1. Highly Nutritious

Coconuts are not only good for pina coladas they also contain protein, several important minerals, and small amounts of B vitamins. The minerals in coconut are involved in many functions in your body. Coconuts are especially high in manganese, which is essential for bone health and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol and they’re also rich in copper and iron, which help form red blood cells, as well as selenium, an important antioxidant that protects your cells.

2. Reduce stubborn belly fat

Consuming virgin coconut oil, which is extracted from dried coconut meat, may reduce belly fat. This is especially beneficial because excess belly fat increases your risk of heart disease and diabetes. A study in 20 people with obesity found the waist size of male participants decreased by an average of about 1 inch (about 3 cm) after they consumed 1 ounce (30 ml) of virgin coconut oil daily for 4 weeks. The female participants did not experience a significant reduction. However, in one longer study, women who consumed 1 ounce (30 ml) of refined coconut oil daily for 12 weeks experienced a reduction of 0.5 inches (1.4 cm) from their waist measurement, on average.

3. Can help with blood sugar control

Coconut is low in carbs and high in fiber and fat, so it may help stabilize your blood sugar. In a recent study on mice with diabetes they were fed protein made from coconut meat, their blood sugar, insulin levels and other glucose metabolism markers were much better than mice that didn’t eat the coconut protein. The high fiber content of coconut meat can also help slow digestion and improve insulin resistance, which can help regulate blood sugar levels as well

4. Contain powerful antioxidants

Coconut meat contains phenolic compounds, which are antioxidants that may help protect cells from oxidative damage. The main phenolic compounds identified include gallic acid, caffeic acid, salicylic acid, p-coumaric acid. Lab tests on coconut meat have shown that it has antioxidant and free-radical-scavenging activity. Test-tube and animal studies have also shown that antioxidants found in coconut oil may help protect cells from damage and death caused by oxidative stress and chemotherapy

5. Super easy to add to any diet

Flaked or shaved, coconut adds a nice flavor to savory dishes. Its meaty texture and flavor work well in curries, fish stews, rice dishes, or even on breaded shrimp. Be aware that some brands contain added sugar, which you may not want for savory dishes, be sure to check the ingredient label. Coconut flour is used in baking as a substitute for wheat flour. It’s gluten-free, nut-free, and a popular option for anyone who’s counting carbs. However, coconut flour is best used in recipes that have been tested, as it won’t rise like wheat flour and absorbs more liquid than other types of flour. Additionally, coconut oil is a delicious heat-stable fat that can be used in baking, sautéing, or roasting.

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