Going Coconuts

Coconut products are being touted as the latest “super food”. But what do we really know about the health effects of these products and why is there so much media hype surrounding them? Lets take look at coconut milk.

Coconut milk, along with almond milk, has recently become a very popular milk substitute for vegans and those with allergies or milk intolerance. However, considering that for most this drink will be substituting milk, there are a few points to consider:

· Coconut milk has only 1 gram of protein compared to soy and cow’s milk which has 8 grams of protein per serving.

· Coconut milk has less calcium than milk. In fact, it takes 3 cups of coconut milk to equal the calcium in just one glass of milk. Pretty important to consider if there are no other sources calcium rich foods in your diet.

· Coconut milk has a higher amount of saturated fat (5 grams) than low-fat 1%/fat-free milk (1 gram or less). The type of saturated fat in both are indeed different, but it is not yet clear what those exact effects are on our health. Heart health being the main concern.  

The composition of coconut milk is not close enough to that of soy and cow’s milk to suffice as a “milk substitute”.  In addition, the fat in coconut milk has not been thoroughly studied in humans to come to a definite conclusion. It can certainly be enjoyed as a special treat once in a while in moderation. In the mean time, let’s not go nuts over coconut milk.





Check back next week when we take a look at coconut water.

By: Iliana Roldan