Coconut milk: benefits and harms to the body

Coconut milk is a sweet, milky-white liquid that is produced from the pulp of ripened coconuts.

How coconut milk differs from coconut water

Coconut water is the juice that is inside the fruit, and coconut milk is the liquid obtained by grinding coconut pulp. Pulp and juice have significant differences when it comes to their composition. The main difference between milk is that this product is rich in saturated fatty acids.

One glass (200 ml) of milk contains 500 kcal (a quarter of the daily human norm) and 48 g of fat. Milk has a pleasant taste, but is considered a relatively harmful product. Coconut water in this regard is more useful, since it contains only 0.2 g of fat (per 100 ml). In addition, it is less caloric, as it contains only 45 kcal, most of which are carbohydrates.

Composition and calorie content

100 g of product contain:

• calories - 230 kcal;
• carbohydrates - 5.5 g;
• proteins - 2.3 g;
• fats - 23.8 g;
• saturated fats - 21.1 g;
• monounsaturated fats - 1.0 g;
• multi-stage fat - 0.3 g;
• dietary fiber - 2.2 g;
• sugar - 3.3 g;
• vitamin C - 2.8 mg;
• folic acid - 16 mcg;
• calcium - 16 mg;
• iron - 1.6 mg;
• magnesium - 37 mg;
• phosphorus - 100 mg;
• potassium - 263 mg;
• sodium - 15 mg;
• zinc - 0.7 mg;
• copper - 0.3 mg;
• Manganese - 0.9 mg;
• selenium - 6.2 mcg.

What is useful coconut milk

General benefit

1. The presence of anti-infective properties. Coconut milk contains lauric acid, which is very beneficial for the human body. When ingested, the acid is processed into monolaurin, a substance with antiviral properties. It helps the body fight infectious diseases such as swine flu, herpes, HIV, measles, hepatitis C. Coconut milk also has antifungal (helps fight intestinal giardia parasites) and antibacterial (kills bacteria helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, streptococcus agalactiae and others ) properties.
2. Blood pressure control and stress management. Coconut milk is rich in magnesium. One cup (200 ml) of coconut milk contains 74 mg of magnesium. Magnesium is involved in the expansion of blood vessels, which leads to a decrease in blood pressure. In addition, this mineral has anti-stress properties. Therefore, the use of such milk can help the body cope with an unstable emotional state, as well as reduce the impact of stressful situations on the human nervous system.
3. The fight against cholesterol. Despite the relatively high levels of saturated fat, coconut milk can actually help lower cholesterol. It can affect the increase in total cholesterol, and the lauric acid contained in it works precisely and helps to increase the level of HDL (good cholesterol) - this improves the ratio of HDL / LDL.In addition, coconut milk contains essential fatty acids - omega-3 and omega-6.
4. Benefits for bones. Unlike cow's, coconut milk does not contain much calcium. But it is worth noting that coconut milk is especially rich in phosphorus. One glass of the product contains about 200–230 mg of phosphorus, so this milk is very useful for bones, as it helps to develop and strengthen bone tissue.
5. Hypoglycemic properties. Coconut milk is an excellent source of manganese: 0.9 mg per 100 g of product. Manganese is a mineral that plays an important role in regulating blood sugar, which is an added benefit for people with type 2 diabetes. Manganese is also important for the functioning of the metabolism, is involved in the treatment of various inflammations, and can also be useful in the prevention of osteoporosis and the relief of symptoms of premenstrual syndrome in women.
6. Help treat arthritis. Coconut milk contains selenium, an antioxidant that relieves the symptoms of arthritis. Selenium controls free radicals and reduces the risk of joint inflammation.
7. Skin benefits. As with the ingestion of milk into the body, and when applying the product directly to the skin, its beneficial manifestations can be noticed. Milk helps the body control the moisture level of the skin, maintains its elasticity and smoothness. Coconut contains a large amount of vitamin E, which is essential for healthy skin.
8. Anti-aging properties. Coconut milk is a natural anti-aging agent due to its content of copper and vitamin C. These substances help the body maintain firmness and elasticity of the skin, support the functioning of blood vessels, which helps to slow down the aging process of the skin and prevents premature wrinkles.
9. The absence of allergens. Coconut milk does not contain common allergens or substances that cause intolerance - soy, nuts and lactose. People with lactose intolerance or with a nut allergy can use coconut milk instead of cow's milk as a safe alternative.
10. Cardiovascular health. Iron, the mineral responsible for the saturation of red blood cells with oxygen, helps to strengthen the cardiovascular system. The copper content in coconut milk increases iron absorption and contributes to the formation of red blood cells.
11. Good for the heart. Milk contains a large amount of lauric acid, a medium chain fatty acid that has a positive effect on the level of lipids and cholesterol in the body. In one study, it was found that with the use of such milk, the level of "bad cholesterol" (LDL) is significantly reduced, and the level of "good cholesterol" (HDL) rises. Therefore, the consumption of coconut milk has a beneficial effect on heart health.
12. Strengthening the immune system. Coconut milk contains a large amount of vitamin C, a nutrient that helps strengthen immunity.
13. Alzheimer's Disease Prevention. As already known, coconut milk contains medium chain triglycerides (TSCs). These TSCs are easily absorbed by the liver and turn into ketones. Ketones are considered an alternative energy source for the brain and are therefore very beneficial for people with Alzheimer's.
14. Help prevent the development of anemia. Anemia is a common disease, the cause of which is often a deficiency of nutrients, namely iron, in the body. But this can be avoided if you regularly drink coconut milk. A glass of milk provides the body with almost a quarter of the recommended daily dose of iron. Drinking milk will also help prevent the feeling of fatigue associated with anemia.
15. Establishing proper blood circulation. Coconut milk contains a large amount of copper and vitamin C. Therefore, the use of this product will help the body ensure normal blood flow and minimize fluctuations in blood pressure.
16. Prevention of the development of stomach ulcers. People suffering from stomach ulcers, the use of such milk can help significantly reduce and even prevent the occurrence of new ulcers. Coconut milk has antiulcer and antibacterial properties. The use of one glass of coconut milk once a week will significantly reduce the activity of harmful bacteria that cause such diseases.
17. Prostate health. Coconut milk is an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals. Among these nutrients is zinc, an element that helps maintain prostate health and reduces the risk of prostate cancer. The prostate gland already contains a small amount of zinc in the soft tissues, but regular use of this product ensures the maintenance of the level of the element in the body.
18. Increased availability. Coconut contains a large amount of natural sugars. These sugars give the body energy, so it is able to work faster. At the same time, the natural sugar contained in milk is absorbed by the body much better than regular white.

