Coconut: health properties and contraindications

Most people living north of the Equator perceive coconut as something incomprehensible and exotic. But this overseas "hard nut" has a lot of unique properties. Its snow-white flesh and transparent milk can fully meet the human body's needs for nutrients, including vitamins. But in addition to a whole set of health benefits, coconut is distinguished by its pleasant taste. In other words, this mysterious fruit is quite capable to be simultaneously a pharmacy, an autonomous power plant, a rich storehouse and even a beauty salon. Therefore, it is worth getting acquainted with this amazing gift of the subtropics and, so to speak, at close range to assess its advantages and disadvantages, which, although in a small amount, but also exist.

What is coconut and where does it grow

Coconut palms are heat-loving members of the plant world. They grow in the coastal zone in the Malaysian archipelago, in India, on the island of Sri Lanka, because they prefer sandy soils. The ripening period of these crops lasts for a whole year. Contrary to the popular belief that coconut is a nut, from the scientific point of view it is a stone fruit. This unique plant product has a very complex structure:

1. The outer shell of the coconut, covered with stiff fibers resembling hair (coir), is called the exocarp.
2. The inner part (endocarp) consists of a hard shell and a seed.

The flesh of the coconut fruit is distinguished by its dazzling white hue. This rather dense substance has excellent taste characteristics. The juice of the nut or endosperm has a sweetish flavor. In the initial stages of fruit ripening, the endosperm is as crystal clear and fluid as water. But as the fruit matures, the liquid becomes cloudy and thick, resembling an oily emulsion. This is coconut milk, which is highly valued in cosmetology, medicine and other fields.

Most of the nutrients are concentrated in the flesh of the coconut. Therefore, it is this part of the fruit is of greatest value. Today, the coconut (pulp) is extracted on an industrial scale, using advanced technology in the production process. The pulp, like the juice, is very much in demand in the pharmaceutical industry, cooking, and other industries.

What is the difference between a green coconut and a brown coconut?

In the opinion of the inhabitants of Russian regions, coconut is a fruit with a surprisingly tough surface of brown color. Exemplars with this coloring appear on the shelves of our stores. Therefore, when it comes to green coconuts, everyone assumes that this is a separate type of fruit. In reality, coconuts have different shades of outer shell (exocarp) at different periods of maturity. In other words, young, not yet fully ripe fruits have a greenish color. The value of immature coconuts is that their white core and sweet syrup are most useful during this period.

The green coconuts are harvested six months after the coconut palm blossoms. But part of the crop remains on the trees, which means that for another 5-6 months the fruit reaches full maturity. By the time they are removed, such coconuts turn brown. Their juice has a tart taste reminiscent of kvass. The cost of overripe specimens is much lower than that of green fruits.

When choosing a fruit, you should always consider this point. For example, when the interest is in coconut water, which is rich in nutrients, you should buy green coconuts. If, however, for culinary or other purposes you need the pulp of the tropical fruit, then go for a nut with a dark brown rind.

Thus, from all of the above we can conclude that the difference in color shades depends on the time of removal of the fruit.

Composition and calories

The coconut is a fruit that is unique in every way. Its internal content is no less impressive than its external characteristics. To make sure of this, it is enough to list the main components of the composition:

1. Lauric acid, which is found in huge quantities, strengthens the body's defenses.
2. Lipids help to improve the metabolic process, which helps to effectively fight excess weight.
3. Folic acid regulates the circulatory system.
4. Potassium and magnesium are necessary for normal heart function.
5. Nicotinic and pantothenic acids are actively involved in metabolic processes.
6. Iodine provides trouble-free operation of the endocrine system.
7. Selenium has antioxidant properties, it cleanses the body of free radicals.
8. Fiber stimulates digestion.
9. Essential components inhibit the aging process, improve skin and hair.
10. Vitamins nourish tissues and take an active part in the synthesis of many essential elements.

All this nutrient complex when used rationally, the fruit of the coconut tree can significantly improve overall health and increase the body's resistance to various negative factors.

But if you want to supplement your diet with such a useful product, keep in mind that the caloric value of 100 grams:

• Fresh coconut is 362 kcal;
• dried pulp - 660 kcal.

Coconut belongs to the high-fat products: one third of the pulp (34 g out of 100) is fat.

