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<font size=4>'''Coconut The Giving Tree'''</font><br>
by [[Maletsky, Franklin Harry|Franklin H. Maletsky]]
==Coconut tree==
The common names for the coconut are coconut palm, coco palm, and of course the coconut tree. The scientific name is cocos nucifera. The scientific name cocos nucifera was derived from the Portuguese language. Cocos is Portuguese for monkey, in reference to the face that appears on the stripped nut. Nucifera means nut bearing.  The coconut tree is an ever giving tree. Almost every part of the coconut tree is useful. The Coconut Palm or coconut tree (Cocos nucifera) is the only species in the cocos family that grows to 30 meters or almost 100 feet tall. The term coconut refers to the fruit of the coconut palm or coconut tree.
<gallery>
Image:Coco pandak.jpg|Coconut Pandak 4years old
File:Coco Pandak 1.jpg|Dwarf Coconut 4 years old
File:Copra.JPG|Harvested Coconuts. Some are already husked. Ready to be split and baked.
File:Coconut fruit.jpg|Husked Coconut
File:Coco split01.jpg|Split Coconut
File:Coconut dwarf.JPG|Dwarf coconut grove
</gallery>
===Coconut trunk===
The coconut trunk can be used for lumber. In most of the countries where coconut trees are grown, the coconut tree is protected by the government due to rampant harvesting even of young coconut trees for coco lumber. The coconut tree can live to over 60 years. The coconut trunk narrows as it towers to the sky and close to 100 feet tall. The older the coconut tree, the better it is for lumber. The old coconut trunk can be so tough that a 4" nail would bend as it is hammered in. The softest part of the coconut trunk is the middle since it is the newest growth or part of the tree. The coconut trunk gets harder and tougher as it moves away from the center. The hardest part of the coconut trunk is the part immediately under the coconut tree skin because it is the oldest part of the coconut tree.
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{| border="0" width=300  
{| border="0" width=300  
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|align="center"|[[Image:Coco pandak.jpg|300px]]<br>Coconut Pandak 4years old
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|align="center"|[[File:Coco Pandak 1.jpg|300px]]<br>Dwarf Coconut 4 years old
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|align="center"|[[File:Copra.JPG|300px]]<br>Harvested Coconuts. Some are already husked. Ready to be split and baked.
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|align="center"|[[File:Coconut fruit.jpg|300px]]<br>Husked Coconut
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|align="center"|[[File:Coco split01.jpg|300px]]<br>Split Coconut
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|align="center"|[[File:Coconut dwarf.JPG|300px]]<br>Dwarf coconut grove
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</div>
<font size=4>'''Coconut The Giving Tree'''</font><br>
by [[Maletsky, Franklin Harry|Franklin H. Maletsky]]
==Coconut tree==
The common names for the coconut are coconut palm, coco palm, and of course the coconut tree. The scientific name is cocos nucifera. The scientific name cocos nucifera was derived from the Portuguese language. Cocos is Portuguese for monkey, in reference to the face that appears on the stripped nut. Nucifera means nut bearing.  The coconut tree is an ever giving tree. Almost every part of the coconut tree is useful. The Coconut Palm or coconut tree (Cocos nucifera) is the only species in the cocos family that grows to 30 meters or almost 100 feet tall. The term coconut refers to the fruit of the coconut palm or coconut tree.


==Coconut trunk==
===Coconut sap===
The coconut trunk can be used for lumber. In most of the countries where coconut trees are grown, the coconut tree is protected by the government due to rampant harvesting even of young coconut trees for coco lumber. The coconut tree can live to over 60 years. The coconut trunk narrows as it towers to the sky and close to 100 feet tall. The older the coconut tree, the better it is for lumber. The old coconut trunk can be so tough that a 4" nail would bend as it is hammered in. The softest part of the coconut trunk is the middle since it is the newest growth or part of the tree. The coconut trunk gets harder and tougher as it moves away from the center. The hardest part of the coconut trunk is the part immediately under the coconut tree skin because it is the oldest part of the coconut tree.
 
