Nuts about Coconuts!!

One of the most commonly found cooking essential in Indian homes, a humble coconut may have more than one use that you may know of...from garnishing to chutneys, sipping coconut water on a hot summer day to hot oil chammpi's, we have been using the goodness of this superfood in various forms over generations. While the commonly known benefits of coconut are that it is incredibly rich in vitamins, minerals, and calories, this is one fruit that can provide you with a daily dose of almost all essential nutrients! A coconut can be bought in many forms, either a whole which can be desiccated or milked from, oil or cream or even in the form of coconut water. All its forms serve as a rich source of nutrients, which is why you may see why health-conscious blindly trust this holy-grail food ingredient.

In our house hold coconut was a common ingredient for carrot, beetroot and many sabzis! We discovered the joy of freshly squeezed coconut milk when we visited Kerala a few years ago. Nothing can describe the absolutely fresh and delectable taste of that freshly squeezed milk that was served for breakfast everyday in the resort we stayed at. I tried a lot of organic canned coconut milks but still it was no where close to the fresh and rich taste. I started making coconut milk at home and had my kids and neighbor's kids gulp it down along with adults! Coconuttycane was born out of this passion to bring freshly squeezed coconut milk and any Coconut based items fresh without any preservatives to everyone!

Why is it called a superfood? Coconut, widely used in South India is a blessing for all of us because of its major health benefits. Being a healthy fat, it is highly soothing and nourishing to our gut health and hence, it allows the healthy optimum digestion of the nutrients found in food. Coconut has anti-inflammatory properties and it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It is good for skin, hair, weight management, good for bones, and keeps you hydrated. Plus, there are a number of ways you can consume a coconut- you can have coconut water, coconut meat, desiccated or shredded coconut or coconut oil. So many health benefits and versatility of consumption makes it a superfood! Rich in copper and iron, it helps produce red blood cells, as well as selenium, an important antioxidant that protects your cells. Consuming virgin coconut oil, which is extracted from dried coconut meat, may help reduce belly fat. This is especially beneficial because excess belly fat increases your risk of heart disease and diabetes. We are also informed that the meat is high in fibre which helps slow digestion and improves insulin resistance, which can help regulate blood sugar levels as well. Coconut meat contains phenolic compounds, which are antioxidants that may help protect cells from oxidative damage and may reduce your disease risk.

Coconut milk has recently gained much momentum in the health and fitness industry. It is packed with various vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, E, B Vitamins, iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus that can do wonders to your health like nothing else! While the entire world seems to be moving to healthier alternatives, you may see the traditional cow milk shelves at your local supermarket being traded off for vegan alternatives. Coconut milk is known as a tasty and healthier alternative to the milk obtained from the cow with the brownie point of amazing health benefits. Coconut milk is primed from the white flesh of the ripped coconut and it is extremely dense and taste delicious! It is a great replacement for milk for vegans. Also, for people with weak gut health, coconut milk should be taken to soothe their gut. Coconut yoghurt is very healthy and rich in probiotics too. Did you know? Coconut milk contains a good amount of lauric acid – a fatty acid which is also in mother’s milk!

Coconuts are exotic sweet fruits. Coconut trees are widely grown in tropical regions. They are like an elixir in our daily lives. Every part of the coconut tree can fulfill our daily necessities. Coconut oil, coconut water, milk, coconut flesh, wood for fuel, husk for scrubber, and ropes are some of the many things we get from a coconut tree. Also, coconut is full of cosmetic and medicinal properties. Each part of the fruit is edible such as: Raw white flesh: We can eat the sweet delicious white part as raw or dried. Raw flesh is a part of many Indian dishes such as chutney, curries, fish stews, and rice dishes.

Shaved or grated dried coconut flesh is used in many dishes, such as cookies, muffins, puddings, and ladoos, not only enhancing the taste but giving health benefits to us. Grounded dried coconut flesh (coconut flour) can substitute wheat flour in baking. Coconut flour is a gluten-free and carb-free option in dieting. Coconut milk and cream, prepared by pressing the grated raw flesh, are the main ingredient of many dishes.

Coconut water: Tender coconut water is an instant source of energy. It can refresh you instantly drink on an excruciatingly hot day. Health benefits of coconut. Coconut is a magical food. Some of the benefits are: Coconut is low in carbs, so it is the best substitute for carb-rich snacks. It contains minerals and nutrients such as potassium, sodium, manganese, vitamin B, copper, and iron. Manganese is beneficial for our bone health. Copper and iron help maintain red blood cell’s health. Coconut flesh has a high content of fat (medium-chain triglycerides) that provide instant energy and promotes fat loss in obese people. Both coconut flesh and oil have high levels of good (HDL) cholesterol which is beneficial for our hearts. Coconut is high in fiber and low in carbs, so it helps control blood sugar levels in our bodies. Coconut meat and water contain numerous antioxidants that fight against factors causing cell damage. The antioxidant also reduces the risk of many diseases such as cancer. Coconut has numerous health benefits. So, add this tasty fruit to your daily routine and enjoy all its benefits.

Note: Some of the information above has been taken from the internet.