Coconut Water Health Benefits

Coconut water is the liquid inside an immature green coconut. It is the juice or endosperm of the young coconut. This water is now popular all over the world for its refreshing taste along with nutritious and health-benefitting properties.

Coconut water is rich in dietary fiber, enzymes, vitamin C, minerals (such as magnesium and potassium) and amino acids. But at the same time it is low in calories, chlorides and cholesterol. These properties make it useful for people trying to loose weight (by speeding up their metabolism and creating a feeling of fullness). By applying coconut water directly on your skin, you will keep it hydrated and balance its pH levels, leading to reduced acne, less visible signs of ageing, stretch marks, and cellulite and even treat eczema. Drinking coconut water will also help boost your immune system and fight the symptoms of the common cold and flu; keep your cardiovascular health in top shape and aid the kidneys in filtering the toxins and thus reducing the risk of kidney stones.

Coconut water is very refreshing and rich in sugar, electrolytes and minerals – available in the natural form in most sterile conditions. It is a natural isotonic drink where the electrolyte levels are similar to those found in the human body. Some research has shown coconuts to have cytokinins which have significant anti aging, anti carcinogenic and anti thrombotic effects.

The water of fresh green coconuts is actually fat free and has zero cholesterol – some studies even go as far as to say that it increases the HDL levels in the body. Once a coconut is cut open, the water should be consumed as exposure to air can result in loss of nutrients. It is low in fat though rich in vitamins and the potassium level is twice the amount found in bananas.

Coconut Water for Weight Loss: Drinking coconut water helps a person to lose weight as it is low in fat – it keeps a person feeling full and reduces food cravings. It is a storehouse of important nutrients, B-complex vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, thiamin and pyridoxine, and folates. It has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties – these help when a person has flu or herpes - both of which are due to viral infections.

Coconut Water During Pregnancy: Coconut water is generally recommended during pregnancy as it helps in constipation, heart burn and slow digestion. The lauric acid present in coconut water has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, which boost the body’s immune system.

Coconut Water and Kidney Disease: Tender coconut water is very beneficial to a person with kidney stones due to its minerals, potassium and magnesium content. This water also acts as a diuretic as it increases the flow and production of urine. Most urologists recommend coconut water every alternate day as it can reduce the size of kidney stones and even help eliminate them.

Coconut Water for Skin: Coconut water is wonderful for the skin also; when coconut water is applied to affected skin areas with acne, spots, wrinkles, stretch marks, cellulite and eczema – left overnight for two to three weeks - it clears up the skin and gives you a youthful-looking smooth skin. It can be applied to hands and nails for its smoothening and repairing properties.

Coconut Water & Heart Health

One of the major health benefits of coconut water is its ability to help maintain good cardiovascular health.

Studies have shown that individuals coping with high blood pressure generally have low potassium levels. Coconut water, considering its high potassium concentration, can help regulate blood pressure in the body.

Additionally, research has also indicated coconut water may help increase HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol. What could be beneficial about increasing cholesterol? Well, HDL cholesterol is commonly known as the "good" cholesterol.

It acts as a scavenger and removes LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol , the "bad" kind. Then it transports this bad cholesterol to the liver for reprocessing.

HDL cholesterol also maintains the health of blood vessel walls, preventing such complications as atherosclerosis. All of these functions, together, ward off heart attacks and strokes.

Coconut Milk Health Benefits

Coconut milk is a crucial part of a plant-based diet because it is a vegan replacement for milk that doesn’t require much compromise — it boasts a creamy consistency and a delicious taste.  

Coconut milk is extraordinarily versatile and serves a variety of purposes in the kitchen. From breakfast to dinner and savory to sweet, coconut milk has a place in your diet. It  is packed with vitamins C, E, B1, B3, B5, and B6 as well as iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. And its benefits don’t end in the gut. Coconut milk makes for an effective beauty product as well. The following uses for coconut milk are sure to convince you to make it a daily fixture in your life. 

Coconut milk is a crucial part of a plant-based diet because it is a vegan replacement for milk that doesn’t require much compromise — it boasts a creamy consistency and a delicious taste.  

