Coconuts need no introduction and are popular in every Indian culture and cuisine. Grown in the tropicals, they are brown from the outside with a white coconut part inside, known as coconut meat. The milk and oil made of coconut are well acknowledged for their numerous benefits, and the white flesh also has many health advantages. In this article, we look at the different benefits of coconut fruit.
Coconut Fruit Benefits – Loaded with Nutrients
Coconuts are wholesome fruits loaded with essential minerals and vitamins. They are rich in protein, healthy fats, especially MCT (Medium-Chain Triglyceride) – the healthiest fat, and different vitamins and nutrients. Here is the nutritional value of coconut milk in 240 grams for your reference:
| Nutrients | Amount |
| Fat | 57 grams |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Fibre | 5 grams |
| Vitamin C | 11% of Daily Requirement (DR) |
| Folate | 10% of DR |
| Iron | 22% of DR |
| Magnesium | 22% of DR |
| Copper | 32% of DR |
| Manganese | 110% of DR |
Coconut’s Low Glycemic Index
One of the significant coconut benefits is its low GI or glycemic index. This, along with fibre in the coconut fruit, helps optimise bowel movement and manage hunger. Hence, including it in your diet can help with weight management and improve bowel-regularity thereby reducing the risk of constipation.
Coconut Good For Blood Pressure
Potassium is an essential mineral needed by our bodies and is considered excellent for heart health. In the list of coconut health benefits, its ability to reduce blood pressure is very significant. Potassium helps the body remove the excess sodium through urine, which further benefits the body’s blood pressure levels.
Coconut Oil for Skin and Hair
Who doesn’t know the incredible health benefits of coconut fruit’s oil? It may be applied straight to the skin and is used in many cosmetic products. The oil is highly nourishing for the skin as it is made of saturated fats, which work as a defensive barrier. This keeps the skin moisturised, firm, and supple. Similarly, the oil is also excellent for hair health. Applying its oil to your hair can help to treat your hair problems, such as hair fall and breakage. Coconut benefits also extend to preventing scalp infections as it has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which are both great for health and hair.
Coconut Water for Hydration
Coconut water is considered a miracle drink, especially in hot summer months, as it keeps your body hydrated. Its water contains sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which are excellent electrolytes. Your body needs electrolytes to remain hydrated as they balance the fluids, hence making the coconut fruit essential. That is why when people are sick or dehydrated, they are advised to drink coconut water instead of plain water. This water is also an excellent alternative to sports drinks that contain artificial flavours and are high in sugar content.
Top Coconut Fruit Benefits
For ages, people have been using coconut parts for medicinal purposes. This fruit is said to offer many advantages besides the one spoken above. Here are some other coconut benefits for your reference:
- It can counteract some kinds of poisons.
- Its oil can help reduce inflammation.
- Coconut fruit is also known for its ability to kill bacteria.
- You can include this fruit to treat diarrhoea.
- The fruit can also help support the treatment of kidney-related diseases.
- People apply coconut oil to get relief from joint pains.
- Coconut can also be eaten to combat menstrual pains and other related issues.
- Coconut water can be good for diabetic people as it contains anti-diabetic properties.
Final Thoughts
Coconut fruit is very versatile and can be used to make different products. You can use coconut parts for multiple health benefits. The fruit of the coconut can be a healthy addition to your lifestyle and can offer numerous health benefits. You can eat this fruit raw or incorporate it in various healthy dishes to get the most out of this incredibly healthy ingredient.
