The Miracle Fruit
Coconut is the only member of the Cocos Genus, familiar with everyone because of its husky appearance on the outside but amazing uses inside. The indigenous ancestor of this plant is controversial. Some scholars argue that it originated in Southeast Asia while others claim that it originated in northwestern South America.
Coconut grows well on sandy soils that have high salinity tolerance as well as favoring sunny habitats and moderate rainfall. The ideal humidity for cultivating coconut is 70% to 80%, which is why 80% of the world’s coconut production is grown in a tropical climate like Southeast Asia and South Asia. However, can only be planted from late November or early December because this tree is difficult to grow barren areas.
5 Impressive Benefits of Coconut
1. Highly Nutritious
Unlike many other fruits that are high in carbs, coconuts provide mostly fat, Coconuts contain protein, several important minerals, and small amounts of B vitamins. However, they’re not a significant source of most other vitamins. The minerals in coconut are involved in many functions in your body. Coconuts are especially high in manganese, which is essential for bone health and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol. They’re also rich in copper and iron, which help form red blood cells, as well as selenium, an important antioxidant that protects your cells.
2. May Benefit Heart Health
Studies have found that people who live on Polynesian islands and frequently eat coconut meat have lower rates of heart disease than those who follow a Western diet. However, native Polynesians also eat more fish and less processed foods, so it’s unclear if these lower rates are due to eating coconut or other aspects of their diet. Another study in 1,837 Filipino women found that those who ate more coconut oil not only had higher levels of HDL (good) cholesterol but also higher levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides.
Overall, it concluded that coconut oil has a neutral effect on cholesterol levels.
3. May promote blood sugar control
Coconut is low in carbs and high in fiber and fat, so it may help stabilize your blood sugar. The high fiber content of coconut meat can also help slow digestion and improve insulin resistance, which can help regulate blood sugar levels as well.
4. Contains powerful antioxidants
Coconut meat contains phenolic compounds, which are antioxidants that may help protect cells from oxidative damage. The main phenolic compounds identified including: Gallic acid, Caffeic acid, Salicylic acid, P-Coumaric acid. Lab tests on coconut meat have shown that it has antioxidant and free-radical-scavenging activity
5. Easy to add to your diet
Flaked or shaved, coconut adds a nice flavor to savory dishes. Its meaty texture and flavor work well in curries, fish stews, rice dishes, or even on breaded shrimp. Additionally, coconut oil is a delicious heat-stable fat that can be used in baking, sautéing, or roasting.