Coconut milk is extraordinarily versatile and serves a variety of purposes in the kitchen. From breakfast to dinner and savory to sweet, coconut milk has a place in your diet. It  is packed with vitamins C, E, B1, B3, B5, and B6 as well as iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. And its benefits don’t end in the gut. Coconut milk makes for an effective beauty product as well. The following 15 uses for coconut milk are sure to convince you to make it a daily fixture in your life. 

To prepare coconut milk, crack open a young Thai coconut, place the water and the scooped-out flesh into a blender and mix until smooth. If you are using a packaged version of coconut milk, make sure it comes in a BPA-free can or a milk box. Aroy-D and Native Forest Organic package coconut milk in a BPA-free can and Coconut Dream is a popular boxed brand.  

1. Substitute for Coffee Cream

Nix the dairy and opt for a healthier, animal-friendly alternative. Use coconut milk to replace the cream you pour into your morning cup of joe, and you’ll get a boost of energy not just from the caffeine but also from the electrolytes provided by the coconut milk itself. Coconut contains potassium, sodium, magnesium and chloride, all of which help to keep the body hydrated and properly functioning.

2. Braise Meat

Coconut milk may not be the first ingredient you associate with chicken and meat, but it actually adds a sweet, delicious touch to the meal. Mix about ½ cup of coconut milk into the liquid of braising meat or chicken and watch as the milk absorbs the flavors of the dish and makes for a creamy, full-flavored sauce.

3. Be Calm and Drink Coconut Milk

Coconut milk contains 89 milligrams of magnesium per cup, which makes it a rich source of a mineral that helps to calm the nerves and maintain normal blood pressure. Magnesium blocks nerve cells from becoming overactive by virtue of becoming stimulated by calcium. Calm nerve cells reduce contraction of muscles and make you feel more relaxed.

4. Build Strong Bones (Without the Dairy)

Coconut milk is not a good source of calcium. It contains just over 38 milligrams of calcium per cup compared to regular milk’s 300 milligrams in the same serving size. But while it may not be able to give dairy a run for its money in terms of calcium, it is a rich source of phosphorus. With 240 milligrams of phosphorus per cup, coconut milk contributes to strong bones.

5. Moisturize Skin

Whether ingested or applied directly to the skin, coconut milk is helpful in hydrating the skin and keeping it soft and smooth. Its fat content locks in moisture. Simply apply a thin layer of coconut milk to a cleansed face, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then rinse clean. Pat dry to reveal supple, soft skin.

6. Fight Infection

Coconut milk contains a fatty acid called lauric acid, which is quite valuable to the human body. When it enters the body, lauric acid is converted to monolaurin, which is a compound that has antiviral and antibacterial properties. For this reason, coconut milk consumption could fight infections and viruses.

7. Control Weight 

Because coconut milk contains saturated fats, it is often shunned by dieters as a fattening agent. However, because of its fiber content, coconut milk makes you feel fuller longer and, in moderation, can help to control weight.

8. Maintain Blood Sugar Levels

Coconut water is a source of manganese, which is vital for regulating blood sugar levels. One of manganese’s most important functions is to help metabolize glucose in the human body. Manganese is also essential for metabolism function, treating inflammation, preventing osteoporosis, alleviating PMS in women, aiding vitamin absorption and maintaining the health of the digestive track.

9. Remove Makeup

Mix 1 part coconut milk with 2 parts olive oil and use the concoction as a gentle way to remove eye makeup and moisturize skin at the same time. There is no need for harsh, alcohol-ridden chemicals to get rid of makeup around the most sensitive area of your face. 

10. Lower Cholesterol

Despite its saturated fat content, coconut milk can actually help to reduce cholesterol levels if you are used to cooking with butter and dairy-based creams. The truth is, not all saturated fats are created equal. Coconut milk raises cholesterol levels, but its lauric acid boosts HDL (good) cholesterol, which improves the HDL-LDL (bad) cholesterol ratio. So while the better option may be to reach for an unsaturated fat, if choosing among saturated fats, coconut milk is the best of the bunch. The fats in coconut milk are also easier for the body to break down and metabolize and contain healthy fats including omega 6 essential fatty acids.

11. Prevent Wrinkles

Improve skin elasticity with the consumption or application of coconut milk due to its copper and vitamin C content. Copper and vitamin C maintain flexibility and elasticity of the skin and blood vessels, slowing the aging process of your skin and body.

