Superfood 101: coconut
The jury is in and they decree there are a growing band of supporters – including scentists – who are singing the healing and restorative praise of coconut, and for good reason. There is research showing that coconuts contain properties that can prevent, or even cure, a wide range of ailments from heart disease to Alzheimer’s.
Retired CSIRO scientist and honorary research fellow at the University of Queensland, Mike Foale, has been studying the coconut palm for more than four decades and believes coconut is a superfood. For starters, coconut oil is unique in character and has healing properties. Naturally known to raise energy levels, coconuts can thus aid weight loss. It is also a natural antibiotic when applied to the skin and it raises HDL cholesterol – this is the good cholesterol which lowers the risk of heart problems. Furthermore, coconuts can also help with insulin stabilisation and can be used as a natural alternative to sugar.
So how can you add it to your diet? Well there are many ways, here are some of them:
Coconut flour – a great alternative to starchy flour and it’s also gluten and wheat free
Coconut oil – a healthy and healing alternative to oil
Coconut flakes – a yummy, crunchy addition for baking, salads and mueslis
Coconut sugar – a natural sweetener
Coconut cream – a yummy, thick and dairy-free option