Coconut belongs to Arecaceae, the palm tree family. Coconut is the only living species of the genus Cocos. Coconuts have slowly become a very hot and versatile food commodity. They are being used in everything from our daily cuisine to our beauty regimens.
Not too long ago, coconuts had a bad reputation as being an artery-clogging, cholesterol-packed food that contributed to heart disease. Today, however, the coconut is making a huge comeback as the new miracle food.
Coconuts are highly nutritious, rich in fiber, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. From culinary creations to magic beauty potions, coconuts pack a good punch.What is it about this exotic food that continues to tantalize and intimidate us at the same time? Let’s explore more of the amazing health benefits of coconut and what they have to offer.
Benefits
Coconuts are known to have numerous health benefits, among many others.
1. High in dietary fibre – Its whopping 61% of fibre helps slow down the release of glucose.
2. Controls Diabetes – It improves the insulin secretion and utilisation of blood glucose.
3. Anti-ageing – Cytokinins, kinetin and trans-zeatin present in coconut have anti thrombotic, anti-carcinogenic and anti-ageing effects on the body.
4. Boosts immunity -Intake of coconut oil can help the body to mount resistance to both viruses and bacteria that cause illness.
5. Treats abdominal fats – Coconut is also beneficial in treating dangerous fats in the abdominal cavity.
6. Boosts energy – Coconut helps to increase energy by burning fat.
7. Helps hydration – Coconut water contains crucial electrolytes that help in maintaining hydration.
8. Nutritious and healthy – Coconut water is considered to be more nutritious and healthier than whole milk as it contains lauric acid which is considered equivalent to mother’s milk.
9. Controls acidity – Coconut water can also help to alleviate acidity and heartburn problems.
10. Fights bacteria – Coconut contains high content of monolaurin and lauric acid which helps to kill bacteria, viruses and fungi and keeps infections at bay.