The mere memory of a coconut gives rise to wonderful and pleasant associations. White beaches, azure seas and, of course, tall green palm trees come to mind. However, the modern rhythm of life allows you to eat this fruit not only on the islands. Today it can be easily found in large supermarkets. This is a good incentive to start using coconut for weight loss.
Residents of Asian countries regularly consume this fruit. Which is not surprising, because it contains many minerals and elements that have a positive effect on health and figure. It can be seen that obesity and weight problems are not common in Asia. And all because both men and women revere and actively use the gifts of nature, such as coconut, for food.
Tropical treasure of beauty
Grown under the bright rays of the sun, the coconut is a hard ball filled with sweet water. The benefits are hidden both in its pulp and in milk.
- vitamins of groups B, C, E, H;
- cellulose;
- calcium, phosphorus, iodine;
- potassium, iron, copper;
- beneficial acids.
However, the main component that helps to lose weight and look young is lauric acid. It stimulates fat burning, improves digestion and dulls appetite. Together, this gives impetus to active weight loss.
In addition, being a fairly satisfying product (due to fiber), coconut does not add extra pounds. The fats that make up the pulp and milk are converted into pure energy, without having time to gain a foothold in the body. For this quality, coconut oil is recommended for use on a keto diet.
The combination of the beneficial properties of the fruit also has a good effect on the appearance: the skin becomes even, the hair is shiny, the nails are healthy.
The nutritional value
The benefits of coconut for weight loss cannot be underestimated. The key feature of the fruit is in the fats it contains. Dissolving, they turn into special substances that break down the fat layer.
It is due to the high level of healthy fats that the calorie content of coconut is also not low. There are 355 kcal per 100 g of pulp. And milk in the same volume is calculated at only 19 kcal.
Pay attention to these numbers only when calculating the calorie content of your menu. Otherwise, they do not threaten weight loss.
Health impact
The main contraindications to the use of coconut for weight loss are allergies and obesity.
But for people with gastrointestinal diseases, the fruit will be useful, as it normalizes digestion. Coconut also has a positive effect on the health of a pregnant or lactating woman. In addition, pulp and milk strengthen the heart muscle and blood vessels.
Diet from the Sunny Islands
The coconut diet is gaining more and more popularity and is becoming the favorite of many women. Thanks to the different delivery options, main product doesn't get bored. And for the pleasant taste and visible effect of losing weight, coconut is increasingly taking root in the menu of modern thin people.
The main benefits of the diet:
- no constant feeling of hunger;
- there are no strict restrictions in the diet;
- delicious menu;
- fast and high-quality weight loss;
- stable supply of energy;
- body cleansing.
Eating fruit, according to the rules of the diet, you can not worry about feeling unwell, tired and weak. Everything is just the opposite, because it gives a charge of positive mood and strength.
Coconut is allowed to be used on other diets. For example, in the Dukan method for weight loss, there is also a place for this fruit.
Where and how to choose a fruit
Undoubtedly, it is best to eat coconut somewhere on the islands in the Pacific Ocean. There you can not worry about its naturalness and usefulness for weight loss.
But we live in the 21st century, where people in the northern latitudes indulge themselves with exotic products. Today, a whole coconut can be ordered from many online supermarkets for home delivery.
How to understand that the fruit is tasty and healthy:
- by weight - a ripe coconut is heavy;
- by sound - when shaken, you can hear that there is milk inside;
- on the shell - the surface is without damage and cracks, without mold and other defects;
- according to the "eyes" - on one side of the coconut there are 3 dark circles;
- by dryness - the fruit must be dry.
However, coconut is a very capricious fruit, and even with apparent ripeness, its flesh can be affected or spoiled. Try to buy fruit from trusted suppliers, this will reduce the risk of an unsuccessful purchase.
Coconut meat, shavings and milk are easy to find in a large grocery store ready to eat.
Weight loss rules
Coconut weight loss promises high-quality weight loss. This means that the lost kilograms (subject to a healthy diet) will not return.
The basic principles of the diet:
- drink enough liquid (1.5-2 liters);
- exclude fatty, fried and smoked foods, sweets, muffins from the menu;
- eat 4 times a day;
- do not exceed the daily volume - 1200 kcal .;
- engage in physical activity.