==Coconut sap==
The coconut sap is used to produce coconut wine, coconut vinegar and coconut gel. The sap of the coconut is gathered from the unopened coconut bud. The coconut bud is cylindrical in shape that tapers at the top and bottom (like a torpedo). The tip of the bud is cut with a sharp blade before it opens to flower. The coconut bud is then secured with strings around it from the top to bottom so that it may not open and flower. A container is then positioned to receive the dripping coconut sap from the cut bud. The sap is collected daily and the bud is cut again or "bled". The cut is usually about an eighth of an inch per day. A mature coconut tree can yield up to a gallon of sap daily. Some people like to drink the coconut sap fresh from the coconut tree. Others prefer to drink it after it ferments for a few hours thereby raising the alcoholic content of the sap. When this coconut sap is distilled it can produce about 96 proof coconut wine.
The coconut sap is used to produce coconut wine, coconut vinegar and coconut gel. The sap of the coconut is gathered from the unopened coconut bud. The coconut bud is cylindrical in shape that tapers at the top and bottom (like a torpedo). The tip of the bud is cut with a sharp blade before it opens to flower. The coconut bud is then secured with strings around it from the top to bottom so that it may not open and flower. A container is then positioned to receive the dripping coconut sap from the cut bud. The sap is collected daily and the bud is cut again or "bled". The cut is usually about an eighth of an inch per day. A mature coconut tree can yield up to a gallon of sap daily. Some people like to drink the coconut sap fresh from the coconut tree. Others prefer to drink it after it ferments for a few hours thereby raising the alcoholic content of the sap. When this coconut sap is distilled it can produce about 96 proof coconut wine.


==Coconut leaves==
===Coconut leaves===
The coconut leaf is used for several things. firewood, broom, thatch roof, baskets, and other containers.
The coconut leaf is used for several things. firewood, broom, thatch roof, baskets, and other containers.


==Coconut fruit==
===Coconut fruit===
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
!colspan="6"|From the coconut fruit derives the:
!colspan="6"|From the coconut fruit derives the:
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==Coconut Meat==
===Coconut Meat===
The most common product of the coconut meat is coconut oil. There are three ways of making coconut oil; one is  RBD (Refined, Bleached & Deodorized),  home cooking, cold pressed. The RBD oil  is produced (by large factories) from copra (dried coconut meat). Making copra is accomplished by drying the meat either by sun or by fire. Home cooking is accomplished by grating the coconut meat, squeezing the juice out of it, then cooking the juice in a pan over an open fire. Cold pressed is where VCO (virgin coconut oil) comes from. This method can be home made or commercialized by big factories.
The most common product of the coconut meat is coconut oil. There are three ways of making coconut oil; one is  RBD (Refined, Bleached & Deodorized),  home cooking, cold pressed. The RBD oil  is produced (by large factories) from copra (dried coconut meat). Making copra is accomplished by drying the meat either by sun or by fire. Home cooking is accomplished by grating the coconut meat, squeezing the juice out of it, then cooking the juice in a pan over an open fire. Cold pressed is where VCO (virgin coconut oil) comes from. This method can be home made or commercialized by big factories.
===Virgin Coconut Oil===
===Virgin Coconut Oil===
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*[[Coconut#Virgin_Coconut_oil_the_best_antidote_against_obesity_and_diabetes|Reade more about VCO >>>>]]
*[[Coconut#Virgin_Coconut_oil_the_best_antidote_against_obesity_and_diabetes|Reade more about VCO >>>>]]


==Coconut shell==
===Coconut Water===
Coconut water is claimed to be medicinal. One thing for sure it is clear of any bacteria. It can be used as the sterile water for most powdered medicine for injection.
 
Coconut water when mixed with hot water is supposed to turn the regular water alkaline and therefore a "cancer cell" killer. I have no scientific proof to this but there is absolute no side effects for this kind of use. Only good can come out of it.
 
