Coconut milk: For a radiant complexion

Mar 14, 2011

WHEN Asha was battling skin and hair problems, a nutritionist advised her take coconut milk daily. However, she was adamant, citing a high oil content in coconuts.

By Vision Reporter
WHEN Asha was battling skin and hair problems, a nutritionist advised her take coconut milk daily. However, she was adamant, citing a high oil content in coconuts.

Dr. Augustus Rubaramira, a nutritionist in Kampala, says in developed countries there was a mass campaign against saturated fats, including coconut oil.

Mohammad Roshani of Indian Natural Remedy Centre in Kampala asserts that about 92% of coconut flesh is saturated fat, but it is mostly made up of short and medium chain fatty acids that are used as energy and not stored as body fat.

“Coconut milk fat is easily broken down compared to processed fats,” explains Roshani, adding that coconut flesh is rich in lauric acid, an essential fatty acid needed to build and maintain the immune system. The only other source of lauric acid with such high concentrations is breast milk.

“The acid is easily metabolised by the body, and also promotes strong bones and healthy brain development,” says Roshani.

He adds that coconut oil contains anti-carcinogenic, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-microbial properties that boost immunity.

But Rubaramira says coconut is highly nutritious because it is rich in calcium (for strong bones and teeth), potassium, chloride, vitamin A and E.

Coconut milk checks blood pressure, stabilises blood sugar and heals skin ailments. Its oil also aids hair growth and a smooth skin.

“People use coconut oil as a supplement for relief from kidney problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV and cancer,” explains Roshani.

“Its milk is used in preparation of food because of its sweet taste and aroma,” he adds. A coconut goes for between sh2,000 and sh3,000.

The fruit has curative benefits such as fighting bacteria and germs, Roshani says.

Coconut milk also contains substances that ease digestion, guarding against constipation. Coconut milk also aids colon cleansing, thus preventing colon cancer.

Preparation of coconut milk
Ingredients
1 coconut
500ml - hot water

Method
Pierce the coconut and drain the fluid. Slit the coconut into half and remove the outer (brown) cover. Cut into small pieces and put in a blender. Add 300ml of warm water and grind to a fine paste.

Alternatively, after slitting the coconut, scoop the white pulp and grind in a blender or a mortar. Put the paste in a sieve or a clean cotton cloth and squeeze the milk out. Use immediately or refrigerate.

Compiled by Agnes Kyotalengerire














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