Summer starts in earnest on June 26th when National Coconut Day arrives! The coconut offers sweet support for our bodies in several ways.
Coconut oil alone falls into the superfood category due to its medium chain triglyceride (MCTs) content and all that they seem to do. Whether supporting a weight loss program, moisturizing skin, and hair or metabolizing into energy, coconut oil plays a significant role for your body.
We use the whole coconut in many different forms for our body and everyday cooking. From shredded coconut to milk, cream, water, and oil, each provides essential nutrients and flavor. Its anti-viral and anti-microbial properties are notable as well.
Coconut is rich in fiber, Vitamin B6, iron, and minerals like magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc. The oil from coconut moisturizes our skin and also help keep our skin clear and hair silky, too.
Of course, in the kitchen, we love coconut! Beyond baked goods, coconut infuses sweet flavor to our cooking, and because the MCTs in coconut oil don’t absorb in the body as fat, it is an ideal alternative to other oils and fats.
The flavor of coconut oil makes the best air-popped popcorn. Add coconut milk to your curry recipe and win rave reviews! Those who are lactose intolerant and craving ice cream know that coconut milk also makes an excellent substitute for creamy homemade ice cream. And of course, it’s not summer without a piña colada!
Beyond the fruit and water of the coconut that we consume, the husk and shells are used as a potting medium, carbon filtration, charcoal, bio-fuel, and even organic cat litter. The husks are also used to make coir, which is used in making mattresses, doormats, and more.
Enjoy the benefits of coconut and share your favorite ways to use coconut. Whether it’s a recipe to taste or one to make our skin or hair shine!