===Coconut shell===
Used for ornamental products and charcoal. Used as a piggybank. <br>
Used for ornamental products and charcoal. Used as a piggybank. <br>
Used as a bowl: When the coconut is split in half, with the "eyes" facing up or down, the other half without the "eyes" can be used a bowl. The bottom of this half shell is not flat so it leans to the side. In order to use the half coconut shell as a serving bowl a base must be made. The base is usually made out of any piece of wood (4"x4"x2"). The center of this base is carved out, so there is a hole in a form of a circle in this base. The coconut bowl is then placed in this hole of the base. It is a perfect fit. The hot soup in the bowl won't spill as it passed around the table.
Used as a bowl: When the coconut is split in half, with the "eyes" facing up or down, the other half without the "eyes" can be used a bowl. The bottom of this half shell is not flat so it leans to the side. In order to use the half coconut shell as a serving bowl a base must be made. The base is usually made out of any piece of wood (4"x4"x2"). The center of this base is carved out, so there is a hole in a form of a circle in this base. The coconut bowl is then placed in this hole of the base. It is a perfect fit. The hot soup in the bowl won't spill as it passed around the table.
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==Coconut flowers==
===Coconut flowers===
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==Coconut Husks==
===Coconut Husks===
The husk is the outer layer of the coconut. The coconut husk surrounds the coconut shell. The skin of the coconut husk is very smooth.
The husk is the outer layer of the coconut. The coconut husk surrounds the coconut shell. The skin of the coconut husk is very smooth.


==Coconut  Coir==
===Coconut  Coir===
The fiber between the outer shell and the skin of the husk is called the coir. Coir is twisted and prepared to be made into rope. The coconut coir is used for flower pots, filters, seat cushions, and other creative things.
The fiber between the outer shell and the skin of the husk is called the coir. Coir is twisted and prepared to be made into rope. The coconut coir is used for flower pots, filters, seat cushions, and other creative things.
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==Coconut root==
===Coconut root===
The coconut tree does not have a tap (prime) root. The root system of the coconut tree is fibrous.
The coconut tree does not have a tap (prime) root. The root system of the coconut tree is fibrous.
The coconut root is about 1/3 of an inch thick. Used as medicinal concoction for stomach aches
The coconut root is about 1/3 of an inch thick. Used as medicinal concoction for stomach aches
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:I remember using the root also as toothbrush. Get a root and fray it. Usually available only from coconuts with partially exposed root system.
:I remember using the root also as toothbrush. Get a root and fray it. Usually available only from coconuts with partially exposed root system.