On a diet, you can eat both fresh and dried coconut. The second is usually sold in the form of candied fruits. Their calorie content is quite high - about 660 kcal. per 100 g. But do not be afraid. To satisfy your hunger, you need only 3-5 cubes, and their calorie content is much less.
Following the main rules, you will help the body break down body fat, remove toxins and strengthen the immune system.
Important information
Doctors recommend abandoning the coconut diet for serious health problems. After all, the sharp appearance of a large amount of this fruit on the menu leads to an increase in cholesterol, and as a result, to the occurrence of heart pathologies.
To avoid this, you should adhere to all the rules of the methodology and not abuse the main product.
Coconut Diet Options
We offer you 4 ways to achieve harmony. They differ in the supply of the main product and duration.
In any case, choosing this or that technique, you will benefit the body and lose a few extra pounds.
Fasting day
This method of losing weight is based on the use of pure coconut pulp. It saturates well, so hunger on such a diet is not felt.
The essence of unloading:
- The menu consists of grated pulp and unsweetened herbal or green tea.
- The entire volume of the coconut product should be divided into 4-5 equal portions and eat them throughout the day.
- The interval between doses is at least 3 hours.
On average, you can lose 1.5-3 kg per day of coconut unloading.
Menu for 4 days
The most popular weight loss option is the 4-day diet. Here all coconut parts are used - pulp and milk. Therefore, for the period of weight loss, 4 fruits will be enough for you.
Due to the fact that the pulp of the fruit is difficult to chew, the digestive tract has to secrete more gastric juice. This leads to the proper oxidation of food and its processing.
In addition to coconut, the diet includes such light foods as cottage cheese, tea, buckwheat or rice. Cereals can be replaced at your discretion, but make sure that they are dietary.
For 4 days really get rid of 4-6 extra pounds. So, the menu of the 4-day coconut diet:
| Day 1 |
Breakfast | 2 tbsp. l. buckwheat, then ½ coconut fruit (pulp + milk). |
| Dinner | 100 g low-fat cottage cheese (0-5%), a mug of herbal tea without sugar. | |
| Dinner | ½ bowl of buckwheat, then the remaining coconut. | |
| Day 2 |
Breakfast | 2 tbsp. l. boiled unsalted white rice, then ½ coconut fruit (pulp + milk). |
| Dinner | 150 g. dietary cottage cheese(you can add 1 tsp of honey). | |
| Dinner | 2 tbsp. l. rice and leftover coconut. | |
| Day 3 |
Breakfast | 3 art. l. any dietary cereal and half a coconut. |
| Dinner | 2 cups of herbal unsweetened tea. | |
| Dinner | 2 tbsp. l. cereals, then ½ coconut fruit (pulp + milk), 40 g low-fat cottage cheese. | |
| Day 4 |
Breakfast | 2 tbsp. l. unsalted rice, then ½ coconut (pulp + milk). |
| Dinner | The second half of the fetus. | |
| Dinner | 100 g of dietary cottage cheese. |
Spend all meals slowly and measuredly. Let your stomach rest after each serving.
If you can't use the whole fruit, purchase the ingredients separately. Make sure that coconut milk in a diet does not exceed 2 cups daily in volume.
Many prolong such a diet up to 7 days.
Weight loss in 4 weeks
A long-term option for those who want to gradually move to proper nutrition. The idea of a diet is to exclude all fats from the diet: both animal and vegetable.
The menu is divided into stages:
- 1 Week . It is strictly forbidden to eat sweets, sugar, cereals, pastries, fruits. The menu consists of protein products, vegetables.
- 2 weeks. The diet consists of liquid soups, vegetable and fruit juices, smoothies, dairy products.
- 3 weeks. A great time to introduce non-starchy vegetables (all green vegetables, bell pepper), fruits, dietary cereals.
- Week 4 includes all system products. Simple carbohydrates, alcohol, hearty fruits are still prohibited.
Every meal should start with a tablespoon of coconut oil. They also replace all fats. The product can be added to salads, vegetables are baked with it, etc.
Daily calorie content does not exceed 1200 kcal. Carefully select products, because the calorie content of coconut oil in 100 g is 860 kcal.
coconut water diet
A good option to lose weight if you are in the Southern countries. There, the fruits are sold, as they say, directly from the palm tree. And coconut water is not a concern.
Do not confuse liquid with commercial coconut milk. Natural juice does not have that heavenly taste familiar to us. This is plain, slightly sweet water.