Coconut water alone has a minimum caloric value of 16 kcal/100 g. As a result of numerous studies, scientists have found that the juice of unripe coconut has a similar composition to that of human blood. It is really a nutritious liquid that contains valuable enzymes. That is why professional athletes prefer to drink natural coconut water rather than popular artificial supplements. However, coconut water loses its useful qualities very quickly. That's why you should drink it immediately after opening the nut shell.

What is useful about coconut?

Such a rich composition as coconut is an irreplaceable source of vital energy. But, in addition to a guaranteed supply of energy resources, the unique fruit has an impressive list of useful properties. And all parts of the product without exception exhibit these qualities. For example, the high percentage of protein in the pulp helps athletes gain muscle mass, and the presence of aphrodisiacs increases sex drive in both sexes.

That's why it is worth to consider in details the influence of the components of the exotic fruit on people depending on their sex, age and features of the physiological state. So, what is the usefulness of the coconut?

For women

It is hard to find a natural product that has as powerful an effect on the female body as coconut. If its presence in the diet is constant, a woman of reproductive age will not have problems with her menstrual cycle. Many doctors even advise couples who are planning to conceive a baby to eat coconut pulp or drink nutritional milk.

For mature ladies, coconut can help alleviate menopausal problems. The unique rejuvenating properties of this amazing product should not be forgotten. If it is added to home cosmetics, you can significantly improve the condition of hair, nails, return the skin of the face elasticity and fresh appearance. In addition to these features, the components of the composition of coconut stimulate wound healing, increase the body's resistance to infections and even cancer.

For men

The "strong nut" can also provide an invaluable service to the health of the representatives of the stronger half of mankind: to increase the order of sexual ability. In fact, in the list of useful components of the composition there are aphrodisiacs, and these substances are known to improve the potency.

The ingredients of the fruit of the coconut palm can be used to prepare home remedies for urological diseases, prostatitis, reproductive system disorders in men.

As noted above, for athletes, this unique fruit will help to compensate for energy losses during intensive workouts and increase muscle mass. The only case where caution should be exercised is obesity. In case of individual intolerance to the constituent elements, the product should not be consumed at all in any form.

When pregnant

Future mothers should also supplement their diet with such a useful product as coconut. Of course, this is possible only if a woman has no allergic predisposition to the exotic fruit. However, it is better for ladies in an interesting position to drink natural milk. The recommended dose is 1 glass every day. If financial opportunities allow for such a food excess, a tropical diet will improve the health of the mother and the future baby. Such properties should also be listed:

1. Coconut water is useful for toxicosis.
2. The sweet pulp of the fruit relieves heartburn and urges to vomit.
3. Constipation is the main problem that most expectant mothers face. Thanks to the presence of the overseas fruit in the diet of a pregnant woman, it is possible to resolve these problems and to adjust the stool.

I would also like to add that if the mother adheres to such a diet, the fetus will develop well, the child will have excellent vision and good mental abilities.

When breastfeeding

Since the food basket of a nursing mother on special account, it should not contain harmful and spoiled goods. Of course, coconuts will be of great benefit to the woman during lactation, as well as the future baby, if the fruit has no signs of rot and mold. Otherwise, there are no restrictions with moderate consumption of this product. Breastfeeding mothers, as well as pregnant women, it is useful to drink small portions of coconut milk. As part of this nutritious liquid has lauric acid, which enhances lactation. In combination with mineral elements and vitamins, this component:

• will improve metabolism;
• strengthen the immune system;
• increase physical activity;
• help normalize sleep;
• Strengthen intellectual activity.

It is clear that all the above effects will be observed in both the mother and the baby. But if your child shows the slightest sign of allergies or digestive disorders, you must immediately give up tropical products.

For children

Children of all ages love sweets, flavored with coconut. But parents should know that such confectionery delights are allowed only after the child is 2 years old. After all, children's body is extremely sensitive to all unfamiliar products, and especially to foreign gifts.

Kids, prone to allergic reactions, it is better to postpone acquaintance with the coconut until the age of three. Introduce such products in the diet should be careful, always respecting the allowable portion. The useful complex of elements contained in the pulp and juice of the tropical fruit will help:

• In the proper formation of the bone skeleton;
• in the intellectual development of the baby;
• To keep healthy teeth;
• prevent the development of anemia;
• Strengthen children's immunity.

