Coconut is the fruit of the palm tree that grows mostly in tropical coastal areas. The creamy coconut meat that lines the interior of the nut's hard outer shell is eaten raw. Dried or mature coconut meat is rich in oil. In fact, more than 90% of the fatty acids in coconut are classified as saturated. This high level of saturation results in an oil that resists turning rancid. Virgin Coconut Oil, for example, will not go rancid even at room temperatures in the tropics for a couple of years.

Benefits Coconut:

• Saturated fatty acids in coconut oil give our cells necessary firmness and integrity.
• Coconut oil is beneficial in the health of our bones. For example dietary fat is needed for calcium to be absorbed in the bones.
• Coconut oil protects the liver from the toxic effects of alcohol and certain drugs.
• Virgin coconut oil will help enhance the immune system.
• Omega-3 fatty acids are better retained in the tissues when the diet is rich in saturated fats.

• Coconut oil is known to increase metabolism and promote weight loss. A diet rich in coconut oil is more effective than low-fat diet at decreasing stored fat.
• Coconut oil has powerful antiviral properties that can kill viruses, including the flu virus. By consuming a couple of spoonfuls of coconut oil daily you can develop an immunity of sorts to the flu.
• Studies suggest that virgin coconut oil may actually reduce harmful LDL cholesterol levels, despite its high saturated fat content.
• Coconut rich diet can help prevent cancers especially colon and breast cancer.
• Coconut oil has super moisturizing effect it is said to promote shine, makes hair thicker and fuller and, keep hair from turning gray. The oil also helps repair damaged hair, offering essential proteins to strengthen and nourish it.
• Coconut oil when use as lip balm can make lips smoother, fuller and radiant.

Uses:

• The coconut water that fills the space in the center of the coconut can be used as a drink.
• The white flesh can be eaten fresh, or is used in a variety of dishes.
• The oil from mature coconut meat is used in vegetable shortening, nondairy creamers, some margarine, and many commercial baked goods; it is also used as an ingredient in shampoos, moisturizing skin lotions, soaps, and various cosmetics.
• The fibers of the husk of the coconut can be used in the production of ropes, mats, brooms and brushes.
• Leaves are used to thatch roofs, and the wood is used as building material or to make furniture.

Buying Tip: When shopping for a coconut, choose one with a firm shell; check it carefully to make sure there are no dark or soft spots on it.