Health
6 benefits of coconut sugar and side effects
Discover the 6 benefits of coconut sugar and side effects.
Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener that can be more expensive than regular granulated sugar, but it’s worth it as it yields some tremendous benefits that make it a much better choice than many other sweetener options.
For example, coconut sugar is better for diabetics and the gut than regular, everyday sugar, and it contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals.
We can thank the coconut tree for the many products it produces, from coconut water to desiccated coconut, coconut vinegar, and as a personal favorite, coconut oil.
It is also very popular in the manufacture of alcoholic beverages known by the locals as a tuba or coconut wine.
However, it is the inflorescence – of coconut flowers of the coconut tree (not to be confused with the palm tree) – that offers a sap that can be processed to create a syrup or honey-like substance, which is then dried to form coconut sugar.
Benefits of coconut sugar
1.- It can help diabetics
Coconut sugar and coconut nectar contain a fiber known as inulin. This fiber can help slow glucose absorption, offering an alternative for those dealing with diabetic concerns; Some studies show that inulin can help reduce glucose absorption, therefore keeping glucose levels in check.
One particular study conducted suggests that the benefits of coconut sugar help women with type 2 diabetes, improving some glycemic and antioxidant levels while lowering levels of malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress.
Tasting similar to brown sugar, coconut sugar (and coconut nectar) is gaining popularity as a sweetener in everything from coffee and tea to delicious food recipes.
The American Diabetes Association shares that while people with diabetes can use coconut sugar as a sweetener in a diabetic diet plan, they must use it the same way they would use table sugar because it contains as many calories and carbohydrates as possible. possible.
Approximately 15 calories and four grams of carbohydrates per teaspoon. Another important note is that it is often found mixed with table sugar, so take a look at the label before making a purchase.
2.- Tested by the Paleo diet
If you’re following the Paleo diet, coconut sugar is one option you can use to satisfy that sweet tooth, according to the Ultimate Paleo Guide; Some hardcore Paleo followers still avoid it as it is often processed.
However, it is believed to have been used in the Paleolithic, which is part of their claim that it is fine for Paleo lovers.
Studies lead us to think that our ancestors got about 35% of their dietary energy from fat, 35% from carbohydrates, and 30% from protein.
The benefits of coconut sugar would be in the carbohydrate category, but it is still a processed form of the coconut flower; perhaps coconut nectar or a liquid form is a bit closer to Paleo for those who want to maintain a stricter paleo lifestyle.
3.- Contains vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients
Coconut sugar contains vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, albeit in small amounts. For example, both the zinc and the iron that is found in the benefits of coconut sugar contain at least twice as much as what we can find in traditional or granulated sugar.
The FNRI also notes that there is a decent amount of phytonutrients, specifically polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanidins.
These phytonutrients help lower blood sugar, inflammation, and cholesterol, making coconut sugar a better choice than many other sweeteners.
The American Cancer Society explains that phytonutrients from plants offer many health benefits and are better options than supplements or pills.
4.- Good for the digestive system
As noted above, coconut sugar benefits contain inulin, which, among other things, has within its capabilities the stimulation of so-called intestinal bifidobacteria growth, which is usually found within probiotics, which can provide a boosted general to the immune system.
As you know, bifidobacteria make up a select group of bacteria that normally live inside the intestines, and that can grow outside the body and be taken orally like any medicine.
Bifidobacteria are known to help restore the good bacteria in the gut that may have been destroyed through chemotherapy, antibiotics, and the like.
This bacterium helps many conditions that can affect the intestines, including diarrhea, ulcerative colitis, and pouchitis, and has even been used to prevent a particular intestinal infection found in infants called necrotizing enterocolitis.
Side effects of coconut sugar
There seems to be little information regarding precautions other than the reminder that coconut sugar has the same calories as regular sugar, so keeping it in moderation is key.
Having too much sugar of any kind can affect weight gain, and inflammation in the body, and can even increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Additionally, the American Diabetes Association notes that many products on the shelf add regular sugar to coconut sugar, so it’s important to keep an eye on labeling.
How to make use of coconut sugar
Coconut sugar can be used the same way regular sugar is used, but you may want to start with half the amount until your desired sweetness is reached.
