SUPERFOOD SPOTLIGHT:

“Superfoods are exactly that – they are foods that are most nutrient-rich, full of the best anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals, proteins and healthy fats”

The coconut is known as “the tree that supplies all that is needed to live” and is able to absorb almost every mineral needed for human nutrition.  They are alkalizing, hydrating, PH balancing, cleansing, nourishing, healthy….. every part of a coconut has incredible health benefits including immune boosting, metabolism increasing and supporting brain function.Young coconuts are the most health supportive, providing a delicious soft meat and pure coconut water.  Older coconuts are used to press out coconut oil which is a creamy and nutritious fat that is solid and white when cool and a clear liquid when warmed.

Coconut water

I love using coconut water in my smoothies, it’s known as nature’s natural hydrator and is rich in electrolytes. In it’s natural form, it is highly concentrated with 5 electrolytes that help hydration: sodium, magnesium, calcium, potassium and phosphorus making it a perfect post workout recovery.

Always make sure you choose coconut water that does not have added sugar.

The meat you get inside a young coconut contains fiber and protein and can also be used in your smoothies, fruit salad and in your thai-style dishes.

Coconut oil 

Is taken from the meat of a coconut and can be used in so many ways. It contains anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties, making it excellent for immune system stimulation. It has the ability to affect hormones, and has been shown to stimulate the thyroid while balancing blood sugar.

Choosing the correct coconut oil:

Many coconut oils we can buy are often extracted through heat or chemical solvents; try and find a brand where the coconut oils are processed without heat or chemicals. This way the oils will have a higher level of nutrients and food enzymes.

Choose:

1. Unrefined coconut oil – Unrefined means the coconut oil is less processed and comes from fresh coconuts rather than dried and does not require bleaching or additives and is not exposed to high heat levels. Unrefined oils have a natural coconut aroma. If you don’t love the smell of coconut then look for a good quality Refined coconut oil ( this means that the company making it does not use chemicals, bleach, or solvents to refine their oil. They preserve the integrity of their oil and use a natural process to refine it). Refined coconut oil has a higher smoke point of 200-250 degrees.

2. Cold pressed oils – In general, extracting oil from coconuts involves heat and this can destroy vital nutrients in coconuts. This is why it is best to choose cold pressed coconut oils. The process occurs in heat-controlled condition and ensures, less harsh processing and most nutrition.

3. Organic – Coconut is a low risk food when it comes to being genetically modified. It also isn’t dunked in pesticides unlike other crops so choose organic oils. This keeps away the use of dangerous chemicals in the extraction process.

My favourite uses of coconut oil: (for almost everything!)

1. In my kitchen – Coconut oil is the most stable of all oils, because it is a completely saturated fat it does not change composition into a dangerous trans fat when heated. Choose coconut oil for all types of baking, cooking or frying and keep your olive oil for fresh salads.

2. In my bathroom – You won’t find a better body moisturiser for your skin, warm it up in your hands and apply to your body, as a lip moisturiser and even your hair.

3. In my warm water and lemon – i love adding a 1/4 teaspoon of coconut oil to my warm water and lemon during the day.

3. Every now and again I use my coconut oil for oil pulling and in my coffee!!!

Now we know why the coconut is known as “the tree that supplies all that is needed to live”

Image credit: Creative photo corner