12. Treat Sunburns

After a long day in the sun, it’s never a bad idea to continue the tropical theme, even in the form of a remedy. Apply a thin layer of cool coconut milk to the sunburned area and the coconut milk with soothe and moisturize the skin.

13. Get Baking

For those who have lactose intolerance or are opting for a more animal-friendly diet, try using coconut milk in place of milk in baked dessert recipes. While other nut milks on the market do a good job of replacing dairy milk, sometimes they have a watery consistency that does not to the dessert much justice. Coconut milk packs with it a viable bulk that can bring the decadence back to vegan baked goods.

14. Treat Arthritis

Coconut milk contains selenium, which is an antioxidant that relieves arthritis symptoms. Selenium controls free radicals and decreases the risk of joint inflammation.

15. Condition Hair

Benefit from the nutrients and fats in coconut milk with a hair treatment. Massage coconut milk into your scalp and use your fingers to brush the milk through hair strands. Once covering your hair and scalp, wrap your hair in a towel and let the coconut milk sit for an hour or two. The longer it sits, the more deeply the moisturizing and strengthening effects of coconut milk will penetrate. You could also warm the milk up prior to application to jump start the assimilation of nutrients.

Coconut Oil Uses

1. In cooking as a great oil with a high smoke point. Great for baking, stir-frys or as a dairy free replacement to butter.
2. Taken supplementally for daily energy.
3. As a coffee creamer when emulsified into coffee (The only way I’ll drink coffee)
4. On the skin as a basic lotion
5. In homemade lotion bars for soft, smooth skin
6. In homemade deodorant or deodorant bars
7. As an eye-makeup remover
8. As a cloth diaper safe diaper cream (just rub on baby’s bottom)
9. In making your own Remineralizing Toothpaste
10. To lighten age spots when rubbed directly on the skin
11. To prevent stretch marks during pregnancy
12. To support healthy thyroid function
13. In homemade Mayo without the high PUFA vegetable oils
14. To help increase sun tolerance and avoid burning
15. As a naturally SPF 4 sunscreen
16. In homemade lotion recipes
17. To get rid of cradle cap on baby- just massage in to head, leave on for a few minutes and gently rinse with a warm wash cloth
18. Topically to kill yeast or yeast infections
19. As a delicious tropical massage oil
20. It’s high Lauric acid and MCFA content helps boost metaboism
21. A tiny dab rubbed on your hands and then through hair will help get rid of friz
22. As an intensive nighttime facial moisturizer
23. Mixed with equal parts sugar for a smoothing body scrub (use in the shower)
24. Rubbed on lips as a natural chap stick
25. Topically, can help skin heal faster after injury or infection
26. Directly on the perineum to help heal after birth
27. As an incredibly intensive natural conditioner- Rub into dry hair, put a shower cap on and leave for several hours.
28. On feet to fight athlete’s foot or tor fungus
29. In place of Lanolin cream on nursing nipples to sooth irritation (also great for baby!)
30. Can help sooth psoriasis or eczema
31. There is some evidence that regular ingestion of coconut oil can help prevent or reverse Alzheimers
32.  With apple cider vinegar as a natural treatment for lice that actually works
33. In natural Homemade Sunscreen
34. In healthy brain boosting snack for kids like Coconut Clusters
35. In a filling and energy boosting Brain Powder Smoothie
36. Rub coconut oil on the inside of your nose to help alleviate allergy symptoms
37. Nursing moms can take 3-4 tablespoons a day (and Vitamin D) to increase milk supply and nutrients
38. There is some evidence that coconut oil helps digestion and may even kill intestinal parasites or yeast
39. Mix a tablespoon with a tablespoon of chia seeds for an all-day energy boost (do NOT take this at night!)
40. Can help improve insulin levels
41. Oil pulling with coconut oil and a drop of oregano oil helps improve gum health
42. Can help improve cholesterol ratios
43. Blend a tablespoon into hot tea to help speed recovery from cold or flu
44. In Homemade Natural Bug-Off Lotion Bars
45. As a replacement for vegetable oils in any recipe
46. Better for high-temperature cooking than olive or vegetable oils
47. Can help reduce appearance of varicose veins
48. After initial heat is gone, can help speed healing of sunburn
49. Is an immediate source of energy when eaten and isn’t stored as fat
50. As a natural personal lubricant that won’t disturb vaginal flora
51. As a naturally antibacterial skin cream
52. In natural homemade diaper cream
53. As a natural shave cream and after shave lotion