Weight loss comes down to 3 rules:
- Drink a glass of juice before every meal.
- Eliminate fatty, fried, smoked and other unhealthy foods.
- Exercise regularly.
Due nutritional properties, coconut water moisturizes the body well: it lubricates the joints, saturates the muscles and skin.
The low calorie content of the juice allows you to actively use it for weight loss. However, remember, we are talking about natural water.
coconut wrap
In addition to using coconut internally, it can be effectively used externally as well. Wrapping with coconut oil is a great way to restore skin elasticity, firmness and healthy appearance. In addition, the procedure eliminates the "orange peel" and stretch marks.
However, there are cases when wrapping can be harmful:
- with an allergic reaction to oil;
- with irritation and skin diseases;
- at elevated body temperature.
To have a pleasant and healthy treatment at home, you will need coconut and olive (or other moisturizing) oils, a scrub, cling film, warm clothes and a blanket.
Carrying out algorithm:
- To begin with, the skin must be steamed and cleansed. To do this, take a bath and treat problem areas with a scrub.
- Pat your skin dry with a towel, and gently massage in coconut oil.
- Wrap the place of application with a film and dress warmly. For a visible result, you need to create a thermal effect.
- Since this wrapping option is not extreme, it is allowed to keep it for 30-40 minutes. Focus on your well-being.
- After removing the film, blot the affected area with a paper towel. It is not necessary to take a shower again.
Before using the oil for wrapping, it is recommended to warm it up slightly. In addition, natural coconut ether tends to solidify in a cool temperature.
The beneficial properties of coconut have been known since ancient times.
Coconut came to our country from Indonesia, Brazil, Sri Lanka and other warm countries.
Coconut is a drupe consisting of pulp and liquid.
The name of the coconut in Portuguese means "monkey". The Portuguese named this fruit so because the three spots on the surface of the coconut resemble the muzzle of a monkey.
But why does coconut remain without much attention on the shelves of Russian counters? Are there many benefits of eating coconut for the human body?
To get answers to these questions, it is worth studying in detail the composition of this fruit.
The composition and calorie content of coconut
Coconut is a fruit consisting of two layers and liquid.
The outer layer - the shell or exocarp - is very durable and difficult to mechanically impact. The inner layer - endocarp or copra - is the edible part of the coconut, the pulp. It is on the inside that the three spots are located, because of which the coconut got its name. Coconut liquid or endosperm ripens along with coconut, coconut water produces coconut milk.
In a mature fruit, coconut milk thickens and hardens.
Composition of coconut pulp (per 100 gr):
Proteins - 3.33 gr
Fats - 33.49 gr
Carbohydrates - 6.23 gr
Dietary fiber - 9 gr
Water - 46.99 gr
Ash - 0.97 gr
Mono- and disaccharides - 6.23 gr
Saturated Fatty Acids - 29.698g
There is a lot of fat in the pulp, so the calorie content of coconut is high - 353 kcal per 100 gr. And dry coconut contains even more calories - 592 kcal per 100 g. As for coconut water, it contains 16.7kcal per 100g.
There are a lot of vitamins in coconut (per 100 g of edible part):
Vitamin B1 - 0.066 mg
Vitamin B2 - 0.02 mg
Vitamin B3 - 0.3 mg
Vitamin B6 - 0.054 mg
Vitamin B9 - 26 mcg
Vitamin C - 3.3 mg
Vitamin E - 0.24 mg
Vitamin K - 0.2 mcg
Vitamin PP - 0.54 mg
Choline - 12.1 mg
In addition to vitamins, the composition of coconut pulp includes micro- and microelements that have a positive effect on human health:
Calcium
Manganese
But this is not a complete list of useful components of this tropical fruit. Coconut contains amino acids, antioxidants, fiber and natural oils.
American scientists claim that the composition of coconut water is close to the composition of human blood. This water contains minerals in the amount that a person needs. Therefore, after physical exertion or sports training, it is more beneficial to drink coconut water than sports drinks. But you need to drink coconut water immediately after opening the coconut.
The beneficial properties of coconut are explained by its composition, but not all people know what benefits the use of this tropical fruit will bring to the body. Yes, and the range of applications for coconut is quite wide, so the positive impact of this fruit is felt both from the inside and outside.
