Coconut is a large, round fruit of the coconut palm with a hard, fuzzy shell, thin brown rind, and white flesh, eaten fresh or dried, flaked or grated.
Coconut is a plant of the Palm family (Arecaceae) and the only species of the genus Cocos.
One of the features of these trees is that they willingly live in close proximity to sea water, although they do not need it at all. This is explained by the ease with which the shallow roots of palm trees absorb moisture from the abundantly irrigated soil on the sea coast.
Coconut husks are not damaged in salt water. This means that a nut that has fallen into the sea waves can be carried out into the open sea and, after long wanderings, thrown onto some distant shore, where after some time a young palm tree will be born.
How to choose a coconut?
Coconuts often get pricked during transportation, so the milk spills out of them and they themselves rot. So if you see even a small crack on a coconut, don’t buy it. A good coconut should definitely have milk splashing around, you can hear it clearly.
The coconut flesh should not only be easily separated from the shell, but also from the shell layer (between the white and the shell itself). If not, then the nut was removed green. And the flesh should be soft. It is usually used in the form of small chips.
Use of coconut in cooking
Coconuts are used in fruit salads, desserts, pies, soups and sometimes in main dishes.
Coconut oil is a vegetable fatty oil obtained from copra. It is made by hot pressing fresh dried coconut pulp. It is used mainly in soap making, for the production of cosmetics, for preparing cooling fillings for waffle cakes and in the production of margarine.
With the popularity of Asian cuisine, coconut meat has more recently been used in European recipes.
How to open a coconut
On top of each coconut there are 3 indentations in the shape of an isosceles triangle. First you need to pierce (with a screwdriver, a narrow knife, scissors) the hole that is located closest to the top. You can strain up to two-thirds of a glass from one nut.
Next, a hammer will come in handy :) holding the coconut in one hand, you need to turn it, tap on the so-called golden ratio of the coconut (about a third from the end with black eyes), and it is along this line that a crack will appear quite unexpectedly - this is a natural fault line. All you have to do is stick the tip of a knife into it and apply a little pressure, and the coconut will split open on its own. Although if you open a coconut from the supermarket and it is not the freshest, having a hammer will come in handy again.
Calorie content of coconut
Coconut is considered a high-calorie food due to its high fat content. 100 g of coconut contains 354 kcal. The energy value of coconut oil is 862 kcal per 100 g. However, coconut milk contains only 19 kcal. Excessive consumption of coconuts can cause excess weight.
Nutritional value per 100 grams:
Useful properties of coconuts
Coconut contains many healing substances, natural oils and antioxidants.
Coconut contains potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin, folate and fiber.
Coconut pulp improves digestion and vision, restores strength, improves immunity, and prevents the occurrence of cardiovascular and cancer diseases.
Coconut has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Coconut milk has a pleasant smell and sweet taste, it is very good for the skin and contains about 27% fat, 6% carbohydrates and 4% protein. The milk perfectly refreshes and tones the skin, restores the elasticity of aging and dull skin. It can be used especially successfully to treat acne and allergic rashes, soothe and dry inflamed skin.
Coconut oil consists of triglycerides and medium-chain saturated fatty acids, due to which it is absorbed very quickly, remarkably moisturizes and gives the skin a velvety feel. In particular, lauric acid has a negative effect on a variety of pathogenic microorganisms, bacteria, yeast, fungi and viruses. Coconut oil also contains capric acid (7% of the fatty acid composition), which stimulates antimicrobial activity. Coconut oil is easy to digest and does not put stress on the liver. It is good for your stomach and promotes healthy intestinal flora.
For some citizens in our country, this fruit still retains its mystery. What is the benefit of the snow-white pulp and delicate transparent milk of coconut? And should you be careful when consuming this overseas delicacy?
It is believed that knowledge about coconuts came to us from Indonesia, Brazil, Thailand and the Philippines. In addition, the name of the palm tree has Portuguese roots. The word "coco" means "monkey" in Portuguese. The fact is that three spots on the surface of the fruit are very similar to the face of a monkey.
