BUSTING MYTHS ABOUT COCONUT
Over the time along with a number of speculations and contraindications, studies have proven the fact that in order to get rid of the extra fat or bad fat from your body the key is to eat good amounts of healthy fats. One of the healthiest source of such fats here in southern India comes from Coconut Tree.
It not only ensures fat burning but also useful to boost metabolism and control blood sugar.
Now the miracle component in coconut is the group of essential fatty acids called Medium chain triglycerides, a fat similar to mother’s milk.
MCT are helpful in providing strength and endurance, improves nerves coordination,supports thyroid function and improves feeling of well being.
Fact vs Fiction
| FICTION | FACT |
| Coconut contains cholesterol | It is a plant food so it has no cholesterol. On the other hand it will help to lower your cholesterol levels. |
| Its unhealthy for heart | Lauric acid ,the saturated fatty acid in coconut has actually proven good for heart along with its anti-inflammatory properties. |
| No coconut for diabetics | Addition of fat to meals lowers the Glycaemic index of food , so recommended for diabetics. |
| Its high in calories | The fatty acids in coconut improves satiety and therefore added to meals so that in less amounts they make you feel full. |
Different ways to have coconut
1. Tender coconut water – Considered far better than cold drinks . Improves renal function too . Its natural refresher.
2. Tender Coconut or Malai – Good for intestines especially in conditions like chronic constipation,IBS,Ulcerative colitis.
3. Ripe and fleshy coconut – When added to your meals and curries improves satiety and fat burning property.
4. Dry coconut – Often used in preparing sweets.
5. Coconut oil – In most of the regions in southern India , it is the basic cooking medium which has proven healthy for our heart and brain functioning as well.
Ratika Vinchurkar is a Clinical and Lifestyle dietitian, currently practicing at RxDx. Experienced in treating nutritionally all kinds of degenerative and lifestyle disorders like Diabetes, Hypertension, Thyroid Disorders, Cardiovascular disorders, renal disorders and other chronic diseases; Her practical approach towards the lifestyle diet modification rather than just prescribing strict regimens endear her to her patients. She holds a master’s degree in Food and Nutrition and favors the theory of “you are what you eat”.