How is coconut used for good?
coconut pulp famous for its pleasant taste. This pulp is consumed both raw and dry.
Coconut flakes are made from dried coconut, which is used in baking, in the preparation of desserts, puddings, smoothies, etc. Coconut pulp is added to salads, snacks, and cereals. This tropical fruit gives dishes a sweetish aroma and a specific flavor.
Coconut milk also used in cooking. It is added to soups, meat and fish dishes. Sauces and drinks are also made from this milk.
Derived from dried coconut meat Coconut oil , which is used not only in cooking. Coconut oil is also popular in cosmetology, and in the pharmaceutical and perfume industries.
Coconut oil is good for hair and scalp. Regular use of this oil will help prevent split ends and split ends. Coconut oil nourishes, moisturizes and protects hair. It is recommended to use this tool for those who suffer from excessive dry hair. But it is worth remembering that coconut oil washes out unnatural pigment from the hair, so it is better not to apply this remedy on freshly dyed hair.
Coconut oil is good for the skin. It helps to keep the skin youthful and improve metabolic processes. The use of this oil for massage purposes is popular. The aroma of coconut has a calming effect, so it helps to relax during a massage session.
In addition, coconut is used even in the production of building and household materials. More precisely, not the whole coconut, but only its solid part. The fibers found in the shell of a coconut are called coconut coir.
Ropes, ropes, brushes, carpets, etc. are made from these fibers. Coconut coir is used to make the hard layer of mattresses, as it has high strength.
Coconut shells are part of absorbent drugs that have a positive effect on the functioning of the intestines and help remove toxins and waste from the body.
coconut shell used to make dishes, toys and souvenirs that tourists bring with them from warm countries. Even musical instruments are made from this shell.
What are the benefits of coconut for the human body?
The edible part of the coconut - pulp and milk - contains vitamins and minerals that are necessary for the normal functioning of the internal organs of a person.
coconut the pulp is rich in protein, which is why eating this tasty part of coconut is recommended for those who want to gain weight. The benefits of coconut for athletes and bodybuilders in particular are undeniable. Coconut will help build muscle mass in a short time and energize the body, as this exotic fruit contains a large amount of calories.
Coconut - strong aphrodisiac which increases sexual desire. This fruit has a positive effect on human reproductive functions. In addition, coconut helps to treat urological diseases.
This tropical fruit contains cellulose Therefore, coconut is useful for constipation and other problems with the gastrointestinal tract. Coconut helps to get rid of bloating, gas and stomach pain.
This fruit can be consumed even by people suffering from stomach ulcers. Coconut milk will help not only alleviate the symptoms of this disease, but also help heal the ulcer. Coconut milk is also effective in diseases of the kidneys and gallbladder.
Coconut has a positive effect on the functioning of the thyroid gland. This exotic fruit contains a considerable amount of iodine, so coconut helps to cope with diseases such as colloid goiter and other thyroid pathologies.
Coconut contains lauric acid, which is the main acid found in breast milk. Together with vitamins and minerals, lauric acid will help strengthen human immunity, increase resistance to many diseases and improve well-being. The substances that make up coconut help speed up the metabolism.
Scientists claim that coconut helps to overcome the appearance of cancerous tumors. This is especially true for breast cancer, so this tropical fruit should be included in your diet for women.
In addition to the above, coconut helps with eye diseases and visual impairment, with diseases of the heart and blood vessels, and with diseases of the joints.
At colds, sore throat and flu, it is recommended to use coconut milk, as it will soften a sore throat. Coconut has an anti-inflammatory effect. In addition, by drinking some coconut milk, you can fill your body with energy and supply the necessary nutrients.
Among scientists and nutritionists, there has long been a debate about the benefits and harms of coconut. The beneficial properties of this fruit are undeniable, but will the use of coconut bring harm to the human body?
Coconut: what is the harm to health?
It is widely believed that coconut, due to its high calorie content and fat content, is harmful to the health of the heart and blood vessels. However, studies have shown that the fats that make up this tropical fruit do not cause the appearance of cardiovascular diseases, because not all fats have the same effect on cholesterol levels. But still, it is not recommended to lean on coconuts for people who have problems with being overweight.
The use of this fruit is not recommended for those who are prone to diarrhea. Coconut has no other contraindications. There are rare cases of individual intolerance or allergic reactions, so if a person has never consumed this fruit, you should not eat too much of it the first time.