In addition to these clearly positive qualities, coconut oil, when applied externally, will protect your baby's sensitive skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays. The oil is an ideal remedy against diaper rash. In short, coconut, even in minimal quantities, can be an alternative to pharmacy vitamin complexes.

Can I eat coconut while losing weight?

Coconut is one of those products, the properties of which sometimes seem paradoxical. Having a high caloric value, it is nevertheless, when used properly, helps to normalize weight. True, with such a complex product should not experiment with those suffering from any degree of obesity.

But if annoyed by a few extra pounds, then the exotic nut, combined with regular exercise, will help to achieve good results in the process of correction of the figure. It is best to use coconut milk for weight loss, as this product has minimal fat and carbohydrate content.

The principle of weight loss with coconut is based on the abilities of two acids: lauric acid and dodecanoic acid. Both components:

• actively burn fat reserves;
• accelerate metabolism;
• normalize digestive processes;
• reduce feelings of hunger.

The high caloric content of exotics contributes to rapid satiety, but the presence of fiber prevents gaining excess weight. This means that vegetable fats entering the body are not deposited in the form of fat reserves, but are converted into energy.

There are many effective diets that can help you regain an attractive slim figure. But it is better to choose such weight loss programs not on your own, but on the recommendation of a nutritionist or endocrinologist. The fact is that immoderate consumption of tropical fruit can disrupt heart function and provoke other serious pathologies.

Coconut in medicine

Medics never give up on the natural gifts that can provide significant support in the treatment of various diseases. Therefore, modern medicine almost always includes herbal elements in addition to the basic set of therapies. The fruit of the coconut tree is no exception. It is often recommended by endocrinologists to patients with pathologies of the thyroid gland, coronary heart disease, disorders of hematopoiesis. Antiviral properties of the product are used for colds and sore throats. Let us mention only some of the pathologies, during which this unusual fruit can alleviate.

For diabetes

It would seem that the high glycemic index of coconut completely excludes the possibility of its use in diabetes. But in small doses for the second type of diabetes occasionally include in the menu such a valuable product is possible. True, in this case it is necessary to control the sugar level. Patients with the first type of diabetes is better to consult with a doctor about the advisability of its inclusion in the diet.

Important: The glycemic index of coconut is 45 units.

In pancreatitis

In a prolonged course of chronic pancreatitis, eating coconut fresh is allowed. But, since the healing milk stimulates the work of the pancreas, portions should be moderate. The complex of elements present in the composition of the fruit will benefit the affected organ and the whole body.

At an exacerbation of the chronic process, as well as in the acute form of pancreatitis, the use of such plant products is strictly prohibited.

In case of gastritis

Coconut milk can be a great alternative to the product obtained from the cow, if the patient with gastritis can not tolerate dairy products in any form. Since coconut contains a large amount of dietary fiber, such a dietary supplement will help to normalize digestion and restore intestinal microflora. With peptic ulcer is also allowed to use the exotic fruit, but in small quantities.

When constipation

When there are serious problems with stool regularity, it is better to use the juice of overripe coconut fruit. It is an excellent natural laxative. The coarse fibers of the pulp will have a favorable effect on the intestinal system, increase its peristalsis, and help eliminate constipation. Coconut helps with excessive gas and bloating.

With gout

Since gout refers to the number of pathologies with complex cause-and-effect relationships, the diet in this disease has many restrictions. But coconut with its pronounced antioxidant abilities can enrich the menu of such patients. In addition, coconut is a source of vegetable fat, which is extremely useful for this disease.

We must not forget that with gout the metabolism suffers, and this disorder contributes to the accumulation of uric acid. The tropical nut has elements that normalize metabolic processes.

Coconut in cosmetology

Natural fatty acids are the main value of coconut, which allowed it to consolidate its reputation as the best skin moisturizer. This oil is especially useful for persons with very sensitive, as well as fading skin with coarsened areas. The uniqueness of this kind of oil is that this product works perfectly in the décolleté area, around the eyes, in the bust area. The product has a number of worthy qualities:

• is a natural antiseptic;
• Effectively fights wrinkles and other age-related changes;
• Helps remove corns on the feet;
• Heals burns well;
• Softens skin after sunbathing;
• restores elasticity and firmness;
• Helps prevent facial pigmentation;
• Helps in the treatment of psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema.

