For the past 6 months I have been literally OBSESSED with coconut! Coconut oil, whole creamed coconut, coconut flour, coconut lotion, coconut shampoo; pretty much anything coconut I am a fan of! Not only is this amazing tropical nut tasty, but it is loaded with essential nutrients and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, iodine. The coconut is relatively low in protein compared to other nuts, and the majority of the coconut is saturated fat! But don't let this scare you away! The principle fatty-acid in coconut is lauric acid; it is a medium-chain 12-carbon saturated fatty acid that has potent antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. Fascinatingly enough, coconut oil is now being used to treat both AIDS and Candida because of its antipathogenic effects in the gut. Coconut promotes healthy digestion and healthy functioning of the thyroid, boosting your metabolism which may promote weight loss. Coconut also strengthens the immune system and perhaps lowers the risk for cancer! It sounds like a super food to me!
Make sure the coconut oil you buy is USDA Organic, Expeller-Pressed, and Non-GMO. Also, I have listed all of the internal health benefits of coconut oil, but don't forget that coconut oil is a beauty wonder as well. You can use it as a lotion for rough dry skin or even to moisten your lips!
Two more things:
1. I just discovered the most amazing coconut product called Coconut Manna by Nutiva! You can grab it at Henry's or Jimbos and probably other health food stores! One taste and you will be as hooked as I am!
2. Coconut flour. Perfect for making pancakes, muffins, breads, cookies...My sister and I made chocolate chip cookies using coconut flour and it was the most amazing gluten-free chocolate chip cookie ever!! I will try to post the recipe soon!
<3