Is coconut good or bad for kids?
Sweets with coconut flakes All kids love it, but wouldn't eating coconut be harmful? The children's stomach is more receptive to food than in adults, therefore, it is not worth introducing this tropical fruit into the child's diet before one and a half to two years. Do not give coconut early to children with allergies, so as not to provoke an allergic reaction. Ideally, all tropical fruits are introduced into the diet of a child from the age of three.
Coconut contains many vitamins and minerals necessary for the full development and good growth of the child's body. Calcium has a positive effect on the skeletal system and teeth, and iron helps prevent anemia.
This tropical fruit has a beneficial effect on children's skin. Coconut oil is a great natural skin care product for babies. In addition, coconut oil helps protect baby's skin from sun damage.
There are no contraindications for the use of coconut by children. Do not use this fruit only in case of individual intolerance or allergies. Coconut will help ensure the normal growth and development of the child, saturate the body with vitamins and minerals and energize.
Once upon a time, ordinary cow's milk was one of the staples in almost every family, and its benefits and value were considered unconditional and were not questioned. But then the results of various studies began to refute the stereotypical opinion about this product. According to their data, the milk turned out to be not so useful, in some cases even harmful (the exception was children - milk is really useful and necessary for them, but only up to a certain age).
Alternative
Based on the foregoing, the theory of longevity is also based in those countries where there is traditionally no culture of eating dairy products, but the diet is rich in seafood (sources of calcium and protein).
Today it is also becoming fashionable to replace animal milk with vegetable milk, most often coconut milk. Such a transition is justified by the fact that the use of the mentioned product does not lead to an increase in cholesterol levels, which is inherent in cow's milk. In this regard, it would be interesting to conduct a qualitative analysis and compare cow and coconut milk: the calorie content of these products, value, usefulness.
Milk from cow
It is rightfully considered a unique product that has no analogues in its composition and complex content of all known useful substances. It contains vitamins (they are, however, few, but they are biologically active), minerals (all periodicals of Mendeleev are represented), fatty acids (over 40), 20 amino acids, trace elements and lactose. This milk is the source daily allowance protein, calcium, phosphorus and potassium. Its fat content depends on the nature of the processing, but in general the product is very nutritious. Thus, cow's milk, the calorie content of which is on average 52 kcal / 100 g with a fat content of 2.5%, is a rather valuable and necessary product for the normal functioning of the body.
palm tree milk
In terms of its composition, coconut milk cannot be compared with cow's milk, but it also contains a considerable amount of elements beneficial to humans. First of all, it is a source of vegetable protein, fat and oils. It contains enough manganese, iron and B vitamins, as well as ascorbic acid.
The main advantage is the absence of cholesterol. There are more minuses - a significant content of sugar and fats (on average 24 g per 100 g), as well as high calorie content coconut milk - 230 kcal per 100 grams. It helps well with depression and nervous exhaustion, chronic fatigue; is a prophylactic against diseases of the cardiovascular system, urological diseases, stimulates brain activity. Its fats cleanse the body. As you can see, coconut and cow's milk, the calorie content of which varies significantly, are products that are completely different in nature.
Milk in cooking
Where is used traditional milk- we are well aware. However, coconut milk
no less in demand among chefs. It is widely used in the cuisines of France, Thailand, Malaysia. Fish dishes, cocktails and soups are prepared from it. In addition, milk, whose calorie content is so high, is present in desserts and pastries. In the West, coconut milk, especially extra-fat milk, is referred to as "Asian cream" and is consumed in the same way as cream of animal origin. As an example, let's take the well-known English tea with milk. Its calorie content will be slightly higher than that of tea with regular milk, but this drink will serve as an excellent alternative for those who suffer from lactose intolerance. And also for those who are too concerned about the content of cholesterol in cow's milk.
Coconut milk - unusual, but useful product. Thanks to its pleasant taste and beneficial effects on the body, the drink is becoming increasingly popular. What are the benefits and harms of coconut milk, to whom it is especially useful, how to use it for various purposes and cook it at home.
How coconut milk is made
Unlike coconut water, which is naturally present inside the fruit, coconut milk is produced artificially. To do this, the coconut pulp is crushed with a grater or a special apparatus and the juice is squeezed out of it. The resulting product may be more or less liquid - it depends on the number of spins. The thickest drink is obtained after the first pressing. Second-pressed milk is also tasty, but not as healthy.
