5 Health Benefits of Coconut

Today is National Coconut Day! If you’ve ever wondered why coconuts are considered to be a “superfood,” we’re here to dive into the health benefits of this tropical fruit.

For over 4,500 years, islands and coastal areas like Fiji, the Philippines, and Samoa have grown coconuts. Yet, coconuts became popularized by wellness gurus only recently, as the impressive health benefits and creative culinary uses of coconuts were made known. 

Whether you’re drinking a coconut milk latte, sprinkling coconut shavings on oatmeal, or moisturizing with coconut oil, there are many fantastic uses for this superfruit that are healthy for you. Coconuts have a surprising amount of advantages for your overall wellness, which should keep you coming back for more!

Here are 5 health benefits of coconuts: 

1. Keeps You Hydrated

Drinking the water from young coconuts (which can usually be found at any health food store) will deliver all of the electrolytes your body could ever need. Coconut water is the highest-rated source for electrolytes, which will not only keep you hydrated, but will also help your nerves and muscles to function well.

2. Fights Bacteria

Because coconuts contain lauric acid, digesting coconuts leads to the formation of a known bacteria-fighter called monolaurin. This means that coconut can help you keep infections at bay. Studies have even shown that monolaurin kills the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (staph) as well as the most common bacterial source of yeast infections.

3. Delivers Healthy Fats

Unlike most other fruits that are high in carbs, coconuts are high in good fats. Much of this fat is delivered in the form of MCTs, or medium-chain triglycerides, which your body metabolizes differently than other types of fats. MCTs are rapidly used for energy, meaning they may even help you lose weight or extra fat. 

4. Encourages Good Nutrition

Whether you eat it flaked, shaved, as flour, or as a liquid, adding more coconut to your diet is great for nutrition. If you’re looking to avoid added sugar, coconut can add a touch of natural sweetness (and moisture) to breads, muffins, or cookies. Also, using coconut flour in baking is grain and gluten-free, making it a perfect alternative for people on the paleo diet.

5. Improves Skin

The magical MCTs in coconuts make coconut oil extremely beneficial for your skin and hair health. These fatty acids possess antimicrobial properties, which can help fight acne and protect the skin from bacteria. Moreover, coconut oil has been known to reduce inflammation, keep skin naturally moisturized, and heal wounds.

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Next time you jump out of your comfy, organic bed to get a midnight snack, think about the ways you can add more coconut to your diet so that you’ll reap the many health benefits of this tropical superfood. While you’re at it, why not revisit the ways your mattress can affect your health?