Coconut not only enchances the flavor of many dishes but is also used as main dish ingredient in many recipes. It can be used to make coconut chutney, coconut cookies, coconut rice, coconut noodle soup, coconut mango smoothies and many more. Not only coconut water, but coconut fat, coconut oil, coconut milk are healthy for human body. Apart from its flavour and taste coconut is healthy too.
Coconut Fat– Initially it was believed that coconut fat being saturated is not good for heart. However nutritionist now say that though coconut has saturated fat it is the right kind of saturated fat. They found that unlike some other fat this coconut fat was high in medium-chain fatty acids, which rather than being stored as fat, are quickly turned into energy and actually help the body burn fat and reduce hunger.
Around half of this fatty acids are lauric acid which is found in human breast milk and which has powerful antivacterial properties. So in sensible quanity coconut fat is considered good for heart.
Coconut water– Coconut water has essential electrolytes which makes it great for rehydrating after exercise. It is high in potassium and contains calcium and magnesium and alkalizes the body. It is also a store house of Vitamins D, E, and K. It has antii n – flammatory Omega 3 fatty acids. It boosts immune system and has not only elements which rehydrates the body but also cools the body temperature.
Coconut water is said to be healthy for kidney and bladder problems. Coconut water also has anti-viral and an antifungal property that helps you in sickness likes flu and herpes. It also promotes water loss. Coconut also helps prevent obesity by speeding up metabolism and provides an immediate source of energy with fewer calories than other fats.
Coconut milk– Coconut milk has been found to ease sore throat and is said to be good even for stomach ulcer.
Coconut oil– Coconut oil too has several benefits. It is said to heal cut, scratches, burns and sunburns. It also makes the skin soft and smooth, just apply it to hands and feet, keep it for some time, till the body soaks. It is a good moisturizer, so massaging it gently into the face makes the skin glow naturally.
One part of sugar and one part of coconut oil is said to be good exfoliating body scrub. It also acts as a natural lip balm. Its application can prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. Coconut blossom nectar are also used by many as natural sweetener.
Article by – Dr Rajendra Gawai, MBBS DVD