For women

Coconut milk has antimicrobial properties. More importantly, milk is a source of antioxidants that help free radicals in the body. Studies show that a diet high in antioxidants helps lower the risks of cancer, heart disease, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's. Regular consumption of milk can also be useful for diseases of the gallbladder and kidney stones. Since coconut milk is rich in electrolytes, proteins and carbohydrates, it is an excellent way to increase energy in the morning, especially during menstruation.

For men

Milk is also very beneficial for the male body. This product contains substances that help maintain normal men's health. Coconut milk is an excellent prophylactic against prostatitis. It helps increase potency and reproductive functions. In addition, the protein found in milk helps men involved in sports to build muscle and energize during training.

During pregnancy

Any coconut products, including milk, are allowed to be used by pregnant women. Coconut improves the immune system, increases the ability to fight diseases. Fatty acids make a significant contribution to fetal development. Lauric acid increases breast milk and reduces the risk of joint pain. Coconut oil also contains a lot of vitamin E, which is useful for the growth and development of the child.

Milk is useful only if it is consumed moderately. It is allowed to drink up to 2 glasses a week with a break of several days.

When breastfeeding

Coconut milk is also useful during breastfeeding. It helps the body produce the hormones necessary to produce its own milk. Fatty acids found in coconut are part of the composition of breast milk. It contains monolaurin - a fat that stimulates the growth of brain cells, and lauric acid, which helps strengthen the immunity of both the mother and the child.

It is not recommended to drink milk if allergic reactions occur in a child, as well as if a nursing woman has problems with her kidneys or digestion. It is allowed to start consuming milk 3 months after giving birth, but in small portions. Dosages can be gradually increased, the maximum volume per day is 100 ml.