What does it consist of?
It belongs to the Palm family and the genus Cocos (being its only representative). The coconut nut is mistakenly called. From the biological side, this fruit is a drupe by type, weighing up to 2.5 kg.
It contains an outer shell (exocarp) and an inner shell (endocarp - three spots or pores “flaunt” on it).
Under the shell there is endosperm and white pulp with a unique valuable composition. At first, the endosperm is a clear liquid with drops of oil - coconut water. During the ripening process, the water becomes coconut milk - a milky emulsion. In a finally ripened coconut, the milk thickens and becomes hard.
Calories and nutritional value
Fruit pulp in 100 gr. contains approximately 360 kcal. The calorie content of coconut water is almost zero (per 100 g - 16.7 kcal). Nutrient content per 100 grams:
Properties of the fruit
The unusualness of this tree is manifested in its comfortable existence near sea water. However, he doesn’t need it. With its shallow roots, the palm tree easily absorbs moisture from the richly irrigated soil on the seashore.
Interestingly, salt water does not harm coconut husks. A nut that has fallen into the sea and washed ashore after a long journey gives life to a new palm tree.
Healing ingredients
Thanks to its rich vitamin and mineral composition, this fruit is an ideal way to saturate and replenish energy:
| Content mg/100 g | % of daily value | |
| Vitamins | ||
| vitamin B1 (thiamine) | 0,066 | 5,12 |
| vitamin B2 (riboflavin) | 0,02 | 1,26 |
| vitamin B3 or PP (niacin) | 0,54 | 2,8 |
| vitamin B4 (choline) | 12,1 | 1720 |
| vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) | 0,3 | 3,7 |
| vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) | 0,054 | 2,7 |
| vitamin B9 (folic acid) | 0,026 | 0,01 |
| vitamin C (ascorbic acid) | 3,3 | 4,7 |
| vitamin E (tocopherol) | 0,24 | 0,78 |
| vitamin K (phylloquinone) | 0,0002 | 0,00016 |
| Macronutrients | ||
| potassium | 356 | 7,32 |
| calcium | 14 | 1,19 |
| magnesium | 32 | 9,6 |
| sodium | 20 | 2 |
| phosphorus | 113 | 15,55 |
| Microelements | ||
| iron | 2,43 | 23,09 |
| manganese | 1,5 | 90 |
| copper | 0,435 | 44,37 |
| selenium | 0,01 | 33 |
| zinc | 1,1 | 12,9 |
These substances are contained to a greater or lesser extent in the pulp itself, intrafruit fluid, and oil.
Why is it useful?
Coconut is useful in the following cases:
- urological and nervous diseases;
- following a vegetarian diet;
- hormonal imbalance (thyroid pathology);
- metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus;
- weakened immunity;
- visual impairment and eye diseases;
- heart and vascular diseases;
- joint diseases.
The benefits of coconut for the heart are due to the presence of saturated (but healthy) fats, which normalize cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis. Coconut inhibits the growth of tumors. Its milk and pulp are an excellent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent. These properties allow the product to be used to combat allergic skin manifestations and acne.
Thanks to fiber, coconut stimulates intestinal activity. Coconut pulp and oil reduce the body's tolerance to antibiotics. You can also make ear drops from coconut pulp to help with pain.
Coconut water
It is not common to find fruits with coconut water. It is found in unripe fruits. This does not mean coconut milk (obtained by mixing the pulp with water). They taste different. Coconut water is low in calories, free of unhealthy fats, and tastes cool and sweet-sour.
The benefits of coconut water include:
- quenching thirst;
- restoration of water balance in the body;
- ridding the bladder of infections.
The saturation of useful substances gives coconut water the properties of an almost saline solution.
Pasteurized coconut water, without preservatives and dangerous impurities, represents this wonderful liquid with full preservation of the beneficial properties of coconut, delivered directly to the human body. Of course, fresh fruit is healthier. But it is not always possible to use it constantly.
