The familiar hairy egg-shaped coconut (which is the seed of the fruit) is found in many tropical countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, India, Philippines and Sri Lanka where people utilize every part of the tree medicinally, including the bark, leaves, flowers, husk, shell, water, oil etc.
Coconut like most nuts is a great source of saturated fat however it’s a medium chain fatty acid which means it’s a fast burning fuel and contrary to popular belief it is not damaging to the heart or the hips, in fact it is a very beneficial fat.
Coconuts are hydrating and an excellent source of minerals. They contain Potassium which is essential for electrolyte balance, Manganese for joint problems especially the knees and Molybdenum needed for enzyme function. They also contain Selenium for protection from cardiovascular disease and tissue degeneration and Zinc for boosting the immune system, moisturizing skin and wound healing.
The most popular coconut product on the market is Coconut oil which consists of Capric acid and Lauric acid.
Capric acid is one of the most beneficial fast metabolizing fats in the world. Consumption of this has shown significant improvements in thyroid function, lowering resting heart rate and increasing fat burn for energy.
Lauric acid is antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal and has been compared to breast milk for its superior ability to destroy parasites. It has been found highly beneficial in eliminating H. Pylori, Candida, Fungal overgrowth, Yeast infections etc.
Here are some easy ways to use Da Coconut
Coconut oil– cook in it, add to smoothies, bake with it, add it to your coffee, remember that this fat burns fast which increases the body’s metabolic rate so don’t be afraid to consume this oil every day. The best type is organic, cold pressed, virgin coconut oil which will be semi solid at room temperature.
Coconut Milk– found easily in cans at most grocery stores is creamy and rich and makes a great replacement for dairy products. It is used for soups, curries, desserts, smoothies and more. Try to purchase cans that are BPA free.
Coconut Water– this energy boosting cloudy liquid that comes from the inside of the young coconut which is green in colour is sweet and therapeutic. Due to its high electrolyte content it is highly beneficial on hot days and for those experiencing dehydration and/or diarrhea. Include it as part of your summer hydration fluids. If you have access to fresh coconut water enjoy it as often as you can, if not most stores have them available all year round. Be sure to only buy sugar free as the coconut is already sweet.
Coconut Aminos– Made from the sap of the Coconut tree Coconut Aminos is a great replacement to Soy Sauce which has undesirable ingredients along with some mystery additives. Aminos is Soy, GMO, MSG and Gluten free, and is usually certified organic. Available at health food stores and online.
These are just a few of the popular Coconut by-products. Others include, Coconut sugar as a refined sugar replacement, Coconut Kefir for probiotic benefits, Shredded Coconut, Coconut flour as a great substitute for gluten free flour, Coconut Butter that’s creamy, delicious and dairy free as is Coconut cream.
And that is not the end of it all, Da Coconut is fantastic for the skin.
Use coconut oil in your face wash, as a carrier oil for essential oils, as a beautiful body oil or mix it in your body cream, as an oral cleanser, as a cuticle oil, deodorant, household scrub, the list is endless.
In our home we have been applying all the suggestions mentioned above for over 3 years and we have only seen improvement in our health, so don’t be shy, give Da Coconut a try!
References:
Michael Murray- The Encyclopedia of Healing foods
Josh Axe- 20 Coconut Oil Benefits for Your Brain, Heart, Joints + More!