For kids

As a rule, coconut is included in the diet of children suffering from intolerance to cow's milk.But this product does not give much effect, since it can be used only in small quantities, a maximum of 2 times a week.

The recommended age at which a child can be given coconut-based products is 2-3 years. In the event that no allergic reactions are observed, there are no digestive problems, then you can gradually begin to include diluted milk when the baby is 1 year old. Be sure to consult a pediatrician before this.

In the first step, you need to dilute the milk with 50/50 water and give the child no more than one teaspoon. If you experience any allergies, you must exclude the product from the diet and consult a doctor.

Coconut Milk Slimming

Since coconut milk contains saturated fats, dieters often exclude this product from their diet. Nevertheless, coconut milk has properties that can help in losing excess weight. Fiber contained in it contributes to the rapid saturation of the body, so after consuming one glass of the drink, the appetite can significantly decrease, which will undoubtedly affect weight.

The fat contained in milk is involved in metabolic processes and helps to speed up metabolism. The product also contains medium chain triglycerides, which are known to burn fat, cause a feeling of satiety.

Coconut milk in medicine

In coconut’s homeland, milk is used to help treat poisoning and diarrhea. Also, until recently, it was believed that coconut is a cure for cholera. In eastern medicine, it is believed that the consumption of coconut milk significantly improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system, normalizes blood circulation, lowers bad cholesterol, and minimizes the risk of atherosclerosis.

With diabetes
Coconut milk does not contain sugar, fructose gives it sweetness, therefore this product is allowed to be included in the diet for people suffering from diabetes. Moreover, it is worth noting that manganese is present in the milk, so its use leads to a decrease in the amount of sugar in the blood.

Important: the glycemic index of coconut milk is 40 units.

With pancreatitis

With the occurrence of the disease in a mild form, coconut milk is allowed to be consumed, but only in reasonable quantities. If you overdo it with a dosage, then an overload of the pancreas can occur, and this will harm the body. When using milk in moderation, the body will be easier to cope with the disease, since the product has properties that normalize digestion, and also has a beneficial effect on the pancreas. If the disease is acute, then it is forbidden to use coconut milk.

With gastritis

With gastritis, coconut milk is allowed, but, again, in small quantities. The acids contained in this product are very well absorbed, therefore there is no excess fat deposition. Coconut milk should not be consumed in case of fructose intolerance or food allergies.

For the intestines

The composition of coconut milk includes fiber, which has a positive effect on the process of intestinal function. Therefore, all unnecessary components will be excreted from the body much easier. The fibers themselves are well-digestible, so they will not additionally burden the body.

For constipation

Milk contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals.The body is saturated with irreplaceable electrolytes and healthy fats, which help food to normally move along the digestive tract and regularly remove feces, so it is very useful for constipation.

Coconut milk in cosmetology

Coconut milk is a universal product for skin beauty. If you learn how to use it correctly, then the process of maintaining youth and skin health can be turned into one pleasure.

Coconut Milk Hair Masks

Pure Coconut Milk Mask

What do you need:

• coconut milk - 1/4 cup;
• shower cap.

How to do:

1. Heat the milk.
2. Massaging, rub into the scalp (the process should take 10-15 minutes).
3. After that, grease the hair with milk (along the entire length) and put on a hat.
4. Wait 40–45 minutes.
5. Wash your hair with regular shampoo.

It is recommended to make a mask once a week, so the scalp will receive nutrition and the hair structure will improve.

Mask with coconut milk and honey
What do you need:

• coconut milk - 4 tbsp. l .;
• honey - 2 tsp;
• shower cap.

How to cook:

1. Mix milk with honey (until smooth).
2. Massaging, apply a mask on the scalp.
3. After that, grease the hair with milk (along the entire length) and put on a hat.
4. Wait 60–120 minutes.
5. Wash your hair with regular shampoo.

The mask helps to moisturize the hair. The procedure can be carried out once a week.

Face masks

Moisturizing face mask
Ingredients:

• coconut milk - 1 tsp;
• honey - 1 tsp

How to cook:

1. Mix milk with honey and apply this mixture on the face (using a cosmetological spatula).
2. Wait 15 minutes.
3. Wash off the mask with warm water.

