Often referred to as a miracle fruit, coconut has become a superfood in today’s lifestyle. The white tender fleshy part inside of the coconut is called coconut meat which has gained reputation as one of the healthiest food for a fit and well balanced lifestyle. It can be eaten fresh or dried, it is rich in fibre and offers number of benefits. The kernel of the fruit is commonly also called “copra”. As the coconut ripens with time, the water solidifies and becomes the white fleshy meat.
Along with being super tasty it has many health benefits. Not just coconut water but coconut meat too has incredible health benefits. It is one the healthiest fruit you can add to your diet. Apart from being delicious here are 7 amazing health benefits that coconut meat has.
Full Of Nutrition
Coconut meat provides many nutrients but mainly it is rich in manganese which is very prominent in maintaining healthy bones and it helps in improving functions of many enzymes in the body and support metabolism of sugars in the body, this also keeps free radicals in check. Coconut meat Is a good source of vitamin C, it also contains dietary fibres, magnesium, potassium and sodium. Copper present in coconut meat helps in metabolic process and decreases cardiovascular conditions and frequency of infections. The meat of the fruit also contains iron which is beneficial for the body.
Rich In Antioxidants
Coconut meat contains lots of antioxidants and manganese which help in reducing inflammation, and this may boost the immune system. It also has antiviral, antifungal and tumour supressing properties. Antioxidants in coconut meat contain phenolic compounds that may help in protecting cells from oxidative damage. The meat of the fruit contains phenolic compounds like Gallic acid, Caffeic acid, Salicylic acid, p-coumaric acid. Polyphenols in coconut meat prevent oxidation of bad cholesterol which increases the risk of heart disease by blocking the arteries.
Filled With Electrolytes
Eating coconut meat helps in replenishing electrolytes in your body, which is very essential for the proper functioning of the brain, heart, muscles and nerves. Adequate hydration and pH levels are maintained by these electrolytes. We get electrolytes like sodium, magnesium, calcium, potassium from coconut meat. It also contains micronutrients like zinc and selenium that help in supporting the body’s natural antioxidant defence system.
Incredible Source Of Good Fat
Coconut meat is a delicious and incredible source of good fat and consuming good fats is generally essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Good fats are also a part of well balanced diet. When we eat coconut meat, it provides energy to our liver and it is better able to control the insulin levels. Consuming coconut meat as a part of your daily diet boosts metabolism and also helps you in feeling fuller for a longer period of time which in turn results in allowing you to consume fewer calories in all.
Aids Weight Loss
Coconut meat may aid weight loss as some studies suggested that MCT which is medium chain triglycerides in coconut may promote feeling of fullness and fat burning along with calorie burning, all of which support weight loss. Coconut meat has high fibre content which boosts fullness and that prevents overeating which is helpful in weight loss. Coconut meat is also a fixture of keto diet as it has fat and fibre with a moderate number of carbs and proteins. As eating coconut meat promotes high metabolic rate, the more fat is burn.
Aids Digestive Health
Coconut meat helps in keeping your digestive system healthy as it is high in fibre which helps in bulking up your stool and also supports bowel regularity. Coconut meat is high in fat and helps the body to absorb fat soluble nutrients easily, also including vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin D, E and K. Coconut meat contains MCTS which strengthen the gut bacteria which helps in protecting against inflammation and conditions like metabolic syndrome.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar
This superfood alters the gut bacteria which helps in aiding blood sugar and it may also lower the fasting blood sugar. As the meat of coconut is low on carbohydrates it is useful for people with diabetes as it has a mild impact on blood glucose levels. High manganese, sodium, potassium, vitamin C may help in improving insulin sensitivity.
Side Effects Of Coconut Meat
Coconut meat contains a significant amount of saturated fat which is highly controversial. Studies on healthy adults showed that high saturated fat intake was associated with increased risk of heart diseases. Eating too much coconut meat can increase blood cholesterol levels and can be very harmful to the heart, leading to various cardiovascular diseases like heart attack, stroke and slow or irregular heartbeat.
If not consumed moderately, coconut meat can cause harm to our body and raise blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. It could also contribute to weight gain as eating too much coconut meat would mean loading your body with too many calories.
If you are someone who is allergic to tree nuts in general like walnut, almonds, cashews, pistachios etc. It is advisable to not consume coconut meat as well because you may get allergic reactions to coconut too as coconut is not at all suitable for individuals who are allergic to tree nuts.
Can It Be Consumed During Pregnancy?
Coconut meat has multiple benefits for pregnancy, as they contain healthy fats which are much needed during pregnancy. Coconut milk also helps for milk production as the fruit contains lauric acid which helps in lactation and is helpful in milk production.
Consuming coconut meat during pregnancy can help in replacing lost electrolytes which happens due to morning sickness. It also soothes acid reflux, reduces blood pressure. Coconut meat also contains some nutrients which are considered helpful for foetal development.
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28506118/
