Coconut: useful properties and contraindications

What is coconut, knows if not every first, then every second person. The pulp of this amazing nut has long been used not only as an independent food product, but also as a basis for the preparation of other raw materials, including coconut shavings. It is produced by grinding and then drying the coconut pulp and is a white granulated grain. It has a wonderful, mild flavor and many useful properties, which allows you to use it for the preparation of many culinary dishes, including salads, meats, baked goods, side dishes.

Types and varieties of coconut chips

Despite the widespread distribution of this product, few people know that not all shredded coconut pulp is equally useful. There are several varieties of coconut chips, each of which has its own characteristics and distinctive features that you should pay attention to. This is especially important if the purpose of buying this product is not only gastronomic pleasure, but also the maximum benefit that will appear after prolonged consumption.

Experts divide coconut into several varieties:

1. Fine. This type of coconut chips is considered the most useful, because in the process of its production the maximum amount of useful substances contained in coconut is preserved. However, this is not its only difference from other varieties. When making the Fine grade, the coconut flesh is ground very finely, which allows the maximum amount of fat and a pleasant coconut flavor to be preserved.
2. Medium. The Medium variety contains fewer nutrients than the Fine variety. This is easily explained by the fact that during its preparation, the pulp of the coconut is not grinded as much.
3. Coarse. This type of coconut is considered the least useful because during its preparation, the pulp is grinded very coarsely.

Composition and calories

Experts agree that coconut shavings, made in accordance with all regulations, without the use of sweeteners, food colorings and other additives, is one of the most useful products. This opinion is based on the composition of the presented product. The fact that natural coconut chips contain a huge number of useful substances. In 100 g of coconut shavings contains:

• 23.65 g carbohydrates;
• 64.53 grams of fat;
• 6.88 g of protein;
• 3 g water;
• 1.94 g ash;
• 7.4 g sugars;
• 16.3 g fiber.

Many of the useful properties of coconut can be explained by the large amount of vitamins in this product. In its 100 g is present:

• 0.4 mg of vitamin E (3% of daily intake);
• 9 mcg of vitamin B9 (2.3% of daily intake);
• 0.3 mcg of vitamin K (0.3% of daily intake);
• 0.3 mg of vitamin B6 (23.1% of daily intake);
• 1.5 mg of ascorbic acid (1.7% of daily intake);
• 0.8 mg of vitamin B5 (16% of the daily intake);
• 0.1 mg of vitamin B1 (5% of daily intake);
• 22.1 mg of vitamin B4 (4.4% of daily intake);
• 0.1 mg of vitamin B2 (7.7% of daily intake);
• 0.6 mg of vitamin B3 (3.8% of daily intake).

In addition to fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins, coconut contains many micro- and macronutrients. In 100 g of the product:

• 26 mg of calcium (2.6% of the daily allowance);
• 18.5 mcg of selenium (33.6% of the daily allowance);
• 3.3 mg of iron (33.2% of the daily allowance);
• 2.7 mg of manganese (119.3% of the daily allowance);
• 90 mg of magnesium (22.5% of the daily allowance);
• 0.8 mg of copper (88.4% of the daily allowance);
• 206 mg of phosphorus (29.4% of the daily allowance);
• 2 mg of zinc (18.3% of the daily allowance);
• 543 mg of potassium (11.6% of the daily allowance);
• 37 mg of sodium (2.8% of the daily allowance).

The caloric value of coconut chips is quite high. In 100 g of this product contains 660 kcal, which is much more than the caloric value of coconut itself and may indicate its high nutritional value.

What are the benefits of coconut?

