Coconut milk benefits: find out why vegans swear by this milk variant

Derived from the white flesh of mature brown coconuts, coconut milk has a thick consistency and a rich, creamy texture. Unlike coconut water, the milk does not occur naturally. Coconut milk is made by grating flesh from a brown coconut, soaking it in water and then straining it to produce a milk-like consistency.

Thai and other Southeast Asian cuisines commonly include coconut milk. It’s also popular in Hawaii, India and certain South American and Caribbean countries.

Coconut milk is a high-calorie food and about 93% of its calories come from saturated fats. The milk is also a good source of several vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Let's take a look at some potential health benefits of this milk that makes it so popular amongst vegans. 

Also watch: Coconut water: A refreshing drink with a plethora of benefits

Effects on metabolism

Coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which researchers have linked with weight loss. Studies conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, USA, indicate that MCTs work to stabilize gut microbiota as instability can lead to obesity. A 2018 study by the National Institutes of Health in the United States also reveals that MCTs increase insulin sensitivity, and many researchers revealed that this sensitivity promotes weight loss.

Effects on cholesterol 

Eating coconut milk could improve your cholesterol levels. In a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health in the United States, people who consumed coconut milk lowered their LDL or ’bad’ cholesterol while their HDL or ‘good’ cholesterol improved. Healthy cholesterol levels are important for heart health.

Effect of anti-inflammation

Animal studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health in the United States found that coconut extracts reduced inflammation and swelling in injured rats and mice. Thereby, coconut milk may help in lowering joint pain and inflammation and can have remarkable results for those suffering from autoimmune inflammatory conditions.

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