New Delhi: Coconut milk is a milky substance extracted from the flesh of mature coconuts. This article takes a detailed look at coconut milk.
- It aids in weight loss
Coconut milk is rich in short and medium-chain triglycerides that are considered to be healthy fats. They prolong the feeling of satiety causing you to eat less and avoid giving in to cravings. In addition, they are more likely to be converted to energy as opposed to long-chain fatty acids. These are preferentially stored in the body contributing towards obesity.
- It contains antioxidants
Coconut milk is rich in vitamins C and E which are well known for their antioxidant properties. Free oxygen radicals are formed by our body tissues during the process of metabolism. They are harmful to cellular components and contribute towards aging and tumour growth. Antioxidants contained in coconut milk help to neutralize these harmful substances.
- Electrolyte balance
Coconut milk is rich in electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium and phosphorous. Potassium is important for the maintenance of a normal heart rhythm. It is also crucial for healthy muscle functioning. Magnesium is required for a healthy immune system as well as the maintenance of normal nerve and muscle function. Phosphorus is a vital structural component of bones and teeth. By adding coconut milk to your recipes, you ensure that the body has enough supply of phosphorous to meet these requirements.
- Prevents heart disease
Coconut milk is known to increase the levels of HDL cholesterol in the body. Scientific research now shows that coconut milk may help to reduce the levels of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) in the body if consumed in low quantities. HDL cholesterol has anti-inflammatory properties that protect the endothelium or blood vessel lining. LDL cholesterol, on the other hand, promotes the formation of plaques in blood vessels causing pathological narrowing. When blood vessels supplying the heart muscles are narrowed, heart attacks can result.
- Strengthens the immune system
Coconut milk contains lauric acid which is known for its antiseptic properties. It assists the body in fighting infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. A study done in The Philippines showed that children with pneumonia responded faster to treatment with antibiotics and coconut milk compared to those who were treated with antibiotics alone.
