General considerations about the benefits of coconut

The coconut is the face of well-being. It is the fruit that grows on coconut palms, belonging to the palm family and recognized as part of the Cocos nucifera This species is the only existing classification within the botanical genus Cocos, which already shows how special the fruit is.

Its origin is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in Asia. The fruit was brought to Brazil by the Portuguese in the sixteenth century, and then spread to several places, especially to the northeastern coast. It is a highly nutritious food and very versatile, because it can be used and consumed in many different ways.

You, for sure, have already heard that coconut is good for your health and you already know some ways to use it. In this article, you will know more about its benefits and possibilities. So keep reading!

The nutritional profile of coconut

Highly nutritious, coconut also has antioxidant properties and is rich in substances that help maintain hydration and the functioning of our body. Check out some nutritional details about it below!

Mineral salts

The coconut has a high content of mineral salts, such as potassium, sodium, chlorine and phosphorus, which bring various benefits to the body. Potassium is able to optimize the kidney function and act in vasodilation, which can combat and prevent high blood pressure. Together with magnesium, it helps to combat conditions such as heartburn, reflux and poor digestion, by reducing stomach acidity.

In addition, the sodium, potassium and other nutrients in coconut help to prevent and combat cramps, because they improve the functioning of the muscles. The calcium and magnesium present in the fruit also contribute to the strengthening of bones and muscles.

Fibers

In general, 100 grams of coconut contain 9 grams of fiber. That is, the amount of fiber in the coconut corresponds to 36% of its nutritional value. It is a high content and very beneficial for the functioning of the human organism, which needs, on average, 25 grams of fiber per day.

The fibers present in the fruit contribute to the feeling of satiety and good bowel function, which is excellent for health. Thus, you can reap the benefits of fiber intake in several presentations of coconut, but their presence is greater in coconut flour.

Vitamins

In its different presentations, coconut is rich in vitamins A, B, C and E. Besides having antioxidant action and strengthening the immune system, these vitamins have several other benefits. Check out the main ones below.

Vitamin A: aids in the regeneration of body tissues. It also helps with vision and hydration of the ocular surface.

B-complex vitamins: are divided into different classifications and have many functions. They usually act in different metabolic processes, such as amino acid synthesis.

Vitamin C: helps in the absorption of iron and fights weight gain.

Vitamin E: has anti-inflammatory properties and is good for the skin and hair. It is also able to reduce the risk of developing some diseases, such as Alzheimer's.

The health benefits of coconut

Knowing the minerals, vitamins and fiber contained in the fruit, it is easy to be sure that it is very good for your health. But how about knowing a few more details? Check below more benefits that you can have with the consumption of coconut!

Helps the weight loss process

The prolonged feeling of satiety conferred by the presence of fiber and good fats in coconut makes the person take longer to feel the need to eat again. This contributes to the diet of those who are trying to lose weight.

In addition, coconut pulp and coconut water can be excellent substitutes for less healthy and more caloric options. But it is still good not to overdo it, because there are still components in the coconut that, in excess, can contribute to weight gain and other problems.

Coconut water, in particular, has diuretic properties - that is, it helps eliminate excess fluid from the body. Therefore, it is an ally in the fight against swelling due to fluid retention and in diets aimed at weight loss. In addition, because it is very hydrating, it avoids the common confusion of hydric need with hunger or desire to eat.

Improves bowel function

Mainly because it is rich in fiber, coconut is a great ally of good intestinal transit. This high fiber content helps in the formation of the fecal cake and stimulates the peristaltic movements that lead to elimination.

With this, coconut consumption contributes to a functional and easier elimination of waste products that can be toxic to the body and cause swelling and discomfort if they accumulate.

It has antioxidant action

Coconut contains vitamins A, C and E. The three neutralize the action of free radicals, molecules that generate oxidative stress and can be harmful to the body. That is why its action is characterized as antioxidant.

These vitamins fight aging of the skin and other organs, as well as helping to prevent cardiovascular problems.

Helps in diabetes control

The high fiber content of coconut helps control blood glucose, because it reduces the absorption of sugar coming from food. Coconut flour stands out in relation to this benefit due to its greater amount of fiber, not to mention its low glycemic index. With this, it prevents insulin peaks in the blood.

However, it is important that the consumption is not excessive, because coconut flour still has a considerable amount of fats and, with this, can trigger other problems. But, being consumed in moderation and combined with healthy habits, it, for sure, will bring many benefits.

If you want to know more about how to have healthy habits, you can check out the following article after reading this one: