Are you Cuckoo for Coconuts?
Wrapping up “Nutrition month” on the blog, we’re going to talk about coconuts. When I learned I had high cholesterol last year, I did some research and spoke to people about how to turn that around. One of the more intriguing food options I encountered was the coconut. That, coupled with my lactose intolerance, forced me to look at non-dairy milk options. Voila! Coconut milk! Coconut oil. Coconut water. Also I noticed many athletes touting the benefits of coconut water as a fantastic sports drink.
One obstacle I found in starting to explore healthy fats for your diet and nutrition is that the oxymoronic term just seems so wrong. How could a fat be “healthy”? Isn’t all fat bad? I learned I needed healthy fats to turn my situation around. So I bought coconuts in oil, water, milk, and spray varieties (spray for cooking).
At first working with coconut oil, there are some interesting things about it. Above 76 degrees, it is liquid. Below 76 degrees, it is solid. If you try it, buy a LARGE container of extra virgin organic coconut oil. Why is it good for you? It’s cholesterol-free. Zero trans-fats and non-GMO. It is cold-pressed and unrefined. It is loaded with high energy MCT (middle-chain triglycerides, see article below), and it has an amazing fresh flavor and aroma. It gives you the experience of the tropics without actually having to go there (of course I do recommend you travel to the tropics, too!). It’s one of the healthiest oils in the world (right up there with olive oil).
After a year of this experiment, now I find I’m consuming coconuts daily in my smoothies (coconut milk and coconut oil), cooking with it, even with scrambled eggs (coconut oil spray), and eating lots of snacks with coconut in them (Larabars, dark chocolate with coconut,etc.). There’s a zesty richness in the versatile coconut that is amazing. Close your eyes when you eat or drink coconuts and you think you’re somewhere in the Pacific Ocean.
Now don’t get me wrong, it’s not a “miracle” food. but it has had an incredible effect on my life with helping me lose weight and I’ve developed a serious love for coconut that has replaced many junk foods and sugary drinks that I no longer eat/drink. Healthy fats are good for you! (in moderation of course)
For more info on this savory delicious tropical treat, read Dr. Mercola’s article linked below. I think you will find it enlightening. So have a coconut treat this week and think of me. Raise your smoothie glass and toast to coconuts! Try coconuts…you’ll LOVE them!
Dr. Joseph Mercola: Coconut Oil Benefits: When Fat Is Good For You.
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