54. When used consistently on skin it can help get rid of cellulite
55. To season cast iron skillets
56. It’s anti-inflammatory properties can help lessen arthritis
57. Can reduce the itch of mosquito bites
58. Can help resolve acne when used regularly
59. Can be rubbed into scalp daily to stimulate hair growth
60. I’ve used in kids ears to help speed ear infection healing
61. On split ends to de-frizz
62. A small amount can be rubbed into real leather to soften and condition (shiny leather only… test a small area first)
63. By itself as a great tanning oil
64. Mixed with salt to remove dry skin on feet
65. Can help speed weight loss when consumed daily
66. Can help improve sleep when taken daily
67. Can be used to speed healing of fungal infections when taken internally and used externally
68. A tablespoon melted into a cup of warm tea can help sooth a sore throat
69. To help sooth the itch of chicken pox or poison ivy
70. It has been shown to increase absorption of calcium and magnesium
71. Internally as part of the protocol to help remineralize teeth
72.  Some evidence shows that the beneficial fats in coconut oil can help with depression and anxiety
73. By itself as a natural deodorant
74. By itself or with baking soda as a naturally whitening toothpaste
75. For pets struggling with skin issues when used externally
76. Some evidence suggests that the beneficial fats in coconut oil are helpful for those with Autism
77. In homemade vapor rub
78. As a safe cooking oil for deep frying
79. A tablespoon taken before each meal can help improve digestion
80. Can be taken in warm ginger tea to sooth heartburn or nausea
81. As a completely natural baby lotion
82. On hands after doing dishes to avoid dry skin
83. Mixed with catnip, rosemary or mint essential oils as a natural bug repellent
84. Can be used on mom’s nipple and baby’s mouth to help treat thrush
85. Many use it as an anti-aging facial moisturizer
86. Use to make coconut cream concentrate for a brain boosting snack
87. Can be used internally and externally to speed recovery from UTIs
88. When taken regularly, it can help fight candida
89. When taken regularly, it can boost hormone production
90. Can relieve the pain of hemorrhoids when used topically
91. Can boost circulation and help those who often feel cold
92. On cuticles to help nails grow
93. Rub into elbows daily to help alleviate dry, flaky elbows
94. Add to smoothies to give them a nutritional boost
95. Internally during pregnancy to help provide baby necessary fats for development (especially when taken with Fermented Cod Liver Oil)
96. In any recipes where vegetable oils are used
97. Whipped with shea butter for a soothing body balm
98.  One reader swears by using coconut oil to treat yeast infection. She suggests soaking a tampon in it and inserting the tampon for a few hours.
99. Naturally clears up cold sores
100. Ingesting coconut oil daily can help with allergy symptoms
101. Ingesting coconut oil daily can increase mental alertness

Coconut Oil Health Benefits

Eating coconut oil on a regular basis has numerous health benefits. If you do some basic research on the health benefits on coconut oil you will discover just how amazing this food really is. These benefits include healthier skin and hair, lower cholesterol levels, weight loss, increased levels of immunity, proper digestion and metabolism. It has been show to provide relief from kidney problems, heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV and other viruses, cancer, and bone strength. The reason it is so effective and healthy is because of high levels of lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid. The presence of these acids contributes to coconuts antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, antimicrobial and general body nourishing properties.

Coconut oil, for instance, is considered the best and safest oil to use for cooking — even superior to extra virgin olive oil when it comes to giving the body what it needs for optimum health. Unlike other fats and oils that we typically use for cooking and baking, coconut oil does not form polymerized oils or dangerous trans fatty acids in our bodies, which can raise our cholesterol levels; clog our arteries and even make our skin sag and wrinkle. Plus, this ultra-safe oil can give your body important antioxidants that can help build stronger cells and improve your overall health and well being.

In addition to being superior for cooking and baking, coconut oil also makes superb topical oil that can help to naturally rid the skin of dangerous toxins. It also gives the skin the perfect mix of hydration and antioxidants that it needs to stay healthy, smooth and younger-looking longer.

