Nutritionist Nikhil Chaudhary lists reasons to include coconut in your daily diet
Coconut a humble super food. Here’s why
HEART lOVING
Coconut is a big part of the staple diet for long living cultures like Pukapuka and Tokelau (Polynesian populations) & Kitevan people (Papua New Guinea). They have low rate of heart and other lifestyle diseases. Contrary to popular belief that coconut is high in saturated fat which increases the risk of heart disease, coconut has been found to increase the HDl cholesterol which is good for the heart.
BRAIN BOOSTER
Coconut oil is a rich source of Medium Chain Triglycerides which is great for the nervous system and helps neurons survive and thrive, and has also shown some improvement in diseases like Alzheimer’s, cognitive impairment, Parkinson’s and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (AlS). They can be used by the brain as a source of energy.
HITS INFECTIONS
Coconut is a rich source of lauric acid which is anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and checks the growth of harmful micro organisms in the gut including those which are resistant to antibiotics like Candida. It is one of the most important foods we should consume regularly to avoid infections and acne. Topical application of coconut oil is beneficial in curing Athlete’s foot, ring worm, allergies, dry skin, dry lips & hair problems.
STRONG TEETH
Using coconut oil helps remove harmful bacteria from teeth, gums, cavities and tongue to maintain oral hygiene and whiten the teeth.
BODY SHAPER
Multiple studies have proven the weight loss benefits due to consumption of coconut. leptin The satiety hormone is produced when we have enough fat in the body which suppresses ghrelin (hunger hormone) helping us to lose weight. Eating coconut leads to production of leptin which makes us eat less and also signals the body to burn fat.
PEP-UP PROPERTIES
Coconut oil is widely used along with essential oils for recreational, rejuvenating purposes and also as a mosquito repellent.
THE STRONG FRIEND
The high anti-oxidant content and anti-inflammatory properties also makes it a great immune booster. It has shown great benefits in case of arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
lACTOSE FREE MIlK
Coconut milk is an amazing replacement for the cow/buffalo milk as it is lactose free. It is organic and most importantly does not contain high quantities of growth hormones like IGF-1 and EGF which are known to promote cancer, obesity, diabetes and other diseases.
SIP OF GOOD HEAlTH
Coconut water is rich of minerals and vitamins and is an excellent fluid to restore electrolytic balance in the body especially after a heavy exercise, in cases of loose motion and diarrhoea, dehydration and ulcers.