==Coconut "Blanket"==
===Coconut "Blanket"===
<div style="float:left; width:;">
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[[File:Coconut Blanket.jpg|150px]]
[[File:Coconut Blanket.jpg|150px]]
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==News About Coconut==
==News About Coconut==
'''Here's how coconut oil can accelerate your weight loss plan'''
*Source:https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/weight-loss/heres-how-coconut-oil-can-accelerate-your-weight-loss-plan/articleshow/62695233.cms
:(TNN)
Not just one but many studies say that adding coconut oil to your diet can help you lose weight and specifically, that stubborn belly fat. The combination of fatty acids in coconut oil have a powerful effect on your metabolism. In fact, coconut oil is said to be the world's most weight loss friendly fat. The benefits do not end here as there are many reasons why coconut oil is the best oil for weight loss.
:It boosts metabolism
The fats in coconut oil vastly differ from fats in other food items. The difference is that most foods contain long-chain fatty acids whereas coconut oil has medium chains fatty acids. These medium chain fats are sent straight to the liver where either they are turned into ketone bodies or used for energy right away. According to an animal study, these medium chain fats are stored less efficiently than other fats. In another animal study, a group of rats were fed with medium chain fats and another group was fed with long-chain fats. The results were that the rats that were fed with medium chain fats gained 20 per cent less weight and 23 per cent less body fat than the rats fed on long-chain fats.
:It helps you burn calories while at rest
Another important property of coconut oil is its thermogenic nature. Eating it increases energy expenditure as compared to the same number of calories coming from any other source. According to a recent study taking 15-30 grams of coconut oil (medium chain fats) per day increased the burning of fat by 5 per cent which is 120 calories per day. Calories coming from coconut oil are different than calories coming from butter or olive oil though these are healthy too.
:Coconut oil can reduce weight
We all know the first thing that we need to do to lose weight is creating a calorie deficit. Calorie deficit means burning more calories than what you intake. The medium chain fatty acids in coconut oil give you a feeling of fullness more than the same number of calories coming from other fats. A study where participants had high amount of medium chain fatty acid food consumed 256 fewer calories per day. Having medium chain fatty acid foods in a meal leads to less calorie intake in the subsequent meal.
:Calories
At the end of the day, calories are calories no matter from where they come. Coconut oil has 9 calories per gram, so adding coconut oil to your diet above what you are eating will only increase the number of calories. So what you can do is you can replace your cooking oil with coconut oil which will not only not balance the number of calories but will also provide you with healthy medium chain fats.
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'''Coconut Water Benefits: 6 Reasons to Add this Wonder Drink to Your Diet'''
*Source:http://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/coconut-water-benefits-6-reasons-to-add-this-wonder-drink-to-your-diet-1750835
:By Sarika Rana 
Tropical fruits are known to be healthy and delicious, out of which coconuts top the list. Not only it has numerous uses in our kitchen, but also otherwise. We all love to relish this versatile fruit in the form of oil, savoury, snacks and drink. Coconut water makes for a naturally refreshing drink that consists of easily digested carbohydrates in the form of sugar and electrolytes. This water is actually the juice present inside the endosperm, which is the interior cavity of the young and green coloured coconuts.
According to Bangalore-based Nutritionist Dr. Anju Sood, "Coconut water consists of various vitamins and minerals that help replenish the electrolytes in the body. It hydrates your body and keeps you fresh through the day."
According to the book Healing Foods by DK Publishing, a pure and perfect balance of electrolytes, coconut water was given intravenously to soldiers during the Second World War when regular IV saline solution would run out.
1. Aids in Weight Loss
For all those looking to lose weight can have coconut water, why? It is low in calories and easy on the stomach. It also consists of bio-active enzymes that aid digestion and boost fat metabolism. Drinking coconut water at least 3-4 times a day may help in losing those extra kilos.
2. An Ingenious Alternative to Sports Drinks
As per the book Healing Foods, hydrating coconut water from the immature fruit is a superior drink for restoring electrolyte balance during and after sports. You can easily drink before and after playing any sport to stay fresh. The excess amount of potassium present in it also makes it better than any sports drink.
3. Facilitates Digestion
Due to the presence of bio-active compounds and its high concentration of fiber, it aids indigestion and reduces the occurrence of acid reflux. The moment you feel bloated or face acidity, gulp down a glass of coconut water to reduce the burning sensation.
4. Boosts Hydration
Its hydrating properties helps keep the body full of required fluids. It is refreshing as well as has a slightly sweet and nutty flavour that you would not want to miss. It is also due to the electrolyte composition that keeps the body rehydrated.
5. Lowers Blood pressure
Thanks to the presence of vitamin C, magnesium and potassium content, coconut water makes for a great drink that helps reduce blood pressure levels. Drinking a glass of coconut water daily may actually help get the desired results. According to the study published in the journal West Indian Medical in the year 2005, coconut water helps control hypertension.
6. A Perfect Remedy for Hangover
If you have been drinking all night, keep coconut water handy as it makes for an amazing hangover remedy. It replenishes the electrolytes in the body and boosts hydration along with preventing from vomiting and headache. The antioxidants in coconut water combat oxidative stress caused by too much alcohol.
Go ahead and enjoy some wonderful coconut water and keep yourself healthy and hearty!
----
'''The Health Benefits of Coconut Milk'''
*Source:http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/health-benefits-coconut-milk-2031.html
