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Health Benefits of Coconuts

Almost every part of the coconut provides its own set of health benefits.

By David McClearyPublished 7 years ago 4 min read
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If you are looking for natural ways to improve your well-being, chances are you know at least some of the health benefits of coconuts. This wonder fruit is making waves in the world of natural health because of the vast array of uses it has. In fact, almost every part of the coconut, including the “meat” of the fruit and the juice can be used to improve health. There is no doubt that awareness of the health benefits of coconuts will continue to grow as more people realize their potential.

Improve Dental Health

In recent years, the dental health benefits of coconuts have begun to gain traction in the medical world. This is not a new discovery, however, as coconut oil was used by many ancient civilizations as a way to improve dental health. In fact, swishing coconut oil in one’s mouth for 15 minutes can significantly decrease the amount of unwanted bacteria that is present. Coconut oils works by binding to the bacteria, and when the oil is spit out, the bacteria goes with it.

Coconut Oil Helps Fight Acne

If you suffer from acne, then chances are you have noticed all of the chemicals on the market to cure acne. While many of these acne treatments do relieve acne symptoms, many of them are harsh, and can actually harm your skin. The oil that is derived from coconuts contains a natural antibacterial agent known as lauric acid. This acid works by fighting the bacteria that clogs pores, irritates skin, and often times results in breakouts. If you are struggling to deal with acne, consider the health benefits of coconuts as a natural way of clearing acne.

Coconut Oil Relieves Arthritis

Perhaps one of the most beneficial aspects of coconuts is the role they play in reducing the inflammation often caused by arthritis. As people grow older, the probability of suffering from arthritis increases significantly, and therefore, more and more people find themselves seeking alternative treatments. Coconut oil contains antibiotic agents which work well in helping eliminate bacteria that can lead to symptoms of arthritis. Many medical professionals are now recommending patients make use of the health benefits of coconuts and their oil.

Coconut Water Counters High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure affects millions of people around the world, and it usually becomes more problematic as people age. Coconuts contain a fluid inside known as coconut water, and this fluid has been shown to reduce blood pressure levels. Coconut water works by boosting the body's ability to metabolize vital minerals and nutrients, such as calcium and magnesium. In addition, the water from coconuts helps the liver function properly, thus reducing inflammatory substances naturally released by the liver. When trying to lower blood pressure, consider the health benefits of coconuts.

Coconut Oil Is a Natural Moisturizer

The causes of dry skin can range from natural factors within the body to problems caused by the environment or the weather. Perhaps one of the most widely regarded health benefits of coconuts is the ability the oil has as a moisturizer. It is no secret that many lotions that are available in the store utilize coconut oil, and there is a good reason for this. Coconut oil has qualities that will improve the texture of skin and can actually help as an anti-aging agent. Coconut oil offers users a way of alleviating dry skin that does not leave an oily film after use, as the name suggests, but instead is absorbed completely. When skin feels dry, you may want to apply coconut oil to the afflicted area, and enjoy some of the health benefits of coconuts for yourself.

Improves Brain Function

One of the more recent discoveries in relation to the healthy properties of coconuts is the ability of the oil to increase brain function. In fact, even one dose of coconut oil has been shown to significantly increase brain function. While researchers are still uncovering the reasons that coconut oil helps the brain, it is believed that the Medium Chain Triglycerides found in the fat of coconut oil improve cognitive functioning. In addition, coconut oil helps the brain produce ketones which can help patients recovering from a lack of oxygen in the brain. While there is still more research required before the medical community knows the extent to which coconut oil aids brain function, there is no doubt that the health benefits of coconuts in brain function are worth exploring.

Coconuts Decrease Bone Loss

Coconut oil plays an important role in increasing the amount of calcium the body produces, which in turn helps bones stay healthy. Furthermore, coconut oil contributes to the level of antioxidants that the body produces naturally. In turn, these factors help the bone structure of the body and even work in preventing osteoporosis. This is especially critical in adults over the age of sixty-five, when the body has more difficulty producing the nutrients that are critical for bone strength. If you are suffering from decreasing bone mass, it may be time to consider the health benefits of coconuts.

Coconut Oil Could Help Cure Alzheimer’s

One of the least understood diseases is Alzheimer's, which affects millions of people around the world. There is no definitive cure for Alzheimer’s and researchers are constantly testing new methods of slowing the progression of the disease. A recent addition to the arsenal of possible treatments is coconut oil. In fact, coconut oil has been found to work better than many alternative Alzheimer’s treatments that are available, with significant improvement being shown after only a single dose. This adds hope to the eventual eradication of the disease, and provides a more natural cure. While the health benefits of coconuts in regard to Alzheimer’s are still being studied, there is no doubt that oil could be integral in fighting the disease.

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About the Creator

David McCleary

Holistic health practitioner. Believes in using natural remedies over traditional medications whenever possible. Volunteers at a recycling plant.

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