Have you discovered the power of the humble coconut? This amazing nut from paradise is good for more than just pina coladas!
Coconuts are one of the only natural sources of Medium Chain Fatty Acids (MCT's) such as Lauric Acid and Caprylic Acid in our diets.
MCT's, also found in breast milk, are metabolised differently to other fats;
- They are effeciently converted into fuel without the use of bile salts.
- They have anibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties similar to those that occur in human breast milk.
- They decrease the ratio of total HDL - cholesterol.
- They do not change when heated to high temperatures which makes coconut oil the healthiest and safest cooking oil.
Water, Milk, Cream, Butter, Oil there are so many forms of coconut available that it can be confusing. Here is a simple guide to how to use this fantastic super food.
Coconut water - Low calorie drink with more electrolytes than most sports drinks and more potassium than two banannas! Great when you need a boost!
Coconut milk and cream - Can be used for cooking such as Thai Curreys and soups (usually the thicker form found in tins). Or the drinking form (brands like KoKo) used as an alternative to cows milk for drinking, on cereals, in tea and coffee and for baking. Coconut milk is much easier to digest and much healthier than cows milk or soya milk.
Coconut oil - the ONLY oil that should be used when cooking at high temperatures as the structure is not changed. Don't worry you can't taste it!
Coconut butter - great for spreading!
No wonder at Primrose Clinic we are totally Nutty about Coconuts!
Comments