Coconut is the fruit of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera).It’s used for its water, milk, oil, and tasty meat.Coconuts have been grown in tropical regions for more than 4,500 years but recently increased in popularity for their flavor, culinary uses, and potential health benefits.Here are 5 health and nutrition benefits of coconut.
The raw white meat inside a coconut is referred to as the kernel. It has a firm texture and delicious, slightly sweet flavor.If you have a whole coconut, you can scrape the raw meat out of the shell and eat it.
In its processed form, you’ll usually find it sliced, shaved, or grated.Coconut milk and cream are made by pressing the raw, grated meat.Dried coconut meat is usually grated or shaved and used in cooking or baking. It can be further processed and ground into flour.
Coconut oil is also extracted from the meat. Unlike many other fruits that are high in carbs, coconuts provide mostly fat.They also contain protein, several important minerals, and small amounts of B vitamins.
