Many cultures use coconuts regularly in meal preparation, but unfortunately, the standard American diet has not embraced the use of coconuts as other cultures have. And, it’s really too bad! As others have long recognized, coconuts are definitely superfoods packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber. Coconuts are also rich in lauric acid, which is known for being antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and boosts the immune system.
Fresh coconut water (or juice) is one of the highest sources of electrolytes known to man, and can even be used to prevent dehydration in cases of diarrhea or strenuous exercise . . . a much better choice than a sports drink.
Some of the areas that are most misunderstood, however, include the difference between young and mature coconuts, as well as the different types of coconut extractions.
Young coconuts, for example, have more water and soft, gel-like coconut meat, while mature coconuts have less water and firmer coconut meat. While both young and mature coconuts are good for you, the mature coconut may have slightly higher healthy fatty acid content, while young coconut may have a bit of an advantage water-wise. This is because young coconut water is high in B vitamins, minerals (especially calcium, magnesium and potassium), contains the highest form of electrolytes in nature, is completely sterile and so close to the structure of human blood that it can even be transfused directly!
Most people think that coconut milk is the liquid inside the coconut, but this is not the case. The liquid inside the coconut is known as coconut water or juice. Coconut cream, on the other hand, is made from pressing the coconut meat, and coconut milk is made from the expressed juice of grated coconut meat and water.
Coconut oil is the fatty oil that comes from the coconut meat. It’s important to note that coconut oils on the market vary dramatically in terms of quality. Low-quality coconut oils, which should be avoided, are processed by chemical extraction, using solvent extracts, which produces higher yields and is quicker and less expensive. However, the oils contain chemical residues and many are also hydrogenated, bleached and deodorized.
High-quality coconut oil is a completely different product and is truly the healthiest oil you can consume. It is a much safer alternative to other popular oils such as canola oil, where most of its omega-3s are transformed into trans-fats during the deodorization process, which increases the dangers of chronic diseases.
In summary, coconuts can add flavor, variety and--best of all--healthy nutrients to your diet. Coconuts are amazing in assisting the body to:
Lose weight, or maintain good weight
Reduce the risk of heart disease
Lower cholesterol
Improve conditions involving diabetes and chronic fatigue
Improve Crohn’s, IBS, and other digestive disorders
Prevent other disease with its powerful antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agents
Increase metabolism and promotes healthy thyroid function
Boost daily energy
Rejuvenate skin and prevent wrinkles
Based on requests, we will devote one of our upcoming classes to opening, using, and preparing recipes with coconuts! Stay tuned!! 
