Is Coconut Meat Good For Your Health?

Coconuts are the large seeds or fruits of coconut palms (Cocos nucifera). Coconut meat is the sweet, white flesh inside a coconut that is rich in nutrients and can be eaten fresh or dried. Coconut meat’s benefits are a result of its rich phenolic compounds, vitamins, and minerals that help treat many ailments. Eating coconut meat regularly can improve heart health, regulate blood sugar levels, help with weight loss, and promote digestion. This article explores the nutrition profile of coconut meat, its health benefits and possible side effects, and some delicious recipes. Keep reading!

Know Your Ingredient: Coconut Meat

What Is It?
The nutrition-rich, sweet, white flesh lining inside a coconut.

What Are Its Benefits?
It may help improve heart health, regulate blood sugar levels, promote digestion, and aid in weight loss.

Who Can Consume It?
Anyone who is not allergic to coconuts can consume this coconut-derived product.

How Often?
You can consume about 100 g of coconut meat per day.

Caution
Since coconut meat is high in calories and saturated fats, consume it in moderation to avoid weight gain and other health issues.

Coconut Meat Nutrition Facts

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, one cup (80 g) of shredded coconut meat contains (1):

•  Calories: 283
•  Protein: 2.66 g
•  Fat: 26.8 g
•  Carbohydrate: 12.2 g
•  Fiber: 7.2 g
•  Sugar: 4.98 g
•  Calcium: 11.2 mg
•  Iron: 1.94 mg
•  Phosphorus: 90.4 mg
•  Potassium: 285 mg
•  Sodium: 16 mg
•  Vitamin C: 2.64 mg
•  Niacin: 0.432 mg
•  Thiamin: 0.053 mg
•  Vitamin B6: 0.043 mg
•  Folate: 20.8 µg

Coconut meat is also rich in fiber and phenolic compounds, making it a very healthy food item (1). Scroll down to learn about its health benefits.

Health Benefits Of Coconut Meat

1. Improves Heart Health

Extra virgin coconut oil, derived from fresh coconut meat, milk, or residue, has beneficial effects on your heart health. A study conducted by Chiang Mai University, Thailand, found that consuming 15 ml extra virgin coconut oil twice daily for eight weeks increases HDL cholesterol levels (2). A review published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism suggests that intake of coconut milk porridge can help decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase HDL (good) cholesterol (3).

In addition, the fiber in coconut meat can help reduce serum cholesterol levels (4). However, more studies are needed to understand this benefit of coconut meat.

2. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

A study published in the Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine found that the daily consumption of 100 g of fresh coconut helped reduce blood glucose levels in 80 healthy people, thereby preventing type-2 diabetes (5).

In addition, a review published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology suggests that virgin coconut oil can help prevent the development of insulinⁱ  XA glucose-regulating hormone released by the beta cells of the pancreas that also helps promote cell growth. resistance and hyperglycemia (too much sugar in the blood) in animals (6). The phenolic compounds and anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil help regulate blood sugar levels (7).

3. May Aid In Weight Loss

Raw coconut meat, coconut oil, and desiccated coconut contain a high percentage of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) (8). These MCTs are healthy fats and as a result have a positive effect on weight loss and body composition (9). Also, a study conducted by McGill University (Canada) found that foods rich in medium-chain triglycerides can diminish fat storage through the oxidationⁱ  XA chemical reaction due to the interaction between oxygen and a substance that leads to a decrease in electrons. process (10).

4. May Promote Digestion

Coconut meat is rich in dietary fiber (4). Intake of foods that are rich in dietary fiber helps improve digestion and increases stool frequency in people with constipation (11). However, more studies are needed to understand this benefit of coconut meat.

5. May Improve Symptoms Of Alzheimer’s Disease

Intake of dietary coconut can help prevent and treat neurodegenerative problems. The phenolic compounds and hormones available in coconut may help in the prevention and management of Alzheimer’s diseaseⁱ  XA neurologic disease also called senile dementia, it is a common condition in old age that leads to memory loss and affects thinking ability. (12).

In addition, the oil derived from coconut meat may help slow down age-related cognitive decline (13).

