Coco for CoconutsBy Kathleen Berry-Hebert

Coconuts

“Super-foods” these days get a lot of hype. Recently coconuts have been getting extra promotion and press as their popularity has been increasing. But what are the real nutritional benefits of coconuts? Some people claim that all oils should be replaced with coconut oil in your foods. People say it’s good for your heart and it won’t turn to fat. This is actually a myth. There is not much evidence that coconut oil helps with weight loss and lowering cholesterol. In fact, too much coconut oil (coconut fat) is 90% saturated fat, more likely to increase the bad kind of cholesterol, LDL.

What do other forms of coconut

do for our bodies?

Coconut Flour

• Coconut flour is gluten-free, great for Celiacs Disease or those with a gluten intolerance. It’s also high in fiber so absorbs a lot of liquid.

Coconut Sugar• Coconut sugar comes from the

sap of a coconut palm. The sugar has a low GI value, a value of 54. It contains just as many calories as regular table sugar.

Dried Coconut

• Dried coconut is great for baking because of the chewy texture it adds with a subtle flavor.

Coconut Water• Coconut water has little natural sugar, low levels of

electrolytes, minerals, and antioxidants. It tastes different but still refreshing like water. Although it doesn’t live up to it’s hype that is marketed. It is not significantly better for you than water.

Coconut Milk

• Coconut milk is lower in fat than coconut cream- milk at 24% and cream at about 35%. Coconut milk is a great addition in Thai or Indian curry dishes. Coconut milk in rice makes sticky rice, which is a great dessert!

Coconut Milk Yogurt• Coconut milk yogurt is dairy free but much

higher in fat then regular yogurt.

In Conclusion

While coconut products are great for their small nutritional benefit, alternative nutritional options and different styles of cuisines, it is also important not to overestimate or blow the nutritional value out of proportion.