Coconut palms have been used for sugar production for centuries using sophisticated tapping techniques that were developed in Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Ensuring ways to recover the sap has been of great interest since animal feeding trials were successfully started during a project in Cambodia.
This process has been practiced by Indonesians for hundreds of years and is noted as an efficient system on some highly populated islands.
It is commonly known as coconut sugar, coconut palm sugar, coconut sap sugar, or coconut blossom sugar, but note that palm sugar is not the same thing and is often confused when used in labeling.
Is coconut sugar good for human consumption?
This question is very popular, especially since coconut oil has become one of the main stimulants for almost anything, from whitening your teeth to a healthy fat in your morning toast, but there is still little data on it.
What we do know is that there are trace amounts of vitamins and minerals found in coconut sugar, but for you to have impactful nutrition, you need to eat a lot of it.
Eating too much sugar, in any form, is not a good idea, and coconut sugar, calorie for calorie, is the same as regular granulated sugar.
In any case, it is the best option if you are looking for an alternative sweetener or granulated sugar substitute, as there are trace elements available, such as iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, some short-chain fatty acids, polyphenols, antioxidants, and fiber is known as inulin, all of which may offer some health benefits that regular table sugar cannot.
Final Thoughts
Coconut sugar can be a great sugar alternative, especially for diabetics.
Also, while coconut sugar has many benefits that you won’t find in regular table sugar, it may require large amounts to have a positive effect.
Regardless, it’s a much better option than regular granulated sugar, though keep in mind that I always recommend opting for small amounts of sugar in your overall diet.
However, if you’re going for that sweetener, coconut sugar is one of the best natural sweeteners out there.
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Discover the benefits of coconut water in pregnancy.
Coconut water is a clear, sweet, energizing isotonic drink that helps your body replenish lost fluids. Also known as Nariyal Pani and Elaneer in India, it is known for its versatility and countless nutritional benefits.
IS IT SAFE TO CONSUME COCONUT WATER DURING PREGNANCY?
Yes, it is safe to drink coconut water, but in moderation, as it contains natural vitamins and minerals.
Having coconut water in the first trimester helps curb dehydration resulting from morning sickness. It’s also good for heartburn and constipation, common symptoms of pregnancy.
You can drink coconut water at any time, but the best time is early in the morning. It is healthier, as the electrolytes and nutrients can be easily absorbed when the stomach is empty.
The nutritional benefits present in a cup of coconut water include:
•Calories 46
•Sodium 252mg
•600mg potassium
•Carbs 8.9 grams
•Dietary fiber 2.6 grams
•Sugars 6.26 grams
•Calcium 6%
Benefits of coconut water in pregnancy
You can reap its benefits only when you consume fresh water, as it begins to ferment when left open and exposed to air.
1. NATURAL DIURETIC:
During pregnancy, uric acid levels should be normal in your body system. Coconut water is a diuretic and increases the need to urinate due to the presence of potassium, magnesium, and minerals.
They help eliminate toxins and cleanse the urinary tract. Thus, it improves kidney function and prevents kidney stones and infections. It also prevents urinary tract infections, which reduces the chances of preterm labor.
2. OFFERS ESSENTIAL ELECTROLYTES:
The need for electrolytes increases during pregnancy because conditions like morning sickness, nausea, and diarrhea dehydrate the body. Coconut water supplies all five essential electrolytes: minerals, sodium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, which calm the body and provide energy.
These electrolytes transmit electrical charges in your body and aid in muscle function. They also help maintain your body’s pH levels and control blood pressure levels. It is known to have cooling properties, which prevent conditions such as bilious fever and vomiting.
3. RELIEVES HEARTBURN AND CONSTIPATION:
Hormonal changes during pregnancy lead to various problems like heartburn, constipation, and indigestion. The rich content of dietary fiber in coconut water strengthens the digestive system, improves digestion, regulates pH levels, and prevents constipation.
Ayurveda considers young coconut water to be an excellent laxative. Improves metabolism and detoxifies the body. Coconut water is a natural acid neutralizer and thus prevents heartburn.