Having at its disposal this valuable product, any woman can quickly prepare a cosmetic.

For the face

Coconut oil is perfectly absorbed by the skin, activating the action of all components of the composition. There are many options for therapeutic and nourishing masks based on this unique product. Here is an example of a mask for aging skin:

1. Take coconut oil and blue clay in equal parts, mix, add 3 drops of orange essential oil. Then apply this mixture for a quarter of an hour on the face.
2. And this mask is suitable for any skin type. Melt the coconut oil first, then mix it with rice flour in a 1:4 ratio. To make the mass take on the consistency of thick sour cream, it is necessary to add green tea.
3. Coconut milk can be wiped over the eyelids and the area around the eyes before going to bed - it will moisturize the skin and serve as an excellent prevention of premature wrinkles.

For your hair

If you nourish your hair with coconut oil regularly, it will stop losing protein. This is because the oil base envelops each individual hair, thereby protecting it from all types of damage, including the effects of dyes, curling irons, and irons.

No special skills are required to perform the cosmetic procedure. You just need to melt a small amount of oil in the palms of your hands and then apply it to your hair. It is not recommended to apply coconut oil on the scalp, because it can cause rashes and irritation. It is desirable to put a bag over the head to create a steam effect - the oil will work better. The owners of oily hair should not use coconut oil, because this too oily product will only make the problem worse.

For cosmetic purposes, coconut oil is used in massage salons: it is used to combat cellulite.

Using Coconut in Cooking

Almost everyone is familiar with the taste of the tropical nut. After all, this useful product in the form of shavings is used to decorate confectionery products, it is added to chocolate, candy, pastries. In addition, in many cuisines of the world coconut pulp is a mandatory component of various appetizers and second courses.

Coconut is used for making drinks and all kinds of desserts, while the nutritious milk is used to prepare soups. The flesh of the overseas fruit in combination with diet varieties of rabbit and chicken is especially appreciated by gourmets who know a lot about food.

Useful properties of coconut water

Interestingly, in countries where coconut palms grow, this fruit is considered a gift from the gods. In India, seriously ill patients are necessarily given to drink coconut water. It is believed that such therapy helps patients recover quickly. And this statement is confirmed by the results of many scientific studies, because coconut water perfectly quenches thirst and improves the metabolism.

The low calorie content of the drink attracts supporters of healthy eating and those who want to lose weight beauties. It was already noted above that coconut water is very close in composition to human blood plasma. Therefore, young coconuts may well become "universal donors" for humans.

Coconut milk: benefits and harms

During the processing of coconut pulp is another valuable product - milk. This nutrient substance is widely used in cosmetology, medicine, confectionery production. The product has a number of useful properties:

• diuretic;
• analgesic;
• antioxidant;
• Immunomodulatory.

Coconut milk regulates digestive processes, stimulates metabolism. The product helps to lose extra pounds and strengthen the teeth. Milk is included in many cosmetic skin care products.

But despite such an impressive list of useful qualities, inordinate consumption of the product can provoke diarrhea and even contribute to weight gain. Therefore, people who have weak intestinal peristalsis, it is better to refuse such a treat.

Coconut oil: benefits and uses

Coconut oil is most in demand in cosmetology and medicine. This product with unique properties well moisturizes and protects the skin and hair. Coconut oil is used as a base in the production of anti-aging cosmetics. The valuable product has a beneficial effect on the nervous system: it helps to relax and calm down.

The benefits and harms of coconut sugar

Sugar derived from the pulp of coconut is considered the best natural sweetener. It is slowly digested by the body, and therefore has no effect on the pancreas. The product contains glutamine and inulin, components which are very healthy. This undoubtedly useful product should be used in moderation, so as not to get the opposite result in the form of allergic manifestations and diabetes.

The benefits of Urbech of coconut pulp

Urbech is a paste obtained from coconut pulp. This extremely useful product is saturated with fatty acids that the human body needs. The natural sugars present in the coconut flesh energize and help get rid of depression. But this is not a complete list of useful properties of urbech. We should also highlight its abilities:

• normalizes cholesterol levels;
• Improves potency in men;
• increases libido in women;
• In diabetes it regulates blood sugar;
• actively fights parasites;
• strengthens the immune system;
• regulates the processes of digestion;
• Establishes the work of the intestines.

