I’ve got a lovely bunch of coconut diddly dee and they are tired of people talking smack about them.

Coconuts and all of their lovely products are always under a magnifying glass; they are admired or being burned, people seem to love or hate coconuts. Many people are also misinformed about coconuts, with everything in life there are always many different views or facts produced. Coconuts have been used for centuries for their medicinal use with a diverse list of uses.

One of the big things I typically overhear in the grocery store, the gym and so on is, “Aren’t you worried about the fat in coconuts? Sodium? I heard coconut water is a hoax.” It’s hard for me to keep my mouth shut and continue doing my thing. But here is a space where I can fully unload my thoughts, knowledge, and love for coconuts.

So let’s start from the beginning and clear coconuts from their bad wrap 🙂

Coconuts can be made into many different substances from liquids like coconut milk, coconut water, coconut oil and solids like coconut butter, meat and flakes. Coconuts are highly rich in fiber, MCFAs or medium-chain fatty acid (55%-65% of it’s content roughly) and it has a long history, that no joke easily exceeds over 50 uses with positive results.

MCFAs? Isn’t that a college? What are you talking about?

MCFAs (medium-chain fatty acids) also called MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides) fight against weight gain because our bodies can easily “burn” off this type of fat. Instead of the fat being stored in those unkind, unattractive spots like the thighs, hips and belly our body uses MCFAs quickly for energy. Even though they are used quickly and do not get stored away, they still help us feel full. It’s a beautiful relationship ❤

Now please do no think I just told you to go off to the store and buy a case of Almond Joys because it doesn’t work that way. Plus you will feel like poop afterwards and I honestly refuse to feel bad for you. Pure coconuts have these health benefits like coconut juice, water, virgin oil/butter and fresh coconuts.

Unlike what I hear in the gym coconuts/MCFAs do not have a negative effect on cholesterol and instead they help protect against heart disease.

Coconut water as a sports drink.

Over the years more and more people are becoming aware of coconut water as a wonderful source of electrolytes and potassium. Some seem to believe this is a new drink…I’m not saying this to pick on people, but just to prove how much there is to learn about coconuts and coconut water.

Coconut water contains 5 essential electrolytes and fifteen times more potassium than any sports drink. The five electrolytes are: potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus. Sodium? Indeed loves, sodium helps keep water in, in small amount it is actually needed in our bodies. Coconut water is high in lauric acid; which helps alleviate stomach cramps and pain, I think these are all reasons why coconut water has a reputation of being a hangover cure 😉

Coconuts are low in calories, have antiviral properties, increase circulation (more oxygen equals cleaner blood), and help your body rehydrate, retain fluid, keep body temperature down and prevents cramping & headaches (essential electrolytes and boost in circulation).

Now it’s time to fill your cart with some coconut products!

You can find whole coconuts at most grocery stores.

Coconuts flakes (easier to find) are great for desserts, smoothies, homemade granola, energy bars, garnish, and froathy drinks.

Coconut condiments. Yes, and they are fantastic! I personally use Coconut Vinegar, Coconut Aminos and Coconut Nectar all by Coconut Secret. Coconut Secret also makes coconut flour, bars and crystals 🙂 This may be found at your local organic or all natural shop.

Coconut oil & butter. It’s amazing how easy it is to find cold pressed, organic and fair trade coconut oil. With the condiments, juices and water I feel like this is the right way to go. Of course this is completely up to you though! I usually use those guides lines. I currently have Dr. Bronner’s Coconut Oil in the house 😉 These products are great in desserts, smoothies, cooking, sauteing, baking, marinades, dressings, soups and to even put on your hair, skin, cuticles & remove make-up.

*When buying coconut oil please make sure it is edible! Some are not meant to be orally consumed, please be careful. It should let you know on the front of the product.*

My favorite brand of coconut water is Harmless Harvest. I thought this was a WholeFoods exclusive product but it looks like I wasn’t doing a good job keeping up with the growth of this company! On Harmless Harvests website there is a store locator link where you can find this delicious product.Their coconut water is sweet, pure and unlike most coconut waters my mouth does not feel dry afterwards. I use this coconut water frequently in smoothies or drink it straight up after soaking up a lot of sun or breaking a mighty sweat in yoga. ❤

HEY, talk about those health benefits… please?

Coconuts support thyroid function, dissolve kidney stones, reduces symptoms associated with psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis, helps control dandruff, helps prevent liver disease, reduces inflammation, improves digestion and healthy bowel function, relieves stress on pancreas, helps protect against osteoporosis, relieves symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and stomach ulcers…just to name a few!

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