Coconut milk contributes to the disappearance of acne, reduces irritation and inflammation.

Moisturizing face mask
Ingredients:

• coconut milk - 1/2 tbsp;
• yogurt (without additives) - 1 tsp;
• honey - 1 tsp;
• rice flour (grated) - 1 tsp

How to do:

1. Combine the ingredients and mix thoroughly.
2. To apply mix on the cleared and steamed face skin.
3. Wait 20-30 minutes.
4. Wash your face with warm water.

After the procedure, the skin will become more tender and well moisturized.

Is powdered coconut milk good for you?

Coconut milk powder is obtained by drying the flesh of coconut. The resulting product has useful properties. Powdered milk contains iron, magnesium, potassium and other vital elements that are fully preserved after drying. The use of such milk helps to reduce the manifestations of seasonal vitamin deficiency, and also supports the health of the urinary and nervous systems.

This is a fairly low-calorie product, so it can be consumed by overweight people.

How to breed powdered coconut milk

For breeding you will need:

• milk powder - 5 tsp;
• water (warm) - 250 ml.

1. Place milk powder in a glass.
2. Pour warm water (50 ml) and mix thoroughly.
3. Add another 100 ml of water, beat the mixture (with a blender for up to 1 minute).
4. Then let the milk brew, after the sedimentation of the foam, pour the remaining water into a glass and mix.
5. Wait until the milk has completely settled.

Harm and contraindications

Due to its rich taste, coconut milk is considered a healthy substitute for many dairy products. But along with its many benefits, it also has some side effects.

Side effects of coconut milk:

1. High cholesterol. Fats found in coconut milk can increase your cholesterol.
2. Allergy and intolerance. In case of fructose allergy or intolerance to the constituents of milk, a drink can be harmful to the body.
3. Excess weight. Excessive consumption can lead to the deposition of fats in the body.
4. Constipation. Due to its high fiber content, coconut milk can cause digestive problems or even constipation.
5. Irritable bowel syndrome. Monosaccharides and polyols found in coconut milk increase the risk of irritable bowel syndrome.

In most cases, side effects occur only with excessive consumption. Therefore, limit your intake to acceptable limits and enjoy the benefits of this amazing drink.

Could there be an allergy to coconut milk

An allergy to coconut milk can manifest as itching in the mouth, coughing, shortness of breath, redness, nausea, and vomiting. Allergies to this product can occur even in people who have previously consumed coconut and had no consequences. Most often, such reactions occur when applying milk to the skin.

How to choose and store coconut milk

In order to determine the quality of a product, the first thing to do is to analyze the information on the label. The composition of milk should be coconut pulp and water. If additional components are indicated, then it is better not to purchase such a product. Be sure to ensure that the composition does not contain E-224 (a carcinogen that can adversely affect human health).

It is recommended to purchase milk in a small container, since after opening it can be stored in the refrigerator for only 3 days (no more). Store the product in sealed packaging.

Is it possible to freeze

You can store milk in frozen form, while it will be stored longer.

How to make coconut milk at home

Ingredients:

• coconut - 1 pc.;
• water - 400 ml.

1. To feel one eye on a coconut, it should be quite soft. Pierce it and pour coconut water through the hole.
2. Chop coconut (this can be done with a hatchet).
3. Free coconut flesh from shell.
4. Peel the flesh of dark residues.
5. Grind the flesh with a grater or combine.
6. Transfer the powder into a bowl and pour water (boiling) until the pulp is completely covered.
7. Wait 30 minutes and lay the mixture on a thick towel, squeeze out the liquid so that the chips are dry. You’ll get about 130 grams of coconut flakes and 400 grams of coconut milk. A little later, you will notice that the milk obtained is divided into 2 parts. There will be butter on the surface, and milk below.
8. Put milk in the refrigerator for 24 hours.

How much coconut milk can I drink per day

It is not recommended to drink a drink every day. The permissible dosage is 1 glass per week or half a glass every 3-4 days.

Can I add to coffee

It is possible and even necessary to add coconut milk to coffee. It will give it a creamy creamy taste and a light coconut aroma.

What can be made from coconut milk: recipes

Coconut milk is widely used in the field of cooking. This excellent drink can be used in the preparation of various dishes.

