Grown throughout the tropics and a staple in most Southeast Asian diets, the coconut is a source of both food and medicine. The medicinal properties of the coconut have been used to treat a variety of health problems including burns, the flu, gingivitis, malnutrition, nausea, and an upset stomach.
The overall health benefits of coconuts are staggering. Considered a superfood, (a food with high phytonutrient content), coconuts are rich in fiber vitamins and minerals. They are known to promote weight loss and healthy thyroid function, increase metabolism, lower cholesterol, improve energy, clean the digestive tract, balance PH levels and prevent disease.
There are two general classifications for coconuts, ‘young’ and ‘mature’ both claiming different nutritional and physical characteristics. A young coconut has a green or white shell, soft, gel-like meat (often called coconut jelly) and more liquid inside while a mature coconuts are brown and hair with firm meat and less liquid. Though the young and mature coconut hold different nutrient levels, both are mutually beneficial if the liquid and meat are consumed.
The four edible parts to a coconut are water, meat, milk and oil.
Coconut water is the clear liquid that lives inside the coconut. It is an isotonic beverage (having the same salt concentration as the normal cells of the body and the blood) and an excellent source of electrolytes, potassium and minerals. For these reasons, coconut water is used as a replenishing sports drink and a means for preventing dehydration, especially throughout the humid topics.
The white portion on the walls of the coconut is the meat. When grated and combined with hot water or milk, Coconut meat produces coconut milk. Both are used as a staple in many Southeast Asian dishes.
Coconut oil, the fatty oil that comes from the coconut meat, is recognized for a host of nutritional benefits. It is commonly used in traditional medicine among Asian and Pacific populations as a cure for illness and has become a popular source of cooking oil. The benefits associated with coconut oil extend to hair and skin care, weight loss, heart health, immunity, infections, liver, kidney, bones, dental care etc.
Though fresh coconuts are not indigenous to our region, many places now carry products that allow us to enjoy and reap the benefits of this great fruit. Zico, O.N.E and Vita Coco are three producers of pure, 100% natural coconut water. Spectrum, Nutiva and Garden of Life are also producers of coconut products.