Chemical composition of coconut milk
Coconut milk contains B vitamins, vitamin C, A, PP. The mineral composition of the product includes:
- calcium;
- manganese;
- phosphorus;
- potassium;
- magnesium;
- sodium;
- zinc;
- iron;
- selenium.
In addition, the product is rich in fiber useful for digestion.
Calorie and nutritional value of coconut milk
The calorie content of coconut milk exceeds the calorie content of regular milk and is 152 kcal per 100 g. It contains 1.8 g of protein, 14.9 g of fat and 2.7 g of carbohydrates.
Benefits of coconut milk
The health benefits of coconut milk are varied. What effect does it have on the body?
- Reduces cholesterol levels. Milk is saturated with vegetable fats, but they will not harm the body. On the contrary, it is this drink that is useful for lowering cholesterol levels in the blood.
- Prevents the development of caries. The product will not help to get rid of an already existing problem, but it prevents its occurrence. The drink contains substances that kill bacteria that cause and spread tooth decay.
- Improves skin condition. Coconut milk moisturizes the skin, promotes rapid healing of damaged skin. All this is due to B vitamins, as well as lauric acid, which prevents the development of fungal diseases.
- Strengthens the immune system, restores energy resources largely due to vitamin C.
- Accelerates metabolism, as it has a beneficial effect on the thyroid gland. Vegetable fat in the composition of milk helps the proper functioning of the digestive system.
- Lauric acid also contributes to strong bones and brain development.
- Milk has antiviral and antibacterial properties.
- With the help of milk, you can strengthen blood vessels, increase their elasticity, and therefore avoid atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.
- Antioxidants in milk protect the body from harmful free radicals.
- Helps increase hemoglobin - 1 glass of drink provides the body with 20% of the daily requirement for iron.
Coconut milk will be a good and equally healthy substitute for people who do not eat animal products, allergies and fasting.
For women
For women, coconut milk is useful for maintaining youth and beauty. Antioxidants in the composition of the product will help improve the health of the skin and nails, the product is often used for both internal and external use - for cosmetic purposes.
For men
The product is useful for men to maintain reproductive function and treat urological diseases. Manganese is a good helper here.
Pregnant and lactating
Coconut milk is a useful product for the body of a pregnant woman and the development of the fetus. What properties are useful during pregnancy:
- Mild diuretic and choleretic action. This helps to remove water and salt from the body, which eliminates swelling.
- beneficial effect on nervous system and the formation of the baby's bones, preventing the occurrence of birth defects.
- Normalization of the hormonal background of the expectant mother.
- Getting rid of heartburn and constipation, which often affects pregnant women.
- Prevention of anemia in a child.
After childbirth, milk should also not be abandoned. B vitamins, as well as vitamins E and C, improve the quality of breast milk, and the drink as a whole strengthens a weakened body.
Important! If a woman did not consume coconut milk before giving birth, then it is worth introducing it into the diet only when the baby is 3-4 months old.
It is necessary to introduce milk into the diet gradually, it is advisable not to use any new products. This will help track down a possible allergic reaction to coconut. At breastfeeding a woman is recommended to drink about 1 glass of milk a day.
Can babies have coconut milk
In countries where coconut grows, it is given to children from a very young age. However, in our latitudes, you should be more careful with the early use of the drink, since the body of children is not adapted to exotic products. Therefore, it is advisable to give such milk to a child no earlier than 2-3 years. At the same time, you should cook it yourself, the product from the supermarket is much less useful.
How to take coconut milk for weight loss
Coconut milk helps to lose weight, as it has a beneficial effect on metabolism and the digestive system. However, when reducing weight, the product should be treated carefully - despite all beneficial features, it contains quite a lot of fat. Therefore, on days when you want to enjoy this drink, you should exclude other dishes containing fats from the diet and eat mainly vegetables, fruits and lean meats.
How to use coconut milk in cosmetology
The tool is used to improve the skin, giving it a pleasant shade. It also has a positive effect on the hair. How to use milk for cosmetic purposes.