Vasundhara Agrawal, a nutritionist, says, “Manganese and antioxidants in coconut may help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. This fruit’s MCTs may also have antiviral, antifungal, and tumor-suppressing properties.”

Trivia

The term ‘coconut’ was derived from the 16th-century Portuguese word ‘coco.’ Coco in Spanish and Portuguese means ‘the skull’ or ‘the head,’ which refers directly to the outward hardness of the shell protecting the soft coconut meat inside the fruit.

Are there any risks associated with the overconsumption of coconut meat? Scroll down to find out!

Potential Downsides Of Coconut Meat

Consuming coconut meat in moderation is considered safe. But its excess consumption may lead to several side effects. Coconut meat contains saturated fats, and its high consumption may increase the risk of heart diseases. The intake of foods rich in saturated fats is associated with increased coronary heart diseases (14).
Coconut meat is also rich in calories, so its high intake may lead to weight gain.

Coconut meat allergies are rare, but some people may experience severe allergic reactions (15). Hence, limit your consumption and consult your doctor in case of any adverse reaction.

Quick Tip

Topical application of coconut derivatives may present allergic reactions such as hives and urticaria (red, itchy welts). Oral consumption may lead to reactions like a scratchy throat, difficulty breathing, diarrhea, and nausea (15).

How Much Coconut Meat Should You Eat?

There are no recorded recommended dosage values for coconut meat. But you can eat about 100 g of coconut meat per day to reap its maximum benefits.

Coconut meat can be purchased in many forms, including frozen, shredded, or dried. It is a versatile food that many people can easily add to their diet. Learn how to use coconut meat in your diet in the following section.

How To Use Coconut Meat

Some ways to use coconut meat include:

•  Mix coconut meat into dips and spreads.
•  Add it to your favorite fruit salad, mixed greens, yogurt, or oatmeal for a tropical twist.
•  Blending it into smoothies, dips, and sauces.
•  Use it to coat meat, fish, poultry, or tofu before baking.
•  Stir fresh chunks of coconut into stir-fries, stews, or cooked grains.
•  Add it to porridge or overnight oats.

You can prepare some easy and delicious recipes with coconut meat. Check out the next section for three simple recipes you can try at home.

Coconut Meat Recipes

1. Vegan And Gluten-Free Coconut Meat Ceviche

What You Need

•  Cherry tomatoes – 2 cups
•  Coconut meat – 2 cups
•  Minced red onion – ¾ cup
•  Chopped cilantro – ½ cup
•  Chopped cucumber – ¾ cup
•  Spicy tomato sauce – ¼ cup
•  Finely minced garlic cloves – 2-3
•  Diced avocado – 1
•  Juiced lemon -1
•  Juiced lime – 1
•  Tajin seasoning – 1 tablespoon
•  Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
•  Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
•  Salt and pepper – to taste

Process

1.  Combine all the ingredients, except the lime juice and avocado, in a bowl.
2.  Gently toss them together to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3.  Cover and let the ceviche marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. It gets better the longer you wait.
4.  When you are ready to serve the ceviche, add the avocado and lime juice, and toss everything together again.
5.  Add additional salt and pepper as needed.
6.  Serve the dish cold.

2. Coconut Meat Curry

What You Need

•  Mutton – ½ kg
•  Water – 3 cups
•  Vegetable oil – 2 tbsps
•  Potatoes – 2
•  Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
•  Lime juice – 1 teaspoon
•  Curry leaves – 1 sprig
•  Salt – 1 teaspoon
•  Coriander – ¾ dessert spoon
•  Red chilies – 4
•  Finely grated coconut – ½ cup
•  Cumin – ½ teaspoon

Process

1.  Wash and cut the meat into 1.5 cm cubes.
2.  Peel and dice the potatoes.
3.  Fry the coconut and all the spices, except turmeric, in one tablespoon of oil until the coconut is dry but does not change color. Grind the fried mixture to a fine paste.
4.  Heat the remaining oil and fry the spice paste and turmeric powder.
5.  Add the meat and fry till they turn crisp. Add water and salt, and cook on a slow fire for 30-35 minutes.
6.  Add the diced potatoes, mix well, and cook until both the meat and the potatoes are tender.
7.  Add the curry leaves and lime juice. Mix well and serve.

3. Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding

What You Need

•  Freshly grated coconut meat – ½ cup
•  Arborio rice – 1 cup
•  Coconut milk – 13.5 oz.
•  Sugar – 1/3 cup
•  Vanilla bean paste – 1 teaspoon
•  Coconut extract – 1 teaspoon
•  Dark rum – 1 tablespoon
•  Heavy cream – ½ cup
•  A couple of recycled vanilla beans

Process

1.  Cook the rice in 4 cups of water for 15 minutes.
2.  Drain and return the rice to the pan and add the coconut milk, vanilla bean pods, sugar, coconut meat, rum, vanilla paste, and coconut extract.
3.  Bring the rice to a simmer and cook on low for about 15 to 20 minutes, constantly stirring, until the mixture turns thick and the rice is tender.
4.  Stir in the heavy cream, remove the vanilla pods, and ladle the pudding into serving dishes.
5.  Top with toasted coconut and enjoy hot, or refrigerate until chilled.

4. Coconut And Mango Cake

What You Need

For the cake

• Cake mix – 1 box
• Ripe mango purée – 1 cup
• Shredded coconut – ½ cup

For the frosting

• Whipped cream – 1 ½ cup
• Shredded coconut – ¼ cup
• Fresh ripe mango slices

Process

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F and grease a baking pan.
2. Combine the cake mix, mango purée, and shredded coconut in a mixing bowl and follow the cake mix package instructions to use additional ingredients, except replace water (if mentioned) with more purée. Whisk well to make a smooth batter.
3. Pour the batter into the greased pan, bake it for 25-30 minutes, and let it cool.
4. Coat the cake with a generous layer of whipped cream.
5. Sprinkle some shredded coconut on top and garnish with ripe mango slices.
6. Refrigerate for about 2 hours and allow the cake to set before serving.

There are other simpler recipes you can try with coconut meat like coconut flakes. Marillyn Beard, a blogger, shares her recipe and experience of making coconut flakes from coconut meat. She originally bought 2-3 coconuts to make coconut milk but ended up making coconut flakes and absolutely loved it. She writes, “I originally bought them to make milk, but changed my mind after I ate some of the meat. It was too good! It was pretty simple to dehydrate the coconut meat, but I had to keep my eye on them so that they would not dry out too much (i).”

Infographic: 5 Reasons For Eating Coconut Meat

Coconut is a popular tropical fruit that can assist you in managing your diabetes, keeping a healthy weight, and improving your overall health. Check out the infographic below to learn more amazing benefits of including coconut meat in your diet.

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The Bottom Line

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat raw coconut meat?

Yes. You can eat raw coconut meat, fresh or dried. It is a nutritious addition to your diet as it contains many nutrients.

What is coconut meat called?

The white, slightly sweet flesh of the coconut is referred to as coconut meat, and its dried form is known as copra.

Is coconut meat good for the skin?

Yes. Coconut meat is packed with beneficial fatty acids that help promote skin health and may help keep the skin hydrated, supple, and smooth. It is also beneficial for hair health.

Can I eat coconut meat at night?

Yes. You can enjoy coconut meat at any time of the day, and it will help boost your overall health.

Personal Experience: Source

I. Fresh Coconut Flakes
https://just-making-noise.com/fresh-coconut-flakes/

Sources

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Dr. Pallavi SrivastavaClinical Nutritionist

   

Pallavi Srivastava is a Clinical Nutritionist with over 13 years of experience and the founder of Q-Slim Fitness Studio. She has dealt with more than 6000 clients, including Industrialists, Politicians, TV and film Celebrities, etc. Apart from formulating Diets for Weight loss, Weight Gain, Pregnancy and lactation diets, She helps treat issues related to High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, Diabetes,...more

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Sindhu Koganti is a Certified Health and Nutrition Life Coach and has over 6 years of experience in writing on health and wellness topics. She has a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology from Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur, and a diploma in nutrition from Fab Academy. After her graduation, she decided to combine her knowledge of science and love for writing to...more

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