Is Coconut the Answer to Weight Loss?

Food trends changed every year, just like in the world of fashion. Whole Foods predicted that 2017 was going to be the year of coconuts, and not just your basic coconut water, but think coconut chips, butter, and ice cream.

Nutritionists were consulted regarding this coconut hype on weight loss. Is it really worth he hype? Let’s find out!

Coconuts are Low in Carbs

Coconuts are low in macro-nutrients, if you are trying to cut back on carbs to lose weight. According to the the U.S. Department of Agriculture, just a tablespoon of unsweetened coconut flakes has only 3.5 grams of carbs.

Since the sugar in coconut is easily absorbed, flavorful and unprocessed, it mixes well with the cooked foods and freshly prepared smoothies that fit your low-carb-diet.

Coconuts Can Help Contain Your Cravings

Coconuts have the properties that can keep you fuller longer. The fat content in coconut is a medium-chain triglyceride, which helps with satiety, Also, the fruit provides sugar for quick energy while the fat digests slowly. This combination gives you long-lasting energy and prevents cravings and hunger by keeping your blood sugar levels in check.

You can add fresh coconut to juices and smoothies or coconut flakes salads and cooked dishes.

Conclusion

But, it is important to keep an eye on your coconut consumption, because, despite its weight-loss benefits and low-carb status, coconut is still high in calories with lots of saturated fat.

If you are going to add coconut into your diet and lose weight, you should limit your daily intake to 10% of your diet. If you are eating 1,600 calories daily, that is about 160 calories worth of the coconut.

Also, the fat contained in coconut is somewhat different from the more traditional fats that we eat. This means that they are metabolised differently than the longer-chain fats such as in olive oil or meat. Unlike the fat in these foods, the fat in coconut does not get stored as fat tissue, and it is used for energy instead.

Theoretically, this could help you lose weight, but there are still no clinical studies proving that coconut consumption leads to weight loss.

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