2014.6.6
Many nutritional advantages, all rolled into one nut
Use this guide — from Megan Roosevelt, author of "Superfoods for Life: Coconut" — to find the best coconut products.
COCONUT OIL
What is it: Extracted from the meat of the coconut. Solid at room temperature, liquid when heated.
Why use it: A heart-healthy substitute for butter, shortening or vegetable oils.
What to look for on the label: Choose organic, virgin, unrefined products, which are minimally processed. Avoid varieties that contain hydrogenated oil and are labeled RBD (refined, bleached, deodorized).
COCONUT MILK
_ A mixture of coconut water and fresh grated coconut.
_ A dairy-free alternative to cow's milk.
_ Buy cartons, not cans. Choose organic and unsweetened versions when possible.
COCONUT FLAKES
_ Flakes from the meat of the coconut.
_ Adds satisfying, healthful fat to a meal or snack.
_ Choose unsweetened varieties that have coconut as the only ingredient.
COCONUT WATER
_ Liquid derived from the fluid inside the coconut.
_ A natural source of electrolytes. An alternative to sports drinks that can contain sugar or artificial sweeteners and colors.
_ Look for unsweetened, unflavored versions.
COCONUT SUGAR
_ Produced from the sap of flower buds cut from coconut palm trees.
_ Classified as a low-glycemic food. Contains nutrients such as iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium. Can be substituted 1:1 for other sugars in baking.
_ Coconut palm sugar.
bc-coconuts-guide
Published: Friday, June 6, 2014 4:00 am
By Jennifer Van Allen Special To The Washington Post | 0 comments
The coconut has attained superfood stat