It is not in vain that this wonderful fruit is so widely used in various areas of human activity. We almost never eat it fresh. But if such an opportunity arises, you cannot shy away from it. After all, the unique properties of this unusual product bring obvious benefits to human health and appearance.
Contraindications and harm
Coconuts have virtually no contraindications, except for individual immunity. Sensitive people should take this into account.
Also, they should not be used by people prone to diarrhea and weight gain.
Areas of use
Fresh or dried fruit pulp, as well as flakes, are used for food. Regular consumption of products with coconut pulp normalizes metabolism. Coconut gives you a boost of energy without excess fat. Coconut flakes and dishes with them strengthen the immune system and provide good protection against viral and fungal infections. Coconut flakes cleanse the intestines of toxins.
It is added to:
- salads;
- baking;
- porridge;
- snacks;
- puddings.
Prepared from coconut milk:
- soups;
- sauces;
- beverages;
- sweet dishes;
- Dessert.
But the benefits of coconut are not limited to the fields of cooking, medicine and cosmetics. The fibers found on the hard shell (coir) are used to make strong ropes, ropes, carpets, brushes and other household items and building materials. Various souvenirs, toys, dishes and even musical instruments are made from the shell itself.
For cosmetic purposes
Coconut milk is useful for internal and external use (masks and lotions). Together with glucose, coconut milk is used in medicine for intravenous injections. This solution has an effect on dehydration by maintaining the desired fluid level.
Its exceptional benefits for the skin are manifested in the fact that it tones and refreshes it. Makes dull and aging skin elastic. Treating acne and allergic rashes with coconut milk gives excellent results. It dries and soothes inflamed skin.
Coconut oil
It is actively used in cosmetic procedures. After its external use, the appearance becomes more attractive.
Coconut oil is simply irreplaceable if the skin is dry, cracked and red. Due to the presence of saturated fatty acids in it, it is quickly absorbed, moisturizes the skin and makes it velvety.
Coconut oil is effective for all types of burns (including sunburn). Dull, split ends from the effects of this product become healthy and shiny.
In addition, coconut oil is a valuable dietary product. The presence of lauric acid in it means protection against pathogenic microorganisms, yeast, bacteria, viruses, fungi. Capric acid stimulates antimicrobial activity. Coconut oil is easy on the liver because it is easy to digest and promotes healthy intestinal flora.
Delicious recipes
First of all, the coconut must be opened. To do this you will have to arm yourself with a knife and a hammer:
- Using the tip of a knife, make a hole in one of the three eyes, which will be softer than the others.
- Drain the liquid and drink immediately; it does not keep for long.
- Using a hammer, start tapping the perimeter, turning the fruit.
- After a couple of laps, the shell will crack.
- Now it can be easily removed by simply pulling it to the sides. If you're lucky, the pulp will remain intact.
Now you can start cooking.
Recipe No. 1 “Three in one”
From one coconut you can get three useful products at once:
- Grind the pulp using a blender or grater.
- Fill the resulting shavings with warm water.
- Leave for a while until completely cooled.
- Remember to masher the pulp. Don't beat it!
- After three to four hours, strain the mixture. The shavings can be dried.
- Place the liquid in the refrigerator for several hours.
- Make a hole in the solidified oil and carefully drain the bottom layer of liquid.
- Collect the oil in a separate container.
Thus, from one fruit you can get about 50 g of butter, a glass of whey (low-concentrated milk) and a whole “mountain” of fresh aromatic shavings.
Recipe No. 2 “Vitamin Raffaello”
The remaining shavings are perfect for this dessert.
Ingredients:
- a mixture of any nuts and coconut flakes (in any proportion) – 250 grams;
- medium-sized bananas - 1.5 pieces;
- dates – 20 pieces;
- coconut shavings for the top layer - 1 cup.
