I am absolutely nuts about coconuts and their exceptional health benefits.

The unique combination of fatty acids found in coconuts have been scientifically proven to have medicinal benefits. Highly nutritious, rich in fibre and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, the humble coconut has made a dramatic comeback to become a miracle superfood for the modern generation.

Personally, I love incorporating coconuts into both my diet and my beauty regime;

Cook with coconut oil

I use biona organic coconut butter for high temperature cooking. A lot of clients ask what is the difference between using olive oil and coconut oil for cooking and the difference is that unrefined olive oil has a lower smoke point than unrefined coconut oil and thus isn’t the ideal oil for higher temperatures. Oils can break down beyond their smoke points which starts to change the molecular structure and integrity of the oil.

Drink coconut water

I drink coconut water, particularly after a workout to replenish my fluids and provide essential rehydrating properties. Although if drinking coconut water, make sure you get 100% coconut water like Vita Coco or Waitrose’s blue carton version. You want to avoid any coconut water that comes from concentrate.

Eat coconuts

I eat raw coconut as a snack and find it’s a workout in itself trying to open them (I usually smash mine on my step and also make three holes in the top first with a cork screw and stick a straw in to drink the fresh coconut water).

I also put dried dessicated coconut on my breakfast and use coconut milk ( my favourite is the tinned organic biona coconut milk) in soups, smoothies, curry and casseroles!

Coconuts and your beauty regime

Coconut oil makes a lovely organic natural moisturiser and intensive night time face cream. It can also be used to remove eye make up and a small amount through dry hair ends will tame frizz.

Mix coconut oil with sea salt or sugar for a natural exfoliating scrub that will leave your skin looking amazing and smelling gorgeous.

Coconut oil in your first aid kit

Coconut oil is a godsend for new mums. Not only is it a great cream for keeping skin supple and reducing stretch marks on a pregnant tummy, but once baby is born it will it soothe nipples when breastfeeding and also acts as a brilliant natural nappy rash cream for babies.

Coconut oil can help sooth eczema and psoriasis and it’s anti fungal properties make it an excellent topical cream for yeast and fungal infections. A spoonful in hot lemon can help with a speedy recovery from colds and flu. Apply topically to coldsores, bites and stings for a natural and speedy recovery.

Top 10 Health Benefits of Coconuts

1. Supports immune system health: it is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-parasite
2. Provides a natural source of quick energy and enhances physical and athletic performance
3. Improves digestion and absorption of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals
4. Improves insulin secretion and symptoms associated with diabetes
5. Helps protect the body from cancers due to insulin reduction, removal of free radicals that cause premature aging and degenerative disease
6. Reduces risk of heart health and improves good cholesterol (HDL)
7. Restores and supports thyroid function
8. Helps protect against kidney disease and bladder infection
9. Promotes weight loss
10. Helps keep hair and skin healthy and youthful looking, prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, age spots, and provides sun protection

To chat further about nutrition and how I can help you feel more energised, healthy and fighting fit get in touch! Contact me on 07748 298728 or email gaynor@www.b-fit.uk.com