Raw Coconut Benefits
Raw Coconut Benefits
Weight Loss
Raw coconut is rich in medium-chain triglycerides, a type of dietary fat that may encourage weight loss. According to an article published in the June 2006 edition of the Ceylon Medical Journal, medium-chain triglycerides convert into monoglycerides and medium-chain free fatty acids during digestion--two substances your body uses immediately for energy rather than storing as fat. In addition to their metabolism-boosting properties, medium-chain triglycerides may curb hunger more effectively than other forms of fat, leading to a lower calorie intake over time. As a result, the specific fats in raw coconut may promote a healthy body weight and help you shed unwanted pounds.
Fiber
Raw coconut is
rich in dietary fiber, with one cup of shredded meat yielding 7 grams,
according to the USDA National Nutrient Database. As the April 2009
issue of "Nutrition Reviews" explains, diets rich in fiber can boost
health by normalizing bowel movements, reducing your risk of
hemorrhoids, preventing blood sugar swings, lowering blood pressure,
providing long-lasting satiation that discourages overeating, protecting
against diabetes and even boost your immune system. In addition, the
fiber in raw coconut may improve your cholesterol levels by reducing the
amount of low-density lipoprotein--or LDL--cholesterol in your
bloodstream.
Immunity
Several
substances in raw coconut may boost immune function and help your body
fight disease. According to Coconut Connections, specific fats found in
coconut meat--including caprylic, capric and lauric fatty acids--are
antibacterial, antiviral and antiprotozoal, helping to bolster your
immune system and destroy pathogens. Monolaurin, a substance abundant in
coconut fat, may be particularly useful for combating viruses, and
essential fatty acids in coconut may help control a form of yeast
overgrowth known as candida, Coconut Connections notes.
Minerals
A serving of
fresh coconut meat provides high levels of several minerals, helping you
increase the nutritional value of your diet. The USDA notes that a cup
of shredded coconut contains 60 percent of your recommended daily intake
of manganese, 17 percent for copper, 11 percent for selenium, 11
percent for potassium, 10 percent for iron, 9 percent for phosphorus, 6
percent for magnesium and 5 percent for zinc. Together, these minerals
help you maintain normal body functions and promote health.
Manganese
Coconut meat is
high in the trace mineral manganese, with one cup providing 67 percent
of the recommended daily amount for women and 52 percent for men.
Manganese helps you metabolize both fat and protein. It also supports
both the immune and nervous systems and promotes stable blood sugar
levels. Manganese also helps your body use other nutrients such as iron,
thiamine and vitamin E.
Potassium and Copper
Coconut meat
provides a significant amount of two other minerals: potassium and
copper. One cup provides 14 percent of the recommended amount of
potassium and 39 percent of copper. Potassium, along with sodium, is
essential for proper fluid balance within your cells. It is also
necessary for proper heart function and muscle growth. Copper is
important for the production of red blood cells and assists with your
sense of taste.
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