Harm and contraindications

From the above description of the main characteristics of the overseas product, it is clear that it has more positive qualities than dangerous to health properties. If we always stick to a reasonable measure, then the coconut will become an indispensable source of energy and nutrients.

The list of contraindications for its consumption has only two points:

• Individual intolerance;
• obesity.

In other cases, you can enjoy the taste of this amazing fruit.

Can you be allergic to coconut

Allergic reactions to coconut are registered very rarely and only in case of individual intolerance. This type of illness is manifested by a complex of symptoms:

• redness and itching on the skin;
• swelling;
• nausea, which leads to intense vomiting;
• a rash on the body.

At the first signs of allergy you must seek medical attention immediately, so that the allergic reaction does not transform into anaphylactic shock. It is especially important to do this when side effects occur in children.

How to choose a ripe coconut at the store

To reduce the health risks, which are usually associated with the consumption of substandard products, when choosing a coconut you need to:

1. Ask about the delivery date of the batch of produce.
2. Shake the fruit. If a splash can be heard, the nut is ripe. Otherwise, the absence of noise will mean that the liquid has either leaked due to damage during transportation, or has evaporated due to long storage.
3. Estimate the weight by taking the fruit in your hand. A quality coconut will still feel heavy, even if it is small.
4. Visually inspect the coconut. Cracks, dents and other damage may cause rot and spoilage.
5. A good quality nut should be dry.

How and where to store coconut

All tropical products cannot be stored for long periods of time.

1. A nut without external defects can be stored for no more than a month, and an opened coconut - only 2-3 days.
2. Coconut milk is recommended to use immediately.
3. The pulp of the fruit retains its qualities for 7 days. But it should always be covered with water.
4. The longest coconut can be stored - up to a year. It is recommended to put it in storage in a dry place in a tightly closed container.

How to open the coconut at home

To open an unyielding nut on your own, it is necessary to have strength and skill. Two knives of different sizes will be required for the operation:

1. A small knife should make a hole in the weakest place of the fruit.
2. Then carefully pour out the milk, rotating the coconut for a couple of minutes and tapping with the flat part of the blade of the big knife.
3. When a characteristic crack will be heard and a crack will appear, you can try to open the nut completely, dividing it into two parts.

How and with what you eat coconut

Coconut perfectly harmonizes in taste with other tropical fruits, strawberries, citrus fruits. It is often used to make smoothies and other desserts.

The combination of coconut and spices is interesting, and the composition with chocolate and caramel is the basis for making various culinary masterpieces. The fresh flesh of the fruit is good to add to salads, soups and second courses.

Unique flavor notes are revealed when combining coconut with seafood. But you will get quite a tasty dish if you add coconut to porridge, stewed potatoes or peppers.

How to make coconut shavings

To get coconut shavings, you have to open the nut in the way described above, then extract the juice from it, and then use improvised means to separate the pulp. This is a very complicated process that requires certain skills. So you should not be in a hurry: you should separate the pulp slowly, you can do it in small pieces.

By the way, if the fruit is fresh, the procedure will not take long. When the tender flesh is completely separated, it should be rinsed well with water. Then, using a blender or a regular grater shred the core of the fruit, and the resulting shavings put in the oven and at a temperature of 110 degrees to dry for 10 minutes. The shavings should darken a little. After cooling the resulting component should be placed in a glass dish with a sealable lid. Such a product of own preparation can be stored for three months.

Can we give coconut to animals?

This question can only be answered positively. Coconut is very useful for pets.

1. It is an excellent remedy for fleas and parasites.
2. The antibacterial properties of the composition will help prevent the development of infection and the spread of mycosis.
3. With the regular presence of coconut in the diet of a cat or dog, the pet's coat will look great and the digestive system will work well.

In addition, coconut eliminates bad odor from the mouth and is an excellent preventative against ticks.

Interesting facts about coconut

1. Just a couple of decades ago, coconut was on the list of health hazards. This was mainly due to the product's ability to raise cholesterol, which threatens to clog the main vessels. But today, based on a number of scientific studies, the myths about the product's harm have been shattered.
2. It is known that during the Second World War coconut water was used as a blood substitute in some regions of the world in critical situations.
3. Coconut in the hands of folk craftsmen can turn into a real work of art. For example, from its fibers make cute mats, and from the shell you can make original souvenir products and utensils.

Coconut photo