General benefits

Since the composition of coconut chips is quite rich, experts talk about this product as one of the most useful. With its regular use, not only an improvement in the overall condition of the human body, but also other positive changes are noted:

1. Removal of accumulated slags and toxins. Dietary fiber, which is part of this product, helps to cleanse the body of substances that negatively affect the work of all internal organs and systems.
2. Improvement of the immune system. Due to the saturation of the human body with vitamin C, which can be seen in the composition of coconut chips, and its purification from toxins, there is an increase in immunity. This property is especially important for those people who suffer from frequent colds.
3. Improved well-being with colds and urological diseases. Due to its antioxidant, antibacterial and other properties, this product is able to alleviate the condition of a person suffering from colds, urological diseases, as well as otitis and flu.
4. Removal of harmful cholesterol. Lauric acid, which is present in the coconut chips, contributes to the rapid removal of harmful cholesterol, which in turn helps to significantly reduce the risk of many cardiovascular diseases.
5. Increase physical and mental activity. The substances contained in this product have a beneficial effect on the entire body, increasing physical and mental activity, which is most important for people who lead an active lifestyle.
6. Improved metabolism. Dietary fiber and other substances contained in coconut chips have a beneficial effect on all organs of the gastrointestinal tract, improving metabolism and preventing the development of several diseases.
7. The saturation of the body with vitamins. Vitamins E, K, C and B, coming regularly to the body will help prevent the development of avitaminosis.
8. Increased visual acuity. Vitamin A is known to have a beneficial effect on the organs of vision, helping to prevent the deterioration of its acuity.
9. Increase hemoglobin. The iron content of this product explains its ability to increase hemoglobin, preventing the development of anemia.
10. Improvement of the psycho-emotional state. Magnesium, which can be seen in the chemical composition of this product, can have a positive effect on the central nervous system, which helps to reduce the effects of stress and improve the psycho-emotional state of a person.

Based on the above facts, it is safe to say that coconut shavings should be present in the diet of every person. The only exceptions to this rule are those cases where the consumption of this product can provoke a number of negative reactions.

For women

According to experienced therapists, coconut and its derivatives, including shavings, can have a unique effect on the representative of the beautiful half of humanity. With the regular use of this product, women note an improvement in the condition of their skin. It can not only improve skin color and relieve minor inflammation, but also slow the aging process and improve cell regeneration.

In addition, the systematic consumption of this product will help to significantly reduce the risk of cancer by inhibiting the reproduction of cancer cells and osteoporosis, which women face more often than men. However, this is not all the useful properties of coconut. Experts note that women whose daily diet contains this product are less likely to suffer:

• from urological diseases;
• neuroses;
• depression;
• insomnia;
• avitaminosis;
• abnormalities caused by hormonal disorders;
• obesity.

Considering all these facts, coconut can be called the best product for preserving women's beauty and health.

For men

This product is no less useful and for the representatives of the strong half of mankind. Its introduction into the daily diet will help:

• increase potency;
• reduce the risk of genitourinary diseases;
• Increase physical activity, which is most important for hard working men;
• significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases;
• to balance the hormonal background.

Among other things, this product is recommended for use in men who suffer from excess weight. Due to the ability to speed up metabolic processes, it will help to quickly get rid of extra pounds, without causing harm to the body of the thinning person.

When pregnant

Doctors do not exclude the consumption of coconut during pregnancy, but only if the future mother has not been observed symptoms of individual intolerance to this product. In the absence of allergic reactions, coconut can saturate the body of a pregnant woman with a lot of useful substances that will help:

1. Prevent the development of iron deficiency anemia.
2. Improve the immune system, reducing the risk of colds and many other diseases.
3. Reduce the likelihood of depression, insomnia and other negative manifestations associated with disorders of the central nervous system.

The substances that are contained in this product, can have a beneficial effect on the child. With the systematic consumption of coconut chips reduces the likelihood of congenital diseases, properly formed bone system of the child, reduced to zero the risks of pathologies associated with a lack of vitamins and minerals.

When breastfeeding

This unique product is not prohibited and during breastfeeding. However, in order for its effect on the body of a nursing woman and child to be extremely positive, before its introduction into the daily ration is recommended to consult with the attending pediatrician. Only a qualified specialist will be able to assess the appropriateness of its use and acceptable daily allowance.