:By Tanya Brown
Coconut milk is a creamy, rich liquid made from the meat of mature coconuts. It is a popular beverage in the Philippines, the Caribbean and anyplace where coconut trees are abundant. Coconut milk has the scent of a coconut and a slightly sweet taste. It is an excellent substitute for cow’s milk because it is easy to digest, simple to make and contains an abundance of nutrients. You can drink it plain, use it for cooking or blend it with smoothies to benefit from its nutritional value.
:Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins C, E and many B vitamins are abundant in coconut milk. Vitamins C and E help to boost the immune system, and B vitamins are responsible for providing energy to the cells. Coconut milk is also rich in magnesium, potassium, phosphorous and iron. Magnesium is responsible for many biochemical functions in the body, including regulating the heart’s rhythm and supporting the function of nerve cells. Potassium maintains the tissues of the heart, kidneys, brain and muscles. Phosphorus keeps teeth and bones strong, and iron creates red blood cells and carries oxygen throughout your body. Add coconut milk to your cereal and baked goods, or drink a glass or two each day to receive these benefits.
:Antioxidants
"Ceylon Medical Journal" notes that coconut milk is rich in antioxidants, which prevents free radical damage. Free radicals are associated with the development of many diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease and age-related dementia. Antioxidants can help reverse previous damage and delay the aging process. Drink a glass of coconut milk while eating other antioxidant-rich foods, such as pecans, raisins and cranberries. Energy-producing snacks that are rich in antioxidants will boost your immunity while rebuilding the damaged cells in your body.
:Lauric Acid
Coconut milk is rich in lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid that is abundant in mother’s milk. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, lauric acid has many germ-fighting, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties that are very effective at ridding the body of viruses, bacteria and countless illnesses. Lauric acid may also reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which lowers heart disease and stroke risks. There are only a few foods that are rich in lauric acid, so drink coconut milk regularly to benefit from this nutrient.
:Heart Disease
According to "Ceylon Medical Journal," coconut fats do not contain trans-fatty acids. The fats that are present in coconuts are less likely to clog arteries, which makes coconut milk a healthy alternative to cow’s milk when it comes to preserving your heart’s health. Coconut meat contains monoglycerides, which the body absorbs and uses as energy shortly after it is consumed. Because the body does not store coconut fats, there is less chance that your arteries or blood vessels will clog, which lowers your risk of heart disease.
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'''Why is coconut good for you?'''
*Source:http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/nutrition/health-foods-az/why-is-coconut-good-for-you-/news-story/006efedb09e7b27f51f0a8a13dfe49ab
:(Body And Soul)
Coconut is full of diverse health benefits from protecting against heart diseases to preventing tooth decay!
Some experts believe coconut can do the following for our health:
:• Protect against heart disease by increasing good cholesterol and lowering the ratio of bad and good cholesterol.
:• Helps treat malnutrition because it is easy to digest and absorb.
:• Kills disease-causing bacteria, fungi, yeasts and viruses because of the
:• antimicrobial effects of its fatty acids.
:• Helps diabetics by slowing sugar release into the bloodstream.
:• Prevents strokes and brain disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
:• Boosts metabolism and increases energy because it is more likely to be burned as fuel than stored as body fat.
:• Prevent tooth decay - coconut oil fights bacteria responsible for tooth decay and could be a healthy, non-chemical additive in toothpaste and mouthwash, Irish research suggests. Scientists found that when the oil was treated with digestive enzymes it became a powerful killer of mouth bugs that can lead to dental caries.
:The cons:
While protection against heart disease is one of the claimed benefits of coconut oil, the Heart Foundation strongly recommends avoiding it. "Coconut oil, milk and cream are all high in unhealthy saturated fat, which raises bad cholesterol levels, clogs the arteries and increases the risk of heart disease," says Barbara Eden, the Heart Foundation's senior manager of food supply. "Our recommendations are based on good-quality scientific evidence and don't recommend eating foods high in saturated fat. There are many healthier oils that don't raise cholesterol levels or increase the risk of heart disease." DAA spokeswoman Tania Ferraretto agrees and says the evidence of any health benefits from coconut oil is inconclusive.
:How much coconut oil?
The Coconut Research Center's Dr Bruce Fife recommends one to three tablespoons of coconut oil a day for health maintenance. It can be used for frying and baking or it can be added to foods such as popcorn instead of butter.
:At a glance
Coconut meat (raw): The super high-fibre content acts like a probiotic, feeding the good bacteria in the intestines and keeping you regular.
:• Fresh coconut juice: Rich in electrolytes, it aids in hydration, providing minerals essential for bodily functions such as movement and brain function.
:• Coconut oil (from the meat): Said to have numerous benefi ts, from protecting against heart disease to helping with weight management.
:• Coconut cream/milk: High in lauric acid, it may boost your immune system and protect against viral and bacterial infections.
----
'''Crazy for Coconuts: 5 Healthy Ways to Enjoy Coconut'''
*Source:http://www.shape.com/latest-news-trends/crazy-coconuts-5-healthy-ways-enjoy-coconut
:By Cynthia Sass (MPH, RD)
Coconut products are flooding the market – first there was coconut water, now there's coconut milk, coconut milk yogurt, coconut kefir and coconut milk ice cream.  This decadent nut used to be considered a major nutritional no-no but it now enjoys a serious health halo and is touted for weight loss benefits. Is this tropical treat really all it’s cracked up to be? Here’s my take on five popular products:


