Coconut, the Miracle Fruit

Coconut, once regarded as unhealthy, has made a comeback in healthy eating. Coconut oil is now considered to be one of the healthiest oils to cook with; coconut milk not only adds flavor and creaminess to foods, but can help manage weight, diabetes, and cholesterol; coconut water is full of electrolytes and hydrating power- (Gatorade has nothing on coconut water!) All in all, coconut is proving to be a wonder fruit!

Current recommendations for diabetics is to limit all fats. Olive oil is OK in moderation, as it is a monounsaturated fat, but anything high in calories is discouraged. Everything... except coconut oil! Diabetics can eat coconut oil without fear, as it actually helps regulate blood sugar, thus lessening the effects of the disease. Coconut puts less of a demand on the enzyme production of the pancreas, allowing the organ to function more effectively. The oil also helps supply energy to cells because it is easily absorbed without the need for insulin or enzymes.

Coconut oil raises metabolic rate, causing the body to burn up more calories and thus promote weight loss. YES! You can actually LOSE excess WEIGHT by adding coconut oil to your diet. The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil are sent directly to the liver for conversion into energy and not into body tissues as fat. (Check out the book, Eat Fat, Look Thin for more info on coconut oil benefits).

Adding more coconut into your diet can help manage or prevent high cholesterol, as well, by aiding in the metabolism process and sugar delivery system. Coconut, avocados, and olive oil are all fats to eat MORE of when combating cholesterol and obesity.

People are always asking about taste. Coconut oil does not make your food taste like coconut. We use it for sauteing all types of foods, and it never tastes like coconut. It just tastes good- inside and out!

We also use it as baby oil and body lotion- your skin LOVES it! Baby John has been getting rubbed down almost daily with coconut oil, and has never had any baby acne, cradle cap, or any skin problems. Just smooth, baby soft skin! Coconut Oil does a body good, inside and out!

You can buy coconut oil in the grocery store in the oil aisle. Look for Whole Foods 365 Brand for a reasonably priced and high quality brand.

This is our favorite (and nutritionist approved!) dessert; check it out! Coconut Bliss. http://www.coconutbliss.com

Our best pick for Coconut Water is Amy and Brian's. http://amyandbriannaturals.com. (I recommend it after a great workout or a big night of drinking- nothing hydrates better!)