The popularity of coconut – whether in the form of oil, milk, water or other products – has soared in recent years due to the fruit’s impressive array of health benefits. Moderate amounts of this delicious food can help with everything from weight control to fighting off colds and other viruses. Find out more about coconut health benefits below, as well as how to incorporate this versatile fruit into your daily diet.
The benefits of coconut oil
Controlling blood sugar
Coconut may help make blood sugar control easier for people with diabetes by reducing insulin resistance, thereby allowing insulin to work better.
Acting as an antioxidant and moisturizer
Coconut oil acts as an antioxidant in your body, which guards against damage to healthy tissues. When applied to your skin and hair, it’s an excellent moisturizer and adds plenty of protective vitamin E.
Improving thyroid function
Coconut can help boost thyroid function, which may increase your metabolism and energy.
Boosting immunity
Did you know coconut contains lauric and caprylic acid? This duo combine their powers to fight off viruses, bacteria and yeast overgrowth.
Reducing cholesterol
Not only does coconut oil help boost your body’s levels of “good” HDL cholesterol,it seems to be more proficient than other types of fats at doing so!
Keeping weight under control
Coconut contains medium chain triglycerides, which are healthy fats that prompt your body to more efficiently burn energy. In one study, women who consumed around two tablespoons of coconut oil a day for 12 weeks didn’t gain any weight and actually reduced their stubborn abdominal fat.
Adding more coconut to your diet
Shape magazine recommends the following ways to add more coconut to your diet:
Coconut milk
This type of milk doesn’t have as much protein or calcium as cow or soy milk, so don’t rely on it for these nutrients. That said, you can switch things up by adding unsweetened coconut milk to coffee, cereal or smoothies.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil can be used instead of butter in baking, as well as when you’re pan-searing food.
For more information about coconut health benefits and how you can incorporate more of this food into your diet, contact BMI of Texas.