For children

Children's doctors recommend that young parents introduce coconut shavings into children's diet no sooner than the child reaches the age of three, and only if there is no individual intolerance to this product. When properly introduced, this natural product will help:

1. Saturate the child's body with vitamins and minerals, which are necessary for proper growth and development.
2. Protect the baby from frequent colds and other diseases, increasing the body's resistance to viruses and other pathogens that attack it.
3. Prevent thinning of tooth enamel and reduce the likelihood of tooth decay.
4. Strengthen bone tissues.
5. Significantly reduce the risks of anemia, the occurrence of which may have a negative impact on the mental activity of the child.

Despite the many useful properties, the use of this product in excessive quantities may have a negative impact on the child's health. Doctors do not recommend giving children more than 100 grams of coconut chips per week. Only in this case, the product will be able to have a beneficial effect on the child's body, without harming him.

When losing weight

Despite the high caloric content, nutritionists recommend including this natural product in the daily menu of those people who want to get rid of extra pounds. Lauric acid and other substances that are contained in the composition of coconut shavings help not only to speed up the metabolism, accelerating weight loss, but also to saturate the body of the slimmer with a lot of energy, which is extremely important during the diet.

No less important is the fact that coconut can have a beneficial effect on the pancreas, the proper functioning of which helps accelerate the burning of fat cells.

In addition, the use of coconut during the diet will not only help to lose weight, but also have a beneficial effect on the body slimming:

1. Will prevent the development of avitaminosis.
2. Improve the function of the gastrointestinal organs.
3. It will remove toxins and other substances that negatively affect the work of the human body.

Each of these facts suggests that shredded coconut pulp is an ideal product that can speed up the process of weight loss without harming human health.

Coconut in medicine

Due to its many beneficial properties, shredded coconut pulp is used as a remedy for the treatment and prevention of many dangerous diseases. For example, physicians recommend introducing this product into the diet of those patients who suffer from some diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including:

• Pathologies of the pancreas, proceeding in a mild form;
• chronic gastritis;
• peptic ulcer.

Plant proteins, fatty acids, mineral salts and vitamins, which are present in the product, will help restore the work of damaged organs and reduce the risk of recurrence of the disease.

However, it is also worth noting the fact that coconut shavings are strictly forbidden to introduce into the daily diet of patients suffering from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in the stage of exacerbation. In this case, its consumption can provoke a deterioration of the general state, the intensification of symptoms and the development of related diseases, which will greatly complicate the treatment.

Doctors note that the therapeutic effect of coconut chips is noticed not only in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. It is recommended to include it in the daily menu of those people who suffer from:

• from severe avitaminosis;
• low hemoglobin;
• CNS disorders;
• diseases of the heart;
• Diseases during which there is a thinning of the walls of blood vessels;
• obesity.

When properly used coconut shavings product exhibits a mild therapeutic effect, and in combination with drugs can speed up the healing process in many diseases.

Coconut application in cosmetology

Grinded coconut pulp is widely used to make homemade cosmetics, which is easily explained by its rich composition. Cosmetic products containing this product help maintain the beauty and health of the skin for many years and stop premature aging.

There are many recipes for facial masks based on coconut, but the most popular and effective are the following options:

1. Honey Coconut Mask. Mix 25-30 g of coconut chips with 10 g of liquid honey and apply the resulting mixture to the face, gently rubbing it into the skin. Leave the mask on for about 20 minutes and then rinse off with cool water, without using soap or other cleansers.
2. Coconut mask with chamomile. Mix 1 tsp. dried chamomile flowers with 1 tsp. coconut flakes and 15g. sour cream. Apply the product on your face, leave it on the skin no longer than 20 minutes, then wash it off with running water at a comfortable temperature.
3. Mask of bananas and coconut. Mix 10 grams of shavings and a little pre-crushed banana in any container that will fit the volume, and apply to the skin of the face. Leave the mask to work for 15-20 minutes and wash off with clean water.