:Coconut Water

Coconut water is the clear liquid that pools inside whole green coconuts. It’s different from coconut milk, which is pressed from the fatty “meat” of the fruit. An 11 oz serving of pure coconut water contains about 60 calories, no fat, a gram of protein and 15 grams of carbohydrates. It’s often promoted as nature’s sports drink because it’s rich in the electrolyte potassium (lost in sweat), and packs twice as much as a banana. It’s not linked to weight control, but a recent study found that coconut water was just as effective as a statin drug for lowering cholesterol in rats, and numerous studies have pegged potassium as a key nutrient for controlling blood pressure. 

Verdict: Try it either during or after exercise. Just remember that though it’s not very sweet, one serving does contain 60 calories, so even though it’s called water, it’s not calorie free. You can sip it as is or blend some into a smoothie.


:Coconut Oil

For weight loss, pure coconut oil, not water, is where the research lies. Several studies have found that coconut oil may aid weight loss because the type of fat it contains, called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), are metabolized differently than fats from other oils. Most of the fat in this delicious oil is saturated, but more and more research confirms that not all saturated fats are villains. Coconut oil can actually raise your “good” HDL cholesterol and provide antioxidants similar to those in berries, grapes and dark chocolate.
Verdict: Try it. I use it myself and recommend it, but keep it occasional and go easy – it still contains 120 calories and 14 g of fat per Tbsp. Look for it in the natural section of your supermarket. It’s a perfect alternative to butter in baked goods, it’s one of the secret ingredients in my dark chocolate truffle recipes in my new book, and it’s my go-to oil for pan-searing – major yum. 


:Coconut Milk (from the dairy case)
Coconut milk includes some of the “good” coconut fat – 66 percent of the fat comes from MCTs, and while the unsweetened is low in carbs (just 1 g per cup), it’s also low in protein (1 g vs. 8 in cow milk or soy milk) and calcium (10 percent of the daily value vs. 30 percent in cow milk or soy milk).
Verdict: If you decide to try it, buy unsweetened (vanilla has nearly double the calories) and don’t count it as a protein source. It’ll work in cereal, coffee or smoothies. 


:Coconut Kefir
Kefir, sometimes referred to as drinkable yogurt is fermented with “good” probiotic bacteria linked to better digestive health, immunity and possibly weight control. Coconut kefir contains live active cultures with the added benefit of its natural MCTs. 

Verdict: Try it. Compared to kefir from cultured cow’s milk, coconut kefir has just 70 calories per cup (vs. 160) and only 6 g of carbs, half of which come from dietary fiber (compared to 15 grams with the equivalent 3 g fiber from cow milk kefir). The only down side is less calcium – 10 percent of the DV vs. 30 percent. 
 