This amazing oil is great for everyday uses, it can make your hair healthy, skin sensational, cure your indigestion, heal wounds and infections and is great for culinary cooking or “uncooking” for you raw foodies. Coconut oil also has some great health benefits. You might find it hard to believe, but this oil can help with both weight loss and heart health…I know it sounds crazy, but it’s true!!

1. Wonderful for weight loss

It contains something called short and medium-chain fatty acids; these fatty acids help in taking off excessive weight.  Since it is easy to digest, it helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and endocrine system. It  also helps to burn more energy by increasing the body’s metabolic rate by removing stress on the pancreas. Doesn’t mean you should eat a gallon of it…everything in moderation!!

2. It has been shown to lessen the effects of diabetes

The healthy fat in coconut oil plays an essential role in regulating blood sugar. This is done by slowing the digesting process and ensuring a steady, even stream of energy from food by lowering the overall glycemic index of a meal. For example, if you include coconut oil in a meal with carbohydrates, the carbs are broken down into glucose more slowly, thereby keeping your blood sugar levels steady after you eat.

3. You can get strong bones and teeth from coconut oil

Since coconut oil improves calcium and magnesium absorption in the body.  So it makes it beneficial for dental and bone health….so you don’t have to worry so much about those cavities!!!

4. It is heart healthy

I know it’s crazy, but it is heart healthy!!  Even though coconut oil is high in saturated fats, it is actually beneficial to your heart. It contains about 50% lauric acid, which helps to prevent various heart conditions such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure.  Coconut oil does not lead to increase in LDL levels, and it reduces the incidence of injury and damage to arteries.  Something for you and your heart to be happy about!!

5. It’s a great way to improve your immune system

Coconut oil contains some fancy names; antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties that help fight infections and the flu.  It must be good for you if it is anti anything!!!

6. Eases digestion

Coconut oil contains anti-microbial properties, which can have a soothing effect on bacteria, candida, or parasites that cause poor digestion and conditions like indigestion, bloating and irritable bowel syndrome.

7. Good for the skin

Coconut oil not only helps your skin manage the aging process (fine lines/wrinkles, etc.), but it is also an excellent natural moisturizer that’s free of toxins and pesticides. It keeps the skin’s connective tissues strong, which prevents sagging and wrinkles.

8. Improves hair health

Coconut oil can also help nourish your hair and keep it vibrant and healthy. Coconut oil can make hair appear thicker by adding body, its antibacterial properties protect the scalp against infections that cause itching, dandruff and weak or dry hair. In addition, Vitamins E and K found in coconut oil nourish hair and boost health and shine.

9. Good for your brain

Medium Chain Triglycerides, the primary type of fat found within coconut oil, have been found to boost cognitive performance, and even stall or reverse neurodegenerative diseases in their early stages. This is because our brain is made primarily of fat and restricting your diet of healthy saturated fat (the kind found in coconut oil) can result in inadequate nutrition for the brain.

10. Helps you manage sugar cravings

May seem counter-intuitive, but increased consumption of fat can actually help you beat your sugar cravings, while improving your health. Saturated fats found in coconut oil provide solid sustenance for your body and brain, which can help naturally eliminate your cravings for sugar.

11. Improves hair health

Another great benefit of coconut oil is in protecting your teeth from the bacteria that can cause cavities and disease. Simply rubbing a little fresh coconut oil on your gums and teeth can keep them stronger and healthier than virtually any other dental treatment.

Coconut fats have special fats called medium chain triglycerides (MCTs). It has been shown that breaking down these types of healthy fats in the liver leads to efficient burning of energy. One 2009 study found that women who consumed 30 milliliters (about 2 tablespoons) of coconut oil daily for 12 weeks not only did not gain more weight, but actually had lowered amounts of abdominal fat, a type of fat that is difficult to lose, and contributes to more heart problems.

Unsaturated fats found in canola, corn and other vegetable oils, as well as margarine suppress the metabolism, which makes it harder to lose weight — and easier to gain it. Over time, this metabolism suppression may result in 20-30 pounds of excess weight that your body cannot get rid of. Coconut oil, on the other hand, helps to increase thyroid function and boost your metabolism — 2 important components to shedding unwanted pounds.