The amazing properties of coconut allow you to use it as a means to improve the condition of the hair. However, in this case the ingredient for preparing care masks is not coconut, but an oil based on it. Prepare coconut oil and experience the amazing effects of one of these masks:

1. Mix 20g of coconut oil with 5g of honey and 3 drops of lavender essential oil. Apply the resulting mixture to the hair, distributing it evenly over its entire length and leave it for 2-3 hours. At the end of the specified time, wash off the mask in the usual way.
2. Regular use of this remedy will help strengthen the hair and return them to their lost shine. Mix one egg yolk with 100 ml of kefir with high fat content and 10 grams of coconut oil, and then massage on the scalp. Sustain the mask for no more than 1 hour, before wrapping your head with a warm towel, and rinse with cool water.
3. This mask will get rid of such a problem as dandruff and prevent its reappearance. In a small amount of warm coconut oil add a drop of rose, rosemary and peppermint oils. Mix all the ingredients and apply the resulting mixture to the entire length of your hair. Leave the mask to act for 1.5 hours, then wash out with your usual shampoo. This product will help to get rid of oily shine of hair and accelerate their growth.

If you use a mask based on coconut derivatives, remember that such cosmetics have a cumulative effect. You can notice it only after several uses.

Harms and contraindications

Despite the fact that coconut contains a huge amount of vitamins, minerals and is considered one of the most useful products, you can not always introduce it in the daily menu. Doctors recommend to completely refuse its consumption in case of individual intolerance of coconut and its derivatives, as well as in acute pancreatitis, gastritis and other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Otherwise, there is a risk of further development of pathology, worsening symptoms and the emergence of related diseases.

In all other cases, coconut and its derivatives are not able to harm human health. The only exception to this rule may be the excessive consumption of the product. Experts do not recommend to consume more than 200 grams of coconut chips a week. In this case, for children the weekly norm of consumption should be reduced to 100 g.

How to choose and store coconut chips

It is impossible not to mention the fact that only a product of high quality can be beneficial for the human body. That is why when choosing coconut chips, you should pay attention to the information that is indicated on the package. When purchasing the product, find out what kind you are buying. Remember that the most useful coconut is Fine. It contains the maximum amount of nutrients and can have an invaluable beneficial effect on the human body.

Do not forget to pay attention to the following nuances:

1. Shelf life. Coconut shavings, the expiration date of which has expired, can not be used as a food product.
2. The integrity of the packaging. Damaged packaging indicates that not only dust, but also pathogenic microorganisms, which can cause dangerous diseases, could have entered the product.
3. Color. The color of the coconut chips should be uniform. The presence of dark or yellow granules should be a reason to refuse to buy.

You should not forget about the storage norms of the product. Coconut chips should be stored in a dark cool place. If it is store-bought and opened, it should be placed in a dry container that can be closed tightly. This will help to prevent the penetration of moisture and foreign odors.

If we talk about storing coconut shavings prepared at home, remember that the shelf life of this product is 12 months from the date of manufacture.

How to make coconut shavings at home

Of course, you can only be sure of the naturalness and quality of the product if it is made by yourself. This also applies to coconut shavings.

To prepare it, you will need only:

• fresh coconut;
• a sharp knife;
• a small bowl;
• grater.

