Monday 30 January 2012

Coconuts


As I'm sitting here in Thailand sipping on a coconut I thought it would be fitting to right about them. Coconuts are one of my favorite foods.
Coconuts have long been used for their health benefits. They are used widely in Thai, Indian cooking for many centuries. What's great about them is that the whole coconut can be used for both consumption and for material uses such bowls etc.. Coconuts are an exceptional source of lipids( fats) it contains 60% fat with most if it being saturated fat. Making it perfect for vegetarians and vegans. It helps build energy and blood and soothes internal membranes.Coconut milk quenched thirst and is packed full of electrolytes making it perfect for a hot summers day. The milk can also be used as a treatment for diabetes and Edema. 

Another amazing property is that the oil does not denature when heated above 240 degrees meaning that it does not go rancid when cooking and your food will taste sensational. Unrefined coconut oil us over 50% medium chain fatty acids(the kind that is not stored as fat) rather the body metabolises medium chain fatty acids into energy. It's also free from toxic fatty acids found in hydrated and refined oils. Coconuts are a complete protein making it a true super food. Packed with so much there is no way you can resist. 


There are many different forms to get coconut in:
Whole coconut
Shredded coconut
Coconut water
Coconut milk or cream
Coconut oil