4. TREAT INFECTIONS:
Coconut water is rich in vitamins, essential minerals, and antioxidants, which boost your immune levels, providing resistance to infections. It contains lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid responsible for the production of a powerful antiviral monolaurin, Michelle-Lee Young writes in the book “Two Trees and Twelve Fruits That Will Change Your Life Forever.” Lauric is a disease-fighting acid that kills harmful bacteria and infections like the flu, and HIV, and retains good bacteria.
5. IMPROVES HEART HEALTH:
Low electrolyte level increases blood pressure. Drinking coconut water improves levels of potassium, magnesium, and lauric acid, which help regulate blood pressure. Improves good cholesterol and fights bad cholesterol.
The vitamins, essential proteins, and electrolytes in coconut water control sugar levels, and blood pressure levels, and improve circulation. A glass of coconut water every day is particularly helpful in the last trimester when there is increasing stress from labor that can increase your blood pressure.
6. MAINTAINS A HEALTHY WEIGHT:
Coconut water is fat-free and low in calories. As pregnancy adds extra weight to your body, coconut water prevents fat accumulation by removing bad cholesterol. It is an excellent replacement for sugary drinks and helps both the mother and the growing fetus to be healthy and fit.
7. NATURAL DRINK:
Coconut water is a tasty natural drink. It has no artificial flavors or harmful components. It is safe for you and your growing fetus as none of its components affect your health.
8. ENERGIZE AFTER TRAINING:
Coconut water is a natural isotonic drink, which helps you gain energy when suffering from dehydration, fatigue, and exhaustion. It is a great revitalizer
. If you exercise regularly to stay fit and strengthen your pelvic muscles, you can opt for coconut water as an energy drink. Hydration also improves skin elasticity, limiting the stretch marks that develop during pregnancy.
9. LOW SUGAR CONTENT:
Excessive sugar intake can lead to an increase in overall blood sugar levels. Coconut water has less sugar than other sports and energy drinks. You won’t gain pregnancy weight, and a diet low in simple sugars will reduce your risk of getting gestational diabetes.
10. ACCELERATES THE GROWTH OF THE FETUS:
Coconut water offers all the nutrients to the mother, essential to maintain and improve her health. Thus, it improves the health, growth, and proper nutrition of the unborn baby.
11. IMPROVES AMNIOTIC FLUID LEVELS:
Drinking coconut water improves the overall health and environment of your growing fetus. Coconut water taken especially in the third trimester increases amniotic fluid levels and improves blood volume and circulation.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS OF COCONUT WATER DURING PREGNANCY?
There is no evidence that coconut water has adverse effects on pregnancy. Like any other fruit or vegetable juice, it also appears to be safe. But there are two things to keep in mind:
•Coconut milk contains sodium, which may not be the right choice for pregnant women with preeclampsia.
•Ripe coconut water can cause constipation.
HOW MUCH COCONUT WATER CAN A PREGNANT WOMAN HAVE?
Moderation is always the key when it comes to eating a healthy diet. You can drink up to a glass of coconut water a day.
Consume the water soon after opening, as a fresh one will contain rich nutrients. Use a clean straw or pour it into a glass and drink.
It is always good to prefer natural coconut water to canned or bottled.
Do not consume coconut water if you react or do not like its taste.
HOW TO SELECT THE CORRECT COCONUT?
To enjoy the various benefits of coconut water, you need to know how to select them properly. These tips can help you buy fresh and tender coconut.
A fresh coconut will be light and sweet and will not contain coconut meat, the white, meaty, tender substance. A ripe or stale one will taste sour.
Selection: Choose medium-sized, clean, green walnuts, as they contain large amounts of water. Don’t choose coconuts that have hard brown shells and gray patches as they indicate ripe nuts.
Water: Shake the coconut vigorously near your ear to check for water. Select the ones that make a good splashing sound. A fresh coconut will contain almost a cup of water.
If you want to store coconuts at home, keep them in a cool place.
BENEFITS OF COCONUT MEAT DURING PREGNANCY:
1. GENERATION OF BREAST MILK:
Regular consumption of coconut meat during pregnancy improves the supply of breast milk after childbirth. Your baby will receive nutritious and rich breast milk. Also, coconut oil helps in the generation of breast milk.
It is also good during the lactation phase as it contains lauric and capric acids. These acids have antiviral, antibacterial, and parasiticidal effects, which protect the baby from diseases.
