Benefits Of Coconut

 

Coconut is an edible fruit of the coconut palm tree Cocos nucifera a tree of the palm family Aceraceae.  Coconuts most likely originated somewhere in Indo- Malaya and are considered the most important crops of the tropics. The origins of the coconut are not known as of today as many claim the coconut is native to Southwest Asia, Philippines, Indonesia, including Astillero were likely to be places of its origin. Historically coconuts were first domesticated by the Austronesian people in Island, Southwest Asia and were spread during the Neolithic stone age via seaborn migrations as far east as the Pacific Islands as far west as the Madagascar and the Comoros.  The coconut tree provides food, cosmetics, fuel, folk medicine, building materials and other essential uses. The inner flash of the mature seed as well as the coconut milk is extracted from the shell for use as as dietary sources for many people living in the tropics and subtropical areas.

Today coconut products are readily available across the globe sold as coconut milks fresh and caned, coconut water, coconut flakes, coconut oils, coconut creams, soaps and coconut infused scents of the tropics.  The demand for coconut derived products is anticipated to increase due to the rise in consumer concerns about the use of controversial dairy based beverages, food products and the adoption of vegan diets. In recent years the coconut has been credited for its health benefits often consumed as a nutritious fruit.  According to The National Library Of Medicine the coconut palm is an important crop for communities globally both as a food source as well as fiber, timber and medicine. It contains several bioactive compounds, particularly extra virgin coconut oil.  Many of its health benefits have been overlooked due to its fatty acid composition. One tablespoon of coconut oil contains 50 calories, 5.2 grams saturated fat. 1-gram carbs, 0.54 grams protein.

A diet high in saturated fatty acids has been connected to an increase risk of CVD and other major lifestyle diseases Therefore historically public health recommendations has focused on messages to the public to decrease the consumption of saturated fatty acids including coconut.  There is significant data to support differentiating different food sources of saturated fats to clarify the unique nutrients of each source and the associated health impact. Avoid coconut mistakes consuming coconut oil in moderation while enjoying a healthy diet plan consuming fats and oils of any kind.  Possible benefits of consuming coconut oil include reducing stress, controlling blood sugar, increasing good cholesterol however more research into the effects of regular coconut oil use is necessary. Coconut flesh is high in fat and can be dried, eaten fresh or processed into coconut milk or coconut oil.  The liquid of the nut is called coconut water often used in beverages as a solution for treating dehydration consumed as a refreshing beverage of choice.

Coconut water contains various nutrients high in electrolytes potassium, vitamin C. Vita pure Coconut water has the taste of the tropics low in calories helps keep your body properly hydrated for everyday on the go refreshment.

Cheers!

Patricia Lynn

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