Go Nuts! Why coconuts are so good for you.

Benefits of coconut milk

Higher in calcium than regular milk and almond milk.

Nutrient Rich

Coconut milk is rich in a wide range of minerals and vitamins.  It contains iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium, and also the following important vitamins: C, E, B1, B3, B5 and B6.  Coconut milk is also a good source of protein.

Boost immune system

Half the medium-chain fatty acids in coconut milk are composed of lauric acid, which is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and anti-fungal thus strengthening the immune system.

Weight loss

The saturated fat in coconut is made up of short-chain and medium-chain fatty acids which the body quickly turns into energy instead of storing as fat.  Therefore, even though it’s high in saturated fat, coconut can aid in weight loss.  No wonder it’s the number one recommended milk for protein shakes.  It is also said to boost metabolism.  Coconut milk makes you feel full very quickly because of high concentrations of dietary fibre.

Relaxes muscles and nerves

Rich in magnesium which can help relieve and ease cramps, muscle soreness.

Aids in digestion

Coconut milk contains beneficial substances that allow the stomach to digest food properly.  Due to the high content of lauric acid, coconut milk is anti-bacterial and it helps ward off bad bacteria in the stomach.  Bad bacteria can cause poor digestion and effect immunity.  So adding coconut milk to your diet will aid digestive health.

Dairy free, nut free and vegan

Coconut milk is a dairy-free alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or allergic to nuts. This vegan drink is also soy-free and gluten-free.

Benefits of Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

It is very important when choosing an oil that it is heat stable so that when you cook/stir fry oil does not become damaged.  Coconut oil is heat stable, unlike vegetable oils and olive oil which cannot take the heat and go through detrimental changes causing many health problems.

Weight management

Native populations from the tropical coastal areas of the Pacific were not overweight despite a diet rich in coconut.  A 2009 study published in Lipids found that coconut oil supplementation reduced waist circumference and did not raise total cholesterol levels.

Coconut water – Mother Nature’s super hydrating drink!

Contains more potassium than 4 bananas, easily digested carbohydrates and electrolytes.  With less sugar than sports drinks and less sodium, coconut water becomes an excellent replacement for high sugar, artificially sweetened drinks and sodas.

After drinking use the young flesh for smoothies and coconut yoghurt see recipes!