:Coconut Milk Ice Cream
There are a few brands of coconut milk ice cream on the market now. I compared the chocolate version of one brand side by side with a pint of premium ice cream and here’s what I found: the coconut provides about the same number of calories as well as the same number of total carb grams, but contains just 2 g of saturated fat vs. 11 in the cow’s milk ice cream - and 6 fewer grams of sugar.
Verdict: Try it, but stick to just a half cup. It’s very rich so you should feel satisfied with a small portion but you can pump up the volume with fresh berries or grilled fresh fruit like plums or pineapple. Again, the major downside is less calcium (0 percent DV per serving vs. 10 percent in ice cream).
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'''10 Impressive Health Benefits of Coconut Oil'''
*Source:http://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-coconut-oil
:By Kris Gunnars (BSc)
Coconut oil is one of the few foods that can be classified as a "superfood."
Its benefits include weight loss, better brain function, skin health and many more.
Here are 10 impressive health benefits of coconut oil.
1. Coconut Oil Contains Fatty Acids With Powerful Medicinal Properties
Coconut oil has been demonized in the past because it contains saturated fat.
In fact, coconut oil is one of the richest sources of saturated fat known to man, with almost 90% of the fatty acids in it being saturated.
However, new data is showing that saturated fats are mostly harmless. Many studies with hundreds of thousands of people have found no link to heart disease.
Additionally, coconut oil doesn't contain your average saturated fats, like the ones you would find in cheese or steak.
They contain Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) - which are fatty acids of a medium length.
Most of the fatty acids in the diet are long-chain fatty acids, but the medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil are metabolized differently.
They go straight to the liver from the digestive tract, where they are used as a quick source of energy or turned into so-called ketones, which can have therapeutic effects on brain disorders like epilepsy and Alzheimer's.
Bottom Line:Coconut oil contains a lot of medium chain triglycerides, which are metabolized differently and can have therapeutic effects on several brain disorders.
2. Populations That Eat a Lot of Coconut Oil Are Healthy
Coconut is an exotic food in the Western world, primarily consumed by health conscious people.
However, in some parts of the world, coconut is a dietary staple that people have thrived on for many generations.
The best example of such a population is the Tokelauans, which live in the South Pacific.
They eat over 60% of their calories from coconuts and are the biggest consumers of saturated fat in the world.
These people are in great health, with no evidence of heart disease.
Another example of a population that eats a lot of coconut and remains in excellent health is the Kitavans.
Bottom Line: Plenty of populations around the world have thrived for multiple generations eating massive amounts of coconut fat.
3. Coconut Oil Can Help You Burn More Fat
Obesity is currently one of the biggest health problems in the world.
While some people think obesity is only a matter of calories, others (myself included) believe that the sources of those calories are important too.
It is a fact that different foods affect our bodies and hormones in different ways. In this regard, a calorie is not a calorie.
The medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut oil can increase how many calories you burn compared to the same amount of other fats .
One study found that 15-30 grams of MCTs per day increased 24 hour energy expenditure by 5%, totalling about 120 calories per day.
Bottom Line: The medium chain triglycerides in coconut oil have been shown to increase calories burned over 24 hours by as much as 5%, potentially leading to significant weight loss over the long term.
4. Coconut Oil Can Kill Harmful Microorganisms
Almost 50% of the fatty acids in coconut oil is the 12-carbon Lauric Acid.
When lauric acid is digested, it forms a substance called monolaurin.
Both lauric acid and monolaurin can kill harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses and fungi.
For example, these substances have been shown to kill the bacteria Staphylococcus Aureus (a very dangerous pathogen) and the yeast Candida Albicans, a common source of yeast infections in humans.
Bottom Line: The fatty acids and breakdown products in coconut oil can kill harmful pathogens, potentially helping to prevent infections.
5. Coconut Oil Can Reduce Your Hunger, Helping You Eat Less
One interesting feature of coconut oil is that it can reduce your hunger.
This may be related to the way the fatty acids in it are metabolized, because ketones can have an appetite reducing effect.
In one study, varying amounts of medium and long chain triglycerides were fed to 6 healthy men.
The men eating the most MCTs ate 256 fewer calories per day, on average.
Another study in 14 healthy men discovered that those who ate the most MCTs at breakfast ate fewer calories at lunch.
These studies were small and only done for a short period of time. If this effect were to persist over the long term, it could have a dramatic influence on body weight over a period of several years.
Bottom Line: The fatty acids in coconut oil can significantly reduce appetite, which may positively affect body weight over the long term.
6. The Fatty Acids in Coconut Oil Are Turned into Ketones, Which Can Reduce Seizures
A so-called ketogenic (very low carb, very high fat) diet is currently being studied to treat various disorders.
The best known therapeutic application of this diet is treating drug-resistant epilepsy in children.
This diet involves eating very little carbohydrates and large amounts of fat, leading to greatly increased concentrations of ketones in the blood.
