Have you heard of the health benefits of coconut? In addition to being very tasty, this fruit typical of tropical regions is successful in several types of sweet and savory recipes and still offers a number of advantages for the body. Because it is very versatile, coconut can be consumed in many ways, including pulp, water, milk, and flour, which expands the possibilities of enjoying its properties on a daily basis. Discover the benefits that this delicious fruit brings to your health:
1. Coconut water is excellent for hydrating the body and replacing electrolytes
Composed of 93% water and 7% carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, coconut water is a very efficient drink for replacing fluids and salts lost through sweat or in cases of diarrhea. Among its minerals, potassium, calcium, and magnesium are highlighted, which are present in higher quantities than industrialized isotonic. Thus, coconut water is more efficient in electrolytic replacement - and without the disadvantage of offering extra doses of sodium and refined sugar.
2. Fighting aging and various diseases
Due to the presence of B vitamins and vitamin C, coconut helps to fight the damage caused by free radicals, preserving the genetic material of the cells. Thus, both coconut water and fruit pulp have an antioxidant function. As a result, their consumption helps the body fight aging and prevent degenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, and some types of cancer - conditions that are favored by oxidative stress caused by the action of free radicals.
3. Feeling of satiety
The pulp of the mature coconut is very rich in nutrients such as fiber and good fats, which help to prolong the feeling of satiety after a meal and prevent the person from “snacking” on unhealthy snacks. Thus, the consumption of this fruit can even contribute to weight loss processes.
For this, however, it is necessary to include it in the diet in moderation, since a 100-gram portion of the dried pulp has 390 calories.
4. Improved bowel function
The high fiber content present in the coconut pulp contributes to the increase of the fecal cake, which stimulates the peristaltic movements that lead the feces until its elimination. Thus, the inclusion of fruit on the menu helps to stimulate the proper functioning of the intestine, facilitating the elimination of waste.
5. Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer
The oil extracted from coconut is used in several body moisturizers and hair masks because it is able to strengthen the protective barrier of the skin and hair, preventing the loss of water molecules. Thus, this ingredient has a high wetting power and helps keep skin, nails, and hair healthy and hydrated when used in products such as soaps, shampoos, creams, and ointments. However, it is worth remembering that coconut oil in high doses can clog pores and aggravate acne, so it is best to opt for reliable products and recommended by the dermatologist.
6. Coconut flour is rich in fiber
Because it has high fiber content, coconut flour contributes to the proper functioning of the intestine and reduces the absorption of sugar and fats from the diet, helping to prevent diseases such as constipation, diabetes, and high cholesterol. In addition, its fibers have a high capacity to absorb water, so that they expand and form a gel when they reach the stomach, which contributes to satiety.
7. Coconut milk is nutritious and contains no lactose
Source of good fats, B vitamins, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and other minerals, coconut milk has a creamy texture and a very rich flavor so that it can be used in various sweet dishes and savory, including cakes, pies, etc.
In addition, like all milk of vegetable origin, coconut milk does not contain lactose, constituting a safe option for those suffering from intolerance or allergy to this sugar. Now that you know the health benefits of coconut, take advantage of the greater availability of this fruit in the hottest seasons of the year to include it in your diet. She is delicious and still does well!