide energy to people. It also has vitamin C, B1 and B2, Potassium, Phosphorus, Iron and Calcium.
Coconut meat is an excellent source of vitamin B and minerals such as potassium. In addition, 100 grams contain 354 kcal that are distributed in 3.4 grams of protein, 33.4 grams of fat, 15.2 grams of carbohydrates and 9 grams of fiber.
Coconut oil, although it may contain saturated fats, is one of the healthiest, as it is rich in lauric acid, a type of fat that promotes good cholesterol (HDL). Thus, 100 grams of coconut oil have a nutritional value of 862 kcal and 100 grams of fat.
Coconut water is a refreshing and healthy liquid that contains more potassium than four bananas, is low in calories and cholesterol-free. This water contains 19 kcal per 100 ml, 1 g of protein, 4 g of carbohydrates and 1 g of fiber.
2. It is a long-lasting fruit
Unopened coconut purchased in stores and markets is usually not fresh, as it may take weeks or months to reach the shelves. Therefore, its shelf life depends on the original freshness. In most cases, whole coconut can be kept for a maximum of four months at room temperature.
It should be noted that signs of spoilage may appear much earlier, even after one week. Once opened, the meat should be used immediately and the leftovers stored in the refrigerator. In this way, you will be able to keep the coconut fresh for 6 to 8 months refrigerated.
Freezing coconut is considered a much more efficient way to preserve the fruit. A coconut frozen with the Prime Freezing System can extend its shelf life by up to two years, plus it will ensure that 100% of the coconut is in perfect condition and you can enjoy its flavor to the fullest whenever you prefer.
3. Excellent source of energy for the day to day
It should be noted that coconut water is an excellent source of hydration, due to its high content of electrolytes composed of minerals such as sodium or potassium, which favors the rapid absorption of nutrients in the body of an important source of glucose, capable of providing the body with a lot of energy, especially during any sporting activity and of course work. In addition, it does not contain gluten.
4. Helps Maintain Good Health
As for the properties and benefits of coconut, it can favor the immune system due to its magnesium content, and the digestive system due to its fiber content.
In addition, due to its high potassium content, it helps the proper functioning of normal muscular and neurological function and the maintenance of normal blood pressure and muscles and bones due to its potassium, magnesium and calcium content.
It has been estimated that 50% of coconut fat is lauric acid, a type of lipid that increases good cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. It also has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties.
Coconut Recipes
Homemade Coconut Milk
The recipe is simple. Put the clean meat pieces in a blender and add the coconut water. If you have a ripe coconut with little water, add a cup of drinking water instead.
Put the blender on the fastest mode and blend the contents for about 60 seconds. Once the process is finished, pour the milk into a glass bottle.
If you want, you can experiment and add a little vanilla extract, cinnamon or some other sweet spice to the mixture. Homemade coconut milk can be refrigerated for three or four days.
Toothpaste with Coconut Oil
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 3 tablespoons of baking soda
- ½ sachet of Stevia powder
- 1 small handful of mint
In a jar place the indicated measures of coconut oil, baking soda and Stevia, mix well until the ingredients are fully integrated, once it became a paste add the peppermint and stir.