Soup

Ingredients:

• chicken leg - 4 pcs.;
• onion - 1 pc.;
• carrot - 1 pc.;
• garlic - 5 tooth .;
• cilantro;
• coconut milk;
• cheese (processed) - 3 pcs.;
• potato - 2 pcs.;
• quail eggs.

How to cook:

1. Put boil chicken stock.
2. Finely chop the onion and cilantro, grate the carrots with garlic, chop the potatoes (straws) and cheese (cubes).
3. After the broth is cooked, place the meat (boneless) in a saucepan. Add potatoes to the broth.
4. Fry onions and carrots in a frying pan (in butter), add coconut milk (3 tbsp), cheese (cubes) and mix.
5. Add cilantro and garlic.
6. Pour the cheese mass into the broth, mix, salt and pepper.

Pancakes

Ingredients:

• sugar - 2 tbsp;
• Coconut milk - 400-450 ml;
• flour - 8-10 tablespoons;
• eggs - 2 pcs.;
• oil (olive) - 3 tbsp;
• coconut flakes - 20 g;

How to cook:

1. Beat eggs with sugar.
2. Add coconut milk and mix.
3. Knead after adding flour.
4. Add coconut flakes, olive oil and mix.
5. Bake pancakes.

Porridge

Ingredients:

• oat flakes - 100 g;
• coconut milk - 200 ml;
• water - 100 ml;
• honey - 1 tbsp

How to cook:

1. Pour milk into a saucepan, dilute it with water and put to cook.
2. After the mixture begins to boil, pour oatmeal there and mix thoroughly.
3. Cover the stewpan with a lid, leaving a gap so that the steam can escape, also reduce the fire to a minimum.
4. Stir, cook for about 5 minutes.
5. Set the pan aside (for 10 minutes).
6. Transfer the porridge to a plate, add honey and mix.

Dessert with Coconut Milk and Chia Seeds

Ingredients:

• chia seeds - 4 tbsp;
• Mango - 1.5 tbsp .;
• coconut milk - 0.5 tbsp .;
• milk - 0.5 tbsp .;
• vanilla - 0.5 tsp;
• sugar - 1 tbsp;
• water - 1 tbsp .;
• hazelnuts (chopped).

How to cook:

1. Kill the pulp of a mango with a blender, while gradually adding water. Pour 1/3 cup of the resulting mixture and refrigerate for 60 minutes.
2. In a separate container, mix cow and coconut milk with vanilla and sugar, stir, and then add chia seeds. Stir 3-4 minutes until thickened.
3. Fill glasses with mango and milk mixture and place in the refrigerator for 4-8 hours.

Coconut milk cream

Ingredients:

• pulp with 1 coconut;
• butter - 70 g;
• icing sugar - 40 g;
• chicken eggs - 2 pcs.;
• cream - 100 g;
• starch - 30 g;
• vanillin - 1-2 g.

How to cook:

1. Cool the bowl and whisk (or blender nozzle) in the refrigerator (10 minutes).
2. Make milk from coconut pulp, only a precipitate is needed for the cream (the liquid can be drained).
3. Beat the mass (3-4 minutes) from milk, butter, powder, eggs and starch, add eggs at the end (only protein).
4. Add vanilla and beat until smooth.
5. After cooking, immediately apply the cream.

Yogurt

1. Heat coconut milk (1-2 liters) to 39-40 degrees.
2. Add the probiotic purchased at the pharmacy, or 1 cup of the finished yogurt, beat.
3. Pour the composition into a jar and leave for 7-12 hours in a warm place near the battery or wrap the container with a towel.
4. Add vanilla when ready, mix, refrigerate, stand for another 6 hours.

How to replace coconut milk

What can replace coconut milk:

1. in desserts - with ordinary milk;
2. in sauces - low-fat store cream (10-15%);
3. in baking - with coconut.

Interesting Coconut Facts

1. Falling coconuts kill 150 people every year.
2. Coconut oil was the most common in the world until the 1960s.
3. More than 20 billion coconuts are harvested annually.
4. Coconut fruits can swim long distances across the ocean, and then sprout on new land when they land.
5. The life expectancy of coconut palms is from 100 to 120 years.

Coconut milk photo