2. IMPROVES BLOOD CIRCULATION:
Blood volume doubles during pregnancy, causing swelling of the feet and legs. Poor blood circulation aggravates the condition. Coconut consumption improves blood circulation and prevents swelling and pain in the legs.
3. HELPS DIGESTION:
Consuming coconut meat and water prevents constipation as tender coconut meat acts as an excellent laxative. It is one of the best benefits of consuming a coconut in any form during pregnancy.
4. BETTER SLEEP:
Having coconut in combination with poppy seeds and ghee will improve your sleep cycle.
5. INCREASES METABOLISM:
When the coconut is mixed with spices, it helps boost metabolic activities in pregnant women.
COCONUT MILK DURING PREGNANCY:
Coconut milk is a thick, milky liquid obtained by grinding grated coconut meat. It is also an essential ingredient in many foods, especially Southeast Asian dishes.
Coconut can be consumed in any form due to its amazing health benefits. Coconut milk helps increase body fuel. It is completely safe to drink unless you are allergic to it.
BENEFITS OF COCONUT MILK DURING PREGNANCY:
1. ENHANCE IMMUNITY:
Coconut milk contains lauric acid, which is an antibacterial and antiviral fat, useful for pregnant women. This type of fat helps improve the immune system, according to the book “Coconut Oil and the Immune System” by Sherri Neal. The long-chain fatty acids straighten the blood vessels and reduce any blockages in the heart, thus improving the condition of the heart as well.
2. OTHER BENEFITS INCLUDE:
•It contains good amounts of iron, which can treat anemia.
•Improves digestive problems.
•It offers relaxation to the muscles and the nervous system.
•Controls blood sugar levels and blood pressure
•Relieves joint pain and scratches
•Makes your body fit and helps you lose weight
HOW TO PREPARE FRESH COCONUT MILK?
It is advisable to make coconut milk at home instead of opting for a packaged one.
Grate a whole coconut and add a cup and a half of hot water.
Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Once the mixture cools down, strain to get the milk.
Coconut milk taken directly from fresh coconuts will contain approximately 450 calories and 50 g of fat. A cup of coconut milk (approximately 240 g) has the following nutritional values:
•Calories 550
•Fats 50.2gm (all types of fats)
•Cholesterol 0
•Sodium 40gm
•Carbohydrates 14gm (in 250gm of milk)
•Proteins 6gm
•Vitamin C 11%
•Iron 22%
•Calcium 4%
IS CANNED COCONUT MILK GOOD DURING PREGNANCY?
It’s safe to have canned coconut milk during pregnancy, but you need to make sure the can isn’t corroded, rusted, expired, or stored at dangerous temperatures.
Coconut milk contains considerable amounts of saturated fat, that is, 3 g in a tablespoon. Eating too much-saturated fat will increase the levels of good and bad cholesterol in the body. In the case of canned milk, you must take into account your level of consumption, since you should not exceed your daily requirement.
In addition to the above, other reasons why you may not choose canned coconut milk are:
1. BISPHENOL A (BPA):
It is a chemical that is typically used in the lining of cans used for packaged foods. This BPA can gradually leach into acidic, fatty, or salty foods like coconut milk, vegetables, tomatoes, and soups. One study claims that there is a relationship between high levels of BPA in mothers and neurobehavioral problems in babies.
2. GUAR GUM:
Guar gum is an additive present in canned coconut milk. It is a galactomannan, a polysaccharide, and is primarily a ground endosperm of guar beans.
There have been complaints such as severe abdominal cramps, indigestion, flatulence, and diarrhea, as beans are difficult to digest. In a clinical experiment, patients with intestinal problems showed improvement when they stopped using canned coconut milk in their diet.
3. FRUCTOSE MALABSORPTION:
It is a digestive disease characterized by impaired transport of fructose (a simple sugar found in fruits, vegetables, and honey) through the small intestine. Increased fructose levels in the gut cause bacterial overgrowth.
Therefore, it reduces the absorption of water in the intestine. Pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are highly affected by fructose malabsorption.
According to nutrition data, coconut milk contains sugar, including fructose. Therefore, it should be avoided by those affected by IBD and IBS disorders.
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