For many decades, health and nutrition have been synonymous. However, many of us do not realize that the tropical fruit we call the coconut has many healthy benefits. Traditionally, coconut water has been thought of as a substitute for other fluids, most often those high in sugar. However, research has shown that this water holds great nutritional value.
Coconut oil has been a health “do not” for years due to its 86 percent saturated-fat concentration. However, solid at room temperature, it is making a strong comeback as a healthier cooking alternative and for baking and cooking as well. While it can be sold as beneficial for cholesterol levels, some health experts are questioning the health benefits of coconut water. One of the health concerns associated with coconut water is that it contains high levels of saturated fat. It can raise blood pressure and may cause increased cholesterol in susceptible people. Yet, while coconut oil is high in saturated fat, it also contains high levels of calories and protein.
Coconut oil contains twice the amount of calories as beef, chicken or turkey and four times the calories of vegetables like celery. This oil can meet your dietary needs when combined with some fruits that contain fiber, protein and unsaturated fat. A diet consisting of coconut water, coconut milk, nuts and fresh organic vegetables are more likely to result in weight loss than a diet low in fat and sugar. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial. It may help prevent food poisoning and serious illnesses.
The saturated fats found in coconut oil are medium-chain fatty acids, which are not classified as saturated fats. Medium chain fatty acids may have a negative effect on your health, but researchers believe that they may actually help your body fight certain cancers. Medium chain fatty acids can raise your blood pressure and lower the cholesterol level in your bloodstream. They may also contribute to plaque build up in your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease. Medium chains fatty acids may also raise the likelihood of diabetes.
Canned coconut milk contains less fat than fresh coconut oil, which is why many people choose canned coconut milk over fresh coconut oil. However, the difference between coconut milk and regular milk is the saturated fatty acids in the latter. Regular milk has only slightly more fat than coconut water. It is healthier for you than all other forms of milk.
The hydrogenated oils found in junk food may increase your risk of heart disease. Eating foods that are made from partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (also called trans-fats) may raise your cholesterol level and reduce the effectiveness of your body’s cells to remove fat. Replacing hydrogenated vegetable oil with virgin coconut oil may help your body naturally eliminate fat. Virgin coconut oil has high concentrations of nutrients, including omega fatty acids and medium-chain fatty acids. This makes it an excellent choice when it comes to replacing unhealthy saturated fat with healthy unsaturated fats.