For face
The product nourishes and moisturizes the skin, making it soft and tender. It can be used both as a tonic and as part of masks. To prepare a universal mask for any skin type, just mix 2 tbsp. l. milk with 2 tsp. honey and 2 tsp. oatmeal. The composition should be applied to the face for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
For hair
Vitamin E and fats in the composition moisturize and strengthen the hair. With the help of milk, you can get rid of dandruff and hair loss. To make hair lush, strong and shiny, a mask of 5 tbsp will help. l. milk and 3 tbsp. l. lime juice. The ingredients must be mixed, applied to the hair and kept warm for 15-20 minutes. The mask can then be washed off with shampoo.
Uses of coconut milk in cooking
Coconut milk is rarely consumed in its pure form due to its high fat content. But it is widely used in cooking:
- This ingredient is well suited for making desserts such as ice cream.
- Milk is used in various cocktails.
- The product is included in many side dishes of oriental cuisine.
- From the combination of milk with powdered sugar, an unusual buttercream is obtained.
Coconut milk, like regular milk, can be added to coffee and tea, baked on its basis.
How to make coconut milk at home
Coconut milk is not found in every store and is usually highly priced. but healthy drink you can cook on your own. It is made from fresh fruit, shavings, and concentrated or powdered coconut milk.
For preparation from concentrated or dry raw materials, water is used, which is diluted with the main ingredient to the desired consistency and fat content. How milk is made from fresh coconut and its shavings.
From coconut
The coconut needs to be cut in half. Inside it is the pulp. A quality coconut has a tender white flesh. A yellowish tint indicates that the nut has a bitter taste and cannot be used as food. You can cook from thin and dried pulp, but the milk will turn out to be much less fat.
The liquid from the nut is drained, and the pulp is peeled and rubbed on a fine grater. Then the grated nut is poured with boiling water and left for 3-4 hours. After this time, the mass must be filtered - useful and tasty milk ready.
From coconut flakes
Making homemade coconut milk from shavings is even easier. To do this, grind the chips in a blender and pour boiling water. 200 g of chips account for 0.5 liters of water. The composition is defended for 20 minutes, filtered, cooled and put in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
How much coconut milk can you drink per day
The drink should not be consumed without measure. Doctors do not advise everyone to drink it. Enough 1 glass a week or half a glass 2 times a week. In this case, we are talking about adults, including pregnant and lactating women.
Important! For children, the dosage should be reduced to 70 ml per week - about this amount of milk will be useful.
Is Coconut Milk Powder Healthy?
Coconut pulp powder will not harm the body. Modern manufacturers do not use preservatives, dyes and flavors in the manufacture of the product. Moreover, its usefulness is hardly less good fresh drink.
However, milk powder contains less fat and more dietary fiber. Due to its convenient shape, this version of the product is most preferable for storage and transportation.
Benefits and uses of coconut cream
Coconut cream contains all the same vitamins and minerals as milk itself. Cream helps relieve stress, alleviate the manifestations of depression and insomnia. They are widely used in the preparation of desserts and sauces.
Harm of coconut milk and contraindications
There are not so many contraindications for the product, but still they should be taken into account:
- The main contraindication is the presence of an allergy, which is not so common.
- It is not recommended to drink the drink with fructose intolerance.
- You should be careful with the product for problems with the gastrointestinal tract - milk can cause nausea, dyspepsia and diarrhea.
- With a weak peristalsis of the digestive tract, milk should not be abused.
- In some cases, drinking milk can cause irregular heart rhythms and high blood pressure.
It is also important to keep in mind that canned coconut milk may contain unhealthy ingredients. Therefore, preference should be given to a fresh product.
Choosing and Storing Coconut Milk
When choosing coconut milk, you should be guided by the same principles as when choosing cow's milk. It is important to pay attention to the expiration date, date of manufacture and fat content. At the time of buying canned milk composition needs to be studied. Quality product contains only water and coconut milk concentrate. It is important to avoid the preservative E224 - it is hazardous to health.
Advice! When buying milk in tins at home, it should be poured into glass containers.
Coconut milk in a glass jar is healthier and tastier because tin packaging can be oxidized, which negatively affects taste qualities and storage times.
It is undesirable to buy milk in large quantities without the need. The shelf life of the drink in an open container in the refrigerator is about 3 days.
Conclusion
The benefits and harms of coconut milk are now known, it remains to be decided for what purposes and quantities to use it. It is important to remember the necessary daily norms, then milk can be usefully used both in culinary and in medicinal purposes. And you can find out how milk actually works when used in cosmetology from the reviews.