Cooking process:
- Grind the coconut-nut mixture into flour or very fine crumbs using a blender or meat grinder (croll several times).
- Grind the dates (removing the pits) and bananas to a paste. Half a banana can be replaced with some other soft fruits (apricots, peaches, mangoes, etc.).
- If the mass is too thick, add a little water or juice.
- Mix it with nut flour.
- Roll the resulting dough into balls (to reduce stickiness, grease your hands with coconut oil).
- Sprinkle shavings on top.
- Place the finished sweets in the refrigerator for three to four hours.
This dessert turns out to be very satisfying and no less healthy. For greater originality, you can place a small whole nut or berry in the center of each ball.
Recipe No. 3 “Lazy coconut oatmeal” without cooking
This recipe will help diversify your usual breakfast.
Ingredients:
- oatmeal (which takes 20 minutes to cook) – 2 tbsp. spoons;
- coconut milk – 1 glass;
- honey (maple syrup) – 2 teaspoons;
- berries (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, etc.) – 2 handfuls;
- coconut shavings - for decoration.
Cooking process:
- Pour milk over the cereal and mix well. You can use ready-made coconut milk, or you can make your own. To do this, beat the pulp of one coconut with a blender with 300 - 400 ml of warm water and strain.
- Add berries and sweetener to taste.
- Transfer the thoroughly mixed mass into a sealed container and leave in the refrigerator for several hours, or better yet, overnight.
- In the morning (or after the required time has passed), take out the prepared breakfast, decorate it with coconut flakes and enjoy the surprisingly delicate taste of the exotic delicacy.
This recipe can be varied by adding poppy seeds, sesame seeds, chia seeds, nuts, or dried fruits. It is not recommended to use sugar, condensed milk and other similar products as a sweetener, because... this will make the porridge much less healthy.
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Covered with a hard shell on the outside, inside which there is transparent tender milk and snow-white pulp, coconut remains a mysterious fruit for many residents of our country. Not everyone knows what beneficial properties this overseas “nut” has, and for what reasons the milk or pulp of this exotic delicacy should be included in your diet.
The fruit got its name from the Portuguese word coco, which translated into Russian means monkey. This is due to the presence of three spots on the coconut, which make it look like a monkey's face. The fruit grows in the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, from where it is exported to our country.
Many people classify coconut as a nut. This is wrong. The fruit is a drupe whose weight reaches 2.5 kilograms. It is the only representative of the genus Cocos, which belongs to the Palm family. The inner part of the fruit with three pores (spots) is called an endocarp, and the outer (outer) shell is called an exocarp.
On the inside of the shell there is endosperm, as well as white pulp, which has a valuable unique composition. Initially, the completely transparent liquid endosperm contains a few drops of oil, and then from water, as a result of ripening, it turns into a milky emulsion - coconut milk. When the fruit is fully ripe, the milk acquires a thick consistency and hardens.
The tree is distinguished by the fact that it grows on the sea coast. The plant feels comfortable near sea water, but does not need it. Having shallow roots, it receives all the necessary moisture for development and growth from the soil, which is abundantly irrigated on the sea coast.
Salt water does not cause any harm to the peel. If the fruit falls into the sea, it will remain completely unharmed. When washed ashore, it will become planting material from which a coconut tree will grow.
What substances are contained in coconut?
The pulp of the fruit is rich in the following valuable components:
- antioxidants;
- amino acids;
- vitamins of groups C, E and B;
- natural oils;
- fiber.
It contains a lot of potassium, manganese, phosphorus, calcium, iodine, zinc, magnesium. The pulp also contains some amount of sucrose, fructose and glucose.
Calories and nutritional value
Coconut pulp 100 gr. contains approximately 360 kcal. The calorie content of coconut water is almost zero (per 100 g - 16.7 kcal).
- proteins - 3.33 g;
- carbohydrates - 15.23 g;
- fats - 33.49 g.
In milk, the ratio of nutrients is slightly different:
- proteins - 4 g;
- carbohydrates - 6 g;
- fats - 27 g.
