If you’ve ever tasted the meat of a fresh coconut, you know how sweet and delicious this tropical seed can taste. Although many people enjoy the taste of fresh coconut, few are aware of the health benefits of eating coconut. In fact, some think of coconut meat as being unhealthy, possibly associating it with being a filling for candy or an ingredient in decadent dessert treats. The good news is when enjoyed in moderation; coconut can be appreciated not only for its taste, but for its nutritional properties as well. What are the health benefits of eating coconut?
Health benefits of eating coconut: It may help to reduce abdominal obesity
Although the oil from the coconut is high in saturated fat, it’s rich in a certain type of fat known as medium chain triglycerides. Studies have shown that supplementing the diet with medium chain triglycerides such as those found in coconut oil, not only reduces appetite, but may also help to eliminate abdominal obesity. It appears that medium chain triglycerides are more likely to be burned off and as fuel rather than being stored as fat. Plus, they may boost the metabolism making it easier to lose those excess pounds.
Health benefits of eating coconut: A heart healthy choice for cooking?
While there was concern that the saturated fat found in coconut oil might raise levels of LDL cholesterol, this doesn’t appear to be the case. Although studies in the 1980’s showed that coconut oil increased cholesterol; these studies used hydrogenated coconut oil which contained trans fats, fats that are known to cause heart disease. Animal studies suggest that coconut oil actually helps to lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, possibly because of its high concentration of an amino acid known as L-arginine. More recent studies suggest that coconut oil may be protective against heart disease and may favorably affect cholesterol profiles, although the verdict is still out on this. Nevertheless, many experts believe that coconut oil is a healthy alternative to other cooking oils.
Health benefits of eating coconut: It may protect against bacterial and viral infections
Two components of the coconut, lauric acid and monolaurin have the ability to kill bacteria and viruses both in the laboratory and in mice. Monolaurin has even been shown to stop the growth of the HIV virus. Studies are ongoing as to what role coconut oil might play in treating HIV patients. Interestingly, lauric acid is also found in mother’s milk and helps to stimulate the newborn’s immune system to fight off infection. It’s though that it may also help to promote better immune function in adults.
Health benefits of eating coconut: Coconut water has benefits too
The water found in the interior of the coconut has health benefits too. Not only is it almost fat-free, it’s also a good source of important electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. Coconut water is considered to be isotonic meaning it has a similar electrolyte composition as fluids naturally found in the blood stream, making it a good way to rehydrate after exercise. Because of this, coconut water is found in many popular sports drinks.
The next time you crack open a fresh coconut, enjoy the taste, but also remember the health benefits you’re getting. Enjoy!