For some reason, this diet can dramatically reduce the rate of seizures in epileptic children, even those who haven't had success with multiple different types of drugs.
Because the MCTs in coconut oil get shipped to the liver and turned into ketones, they are often used in epileptic patients to induce ketosis while allowing for a bit more carbs in the diet.
Bottom Line:The MCTs in coconut oil can increase blood concentration of ketone bodies, which can help reduce seizures in epileptic children.
7. Coconut Oil Can Improve Blood Cholesterol Levels
Coconut oil contains healthy saturated fats.
The saturated fats in coconut oil may increase "good" HDL cholesterol in your body, but also help convert the "bad" LDL cholesterol into a less harmful form.
Coconut oil may also improve other risk factors and therefore protect against heart disease.
In one study in 40 women, coconut oil reduced Total and LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL compared to soybean oil.
There are also rat studies showing that coconut oil reduces triglycerides, total and LDL cholesterol, increases HDL and improves blood coagulation factors and antioxidant status.
Bottom Line: Studies in both humans and rats show that coconut oil improves important risk factors like Total, LDL and HDL cholesterol, which may translate to a reduced risk of heart disease.
8. Coconut Oil Can Protect Hair Against Damage, Moisturize Skin and Function as Sunscreen
Coconut oil can serve various purposes that have nothing to do with eating it.
Many people are using it for cosmetic purposes and to improve the health and appearance of their skin and hair.
Studies on individuals with dry skin show that coconut oil can improve the moisture and fat content of the skin.
Coconut oil can also be very protective against hair damage and one study shows effectiveness as sunscreen, blocking about 20% of the sun's ultraviolet rays (21, 22)
Another application is using it like mouthwash in a process called oil pulling, which can kill some of the harmful bacteria in the mouth, improve dental health and reduce bad breath.
Bottom Line: Coconut oil can be applied topically as well, studies showing it to be effective as a skin moisturizer and protecting against hair damage. It can also be used as a mild form of sunscreen and as mouthwash.
9. The Fatty Acids in Coconut Oil Can Boost Brain Function in Alzheimer's Patients
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia worldwide and occurs primarily in elderly individuals.
In Alzheimer's patients, there appears to be a reduced ability to use carbs for energy in certain parts of the brain.
Researchers have speculated that ketones can provide an alternative energy source for these malfunctioning brain cells and reduce symptoms of Alzheimer's.
In one 2006 study, consumption of medium chain triglycerides led to immediate improvement in brain function in patients with milder forms of Alzheimer's.
Other studies support these findings and medium chain triglycerides are being intensively studied as potential therapeutic agents in Alzheimer's disease.
Bottom Line: Studies show that the fatty acids in coconut oil can increase blood levels of ketones, supplying energy for the brain cells of Alzheimer's patients and relieving symptoms.
10. Coconut Oil Can Help You Lose Fat, Especially The Harmful Abdominal Fat
Given that coconut oil can reduce appetite and increase fat burning, it makes sense that it can also help you lose weight.
Coconut oil appears to be especially effective at reducing belly fat, which lodges in the abdominal cavity and around organs.
This is the most dangerous fat of all and is highly associated with many chronic diseases.
Waist circumference is easily measured and is a great marker for the amount of fat in the abdominal cavity.
In a study in 40 women with abdominal obesity, supplementing with 30 mL (2 tablespoons) of coconut oil per day led to a significant reduction in both BMI and waist circumference in a period of 12 weeks.
Another study in 20 obese males noted a reduction in waist circumference of 2.86 cm (1.1 inches) after 4 weeks of 30 mL (2 tablespoons) of coconut oil per day.
This number may not seem too impressive on the surface, but be aware that these people aren't adding exercise or restricting calories. They're losing significant amounts of belly fat simply by adding coconut oil to their diet.
:Not All Coconut Oil Is the Same
In order to enjoy the health benefits outlined in the article, then you must get organic, virgin coconut oil, not the refined stuff.
I personally cook almost everything I eat in coconut oil and my health has never been better.
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'''The health benefits of coconut'''
'''The health benefits of coconut'''
*Source:http://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-eats/healthy-eating/the-health-benefits-of-coconut/
*Source:http://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-eats/healthy-eating/the-health-benefits-of-coconut/
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Spit it into a tissue- (to avoid clogged drains). Be prepared, your toothbrush may turn yellow if brushing teeth afterwards. If teeth still look yellow rinse mouth with water, run the hot tap to ensure the coconut oil stays liquid through your drains! Keep in an airtight jar in your bathroom cupboard and use daily.
Spit it into a tissue- (to avoid clogged drains). Be prepared, your toothbrush may turn yellow if brushing teeth afterwards. If teeth still look yellow rinse mouth with water, run the hot tap to ensure the coconut oil stays liquid through your drains! Keep in an airtight jar in your bathroom cupboard and use daily.
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'''What are the health benefits of coconut oil?'''
'''What are the health benefits of coconut oil?'''
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