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Saturday 22 December 2018

Coconut Milk Health Benefits and Uses ... and some recipe suggestions

Franziska Spritzler RD CDE writes:
"Coconut milk has recently become very popular. It's a tasty alternative to cow's milk that may also provide a number of health benefits. 

This article takes a detailed look at coconut milk. 

What Is Coconut Milk? 
Coconut milk comes from the flesh of mature brown coconuts. It is used in many traditional cuisines around the world. 

How Is It Made? 
Coconut milk is made by grating flesh from a brown coconut, soaking it in water and then straining it to produce a milk-like consistency. 

Nutrition Content 
Coconut milk is high in calories and saturated fat. The milk is also a good source of several vitamins and minerals. 

Effects on Weight and Metabolism 
Coconut milk contains small amounts of MCTs. Although MCTs may increase metabolism and help you lose belly fat, the low levels in coconut milk are unlikely to significantly affect weight loss. 

Effects on Cholesterol and Heart Health 
Overall, cholesterol and triglyceride levels improve with coconut intake. In cases where “bad” LDL cholesterol increases, “good” HDL typically increases as well. 

Other Potential Health Benefits 
Animal and test-tube studies suggest that coconut milk may reduce inflammation, decrease ulcer size and fight viruses and bacteria that cause infections — though some studies did not solely examine coconut milk. 

Potential Side Effects 
Coconut milk is likely safe for most people who are not allergic to coconuts. It is best to choose BPA-free cans. 

How to Use It 
Coconut milk can be used in a variety of recipes. It’s generally best to choose coconut milk in cartons or make your own at home. 

The Bottom Line 
Coconut milk is a tasty, nutritious and versatile food that is widely available. It can also be made easily at home. It’s full of important nutrients like manganese and copper. Including moderate amounts in your diet may boost your heart health and provide other benefits as well. To experience this tasty milk alternative, try using coconut milk today."

The above words are just a small snippet from Franziska's post, please read it in full here



Here are three recipes that use coconut milk, that you may wish to try.

Individual Fish Pies : Low Carb, Dairy Free and Tasty
see more details here

Sweet potato, carrot, red pepper & tomato soup : Nana's 'magic' recipe
see more details here

Chocolate Mousse à la Paleo
see more details here

Dear readers, you will find a variety of articles/recipes within this blog, and it is important to note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter.

All the best Jan

11 comments:

Lowcarb team member said...

Francisco Manuel Carrajola Oliveira said...
Aproveito para desejar um Santo e Feliz Natal. 🎄


Google translate
I take the opportunity to wish a holy and merry Christmas

Thank you for your kind words Francisco

Jo said...

I've never tried coconut milk but I know it's become very popular just lately.

DUTA said...

If it's rich in calories, then it's not for me as I'm trying to watch my weight.

Valerie-Jael said...

Great article, thanks. Valerie

Christine said...

Thanks for sharing, I like coconut.

Catarina said...

Coconut milk and almond milk (30 calories per cup) are my favorites.

Bleubeard and Elizabeth said...

I've contemplated buying coconut milk for both using in my coffee and for baking. This was VERY informative, Jan. I've had it straight out of the coconut before. Merry Christmas, dear Jan.

Martha said...

Thank you for all the information. Coconut milk is so versatile!

William Kendall said...

I've never tried it.

Elephant's Child said...

I really don't like coconut (or soy) milk in my tea, but use both of them in cooking.

Magic Love Crow said...

Thanks for the great information Jan! Big Hugs!