Before you start cooking this amazing product, you should go to the nearest store and choose a quality, ripe coconut. To do this, pay attention to the following nuances when buying:

1. Density. High quality coconut must be firm, without any external defects in the form of cracks or chips.
2. The presence of rot. If even minor signs of rot or traces of mold were found on the surface of the nut, you should refuse such a purchase. Otherwise you are buying a coconut that is not fit for consumption.
3. Dryness of the surface. The surface of the nut should be completely dry. Even small wet spots indicate that the coconut is cracked and has begun to spoil.
4. Presence of liquid. Shake the coconut. If there is liquid splashing inside, it means that you can safely make a purchase.
5. Having chosen a quality coconut, you can proceed to the preparation of coconut shavings. This process consists of several steps:
6. Removing the coconut juice. To do this, make a small hole in the nut with a sharp knife and drain the juice into any container that is suitable in size. Strain the resulting liquid through a sieve and use as you see fit.
7. Extraction of the pulp. To extract the pulp from the nut, you need to cut it all around the circumference, then take out the white contents.
8. Shredding the pulp. The resulting pulp must be grated on a fine grater. To maintain a homogeneous structure, this should be done slowly.

That's all! Coconut shavings are ready to use. Use it immediately after cooking or dry and store it in a clean and dry glass container.

What you can make from coconut: recipes

Due to its taste, coconut can be used to prepare many dishes. There are many recipes that include this natural product, but the most popular are:

Apple pie with coconut shavings

To prepare this dessert, you will need the following ingredients:

• Apples - 2-3 pcs.
• Sugar - 200 gr.
• Flour - 200 gr.
• Coconut shavings - 100 gr.
• Butter - 200 gr.
• Chicken eggs - 4 pcs.
• Fresh lemon juice - 20 ml.
• Sugar powder - 20 gr.
• Baking soda - 7 gr.

Mix the indicated amount of eggs with granulated sugar, add butter, then rub everything with a spoon until a homogeneous mass is obtained. Add to this mixture lemon juice, flour, baking soda, 70g of coconut flakes, 2 grated apples and mix thoroughly.

Grease a form with olive oil or sunflower oil, put the batter into it. Place the sliced apples on top and bake for 30 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius. After the specified time, remove the pie from the oven, sprinkle with the remaining shavings and bake for another 10 minutes.

Coconut Candies

To make coconut shavings candy, you need the following ingredients:

• Condensed milk - 100 ml.
• Butter - 50 gr.
• Almonds or walnuts - 10 pcs.
• Coconut chips - 80 gr.

Mix the soft butter with the specified amount of condensed milk and put on low heat. If it is necessary to add a small quantity of condensed milk, it is necessary to mix it with a large quantity of coconut milk. Once the mixture is homogenous add 80 grams of coconut flakes, stir them, and simmer for another 10 minutes.

Remove the billet from the fire, cool it, and leave it in the fridge for 1.5 hours. After this time you can proceed to making candy. Tear off a small amount of the base and, putting a nut inside it, roll it into a small ball. When all the balls are ready, sprinkle them with coconut shavings. Serve the candy when chilled.

How to make coconut milk out of coconut shavings

Another way to use coconut shavings is to make coconut milk.

For this you will need only a few ingredients:

• Coconut shavings - 250 g.
• Purified water - 500 ml.

Pour the specified amount of water into a container of suitable size and bring it to a boil. Take the water off the fire, add to it coconut flakes and leave to infuse for 6-8 hours, covered with a tight lid. After the specified time grind the resulting mass with an immersion blender. As a result, you should get a homogeneous pulp consistency. Strain it several times with a sieve, then with gauze. The liquid obtained after filtering is coconut milk. This drink will be an excellent substitute for cow's milk and will be ideal for those people who suffer from lactose intolerance.

Interesting facts about coconuts

1. Coconut is not actually a nut. Botanists call this fruit the "stone fruit," and the plant on which it grows is referred to as the stone fruit.
2. Coconut pulp can be the only food you can eat. In this case, a person who will eat only this product, will get all the substances necessary for the normal functioning of the body.
3. Coconut juice and coconut milk are completely different products.
4. The liquid contained in coconut is completely sterile and can be used as a substitute for saline solution.
5. Coconut milk has a similar composition to breast milk.

The useful properties of coconut milk say that this product should be present in everyone's daily diet. The main thing is to remember that it will be useful only if you consume it in moderation.

Photo of coconut shavings