The exotic fruit is indicated for consumption:
- for urological pathologies and diseases of the nervous system;
- those who follow a vegetarian diet;
- those suffering from hormonal imbalance due to thyroid dysfunction;
- people with weakened immune systems, as well as those with problems with the cardiovascular system;
- with deterioration of vision and eye diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome;
- those who have joint diseases.
The healthy saturated fats found in coconut stabilize cholesterol levels. This reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis. In addition, the fetus prevents tumors from growing.
Both milk and pulp have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This feature allows you to use coconut fruits against allergic and acne rashes on the skin.
The fiber present in the exotic fruit stimulates and normalizes intestinal function. Consumption of coconut pulp and oil can reduce the body's addiction to antibiotics. Drops that help with ear pain are made from the pulp.
The fruit does not cause any harm, but in some people it can cause individual intolerance. Those who are prone to allergies should be careful when trying coconut for the first time.
Regarding how much coconut you can eat, there are also some nuances here. People who quickly gain weight or suffer from stomach disorders are not recommended to indulge in exotic delicacies.
Where are coconuts used?
The flakes and pulp, both fresh and dried, are used in cooking. Dishes with them, if consumed regularly, normalize metabolic processes. They allow you to get a good energy boost, but without excess fat.
Coconut flakes are also added to food. It has antiviral and antifungal effects, strengthens the immune system, and removes toxins from the intestines. It is used in baked goods, snacks, salads, puddings and cereals. Various sauces, desserts, sweets, drinks and soups are prepared from coconut milk.
Cooking is not the only area where coconut is used. The fibers that cover the outside of the fruit are used to make strong ropes and ropes, as well as brushes, carpets and other household items, and produce a variety of building materials. Coconut shells are used to make dishes, toys, souvenirs, and musical instruments.
Benefits of coconut milk
Valuable for both indoor and outdoor use. A solution of coconut milk and glucose is administered intramuscularly to those suffering from dehydration to maintain fluid levels in the body.
Milk is an excellent tonic and refreshing product for the skin. It restores elasticity to the aging and sluggish dermis and is used in the treatment of allergic and acne rashes. After using the milk, inflamed areas are calmed and dried.
A valuable cosmetic oil is obtained from the dried pulp of the fruit, which is widely used in beauty rituals. It is equally beneficial for both skin and hair. It has a healing effect on any burns, including those treated from prolonged exposure to the sun.
Coconut oil is especially beneficial for dry skin with reddened and cracked areas. The saturated fatty acids included in its composition ensure rapid absorption, moisturizing and velvety skin. Split ends and dull hair become shiny and healthy.
Benefits of coconut oil for the stomach
Coconut pulp oil is dietary. It contains lauric acid, which protects the intestines from the effects of bactericidal, viral, pathogenic and fungal microorganisms, as well as yeast. Thanks to capric acid, the protective functions against microbes are enhanced. The oil is easily digested, does not put a strain on the liver, and normalizes the intestinal flora.
What is coconut water and what properties does it have?
Water is present only in unripe fruits, it is strikingly different from milk, which is formed at the stage of mixing water and pulp, in taste and has almost zero calorie content. Sweet-sour and cool, it does not contain harmful fats.
The substances present in coconut water will give the product properties similar to saline solution. It exhibits the following useful qualities:
- perfectly quenches thirst;
- restores the body's water balance;
- eliminates infections in the bladder.
Fresh fruit has the maximum value, but it is not always possible to purchase one. All the beneficial properties of coconut water are preserved during the pasteurization process, which takes place without the use of any dangerous additives or impurities.
Summarizing
Coconut is an incredibly healthy fruit. It has value not only for health, but also for a person’s appearance. Of course, unlike the usual fruits, it is not always possible to eat it all the time, but if such an opportunity exists, then it is not recommended to miss this chance. This also applies to products obtained from the pulp of this exotic “nut”.
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