One of the most remarkable renewable resources available to us is the coconut. It is often something that we associate with tropical beach locations or perhaps Thai food. Many people are yet to discover all the benefits for the family to be had from coconut products. This post in its own small way seeks to address this fault.
For those people who were not fortunate enough to grow up in tropical climes there is a tendency to view coconut oil as being unhealthy because it is classified as a saturated fat. However, consider the fact Northern America has eaten mostly polyunsaturated fats for the last 50 years: has it helped decrease rates of obesity, heart disease or cancer? The answer is no.
Coconut Oil Has Many Benefits
Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids unlike most polyunsaturated fats that contain long chain fatty acids. The advantage of medium chain fatty acids is that the body finds it much easier to absorb these shorter fatty chains. Rather than storing the fat in the body it is converted to energy. The family can enjoy the boost in energy levels given by coconut oil as well as the family pooch as it is now possible to buy coconut oil for dogs.
Coconut milk is extracted by squeezing the meat of mature coconuts. It contains not only coconut oil but many minerals and vitamins. Coconut milk is a great source for vitamins C, E, B1, B6, B5 and B3. It is also rich in iron, selenium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. It is a better substitute for cow’s milk than soy milk and it is nearly always organic. Coconut milk can be used in soups, curries, desserts as well as smoothies.
During World War II coconut water was used for emergency IV blood transfusions when blood was not available. This is because it is an exact match with human blood plasma. It is an amazing liquid that is rich in electrolytes and that makes the perfect re-hydration drink. For anyone in the family who works out regularly coconut water is ideal. It is also a great hangover drink.
For centuries coconut oil has been used for beauty purposes. Coconut oil is not greasy and smells slightly of coconuts. It sinks deep into the skin and replaces lost oils and so helps to moisturize. It is better than many other moisturizers because it contains anti-oxidants that stop the formation of free radicals that cause wrinkles and other signs of aging.
The great thing about coconut products is that they are not expensive. They are also earth friendly since the coconut palm reaches maturity in just 7 years. So why not give away a few coconut gifts this year?
