Coconut is a versatile and nutritious food. In this sense, flour made from coconut is tasty, nutritious and highly functional.
A nutritious, tasty and highly functional food. Too good to be true? Not even! Coconut flour has all these benefits, combined with a low glycemic index. In a complementary way, this food does not contain gluten and, therefore, can be used in recipes for pies and cakes, being another ally in the diet.
Another benefit of coconut flour is the high concentration of fiber, which, in addition to being important for the digestive system, increases the feeling of satiety. Thus, the food has important attractions not only for those who keep an eye on the scale, but also for those who want to have a healthier and more balanced diet – as well as being delicious, of course.
To include the food on the menu, it is possible to add it, for example, to yogurts, farofas, fresh fruits and cake batters. Another way to use coconut flour in food is in juices and ice creams. Therefore, the versatility of the food is another advantage for those who consume it.
How is coconut flour made?
Since coconut flour is made from the dried fruit pulp, it is rich in fiber. In this way, the food increases the feeling of satiety and improves bowel function, adding important health gains.
On the other hand, coconut pulp is also a source of fats, which are partially removed during the flour dehydration process. It is important to highlight that coconut fats, despite being saturated, are metabolized directly by the liver. Conclusion: they saw energy immediately, without being accumulated in the body.
It is worth remembering that each manufacturer produces coconut flour with its own composition. Therefore, it is essential to read the nutritional table of each one and, based on this analysis, prefer those that do not add sugar to the composition.
Another important reminder when including coconut flour in your diet: pay attention to your daily nutritional needs and consult a nutritionist.
Do it at home
Did you know that it is possible to make coconut flour at home? Check out the step by step below:
Super Mama Fit
Step 1: buy natural coconut pulp. At this stage, it is important to purchase a quality product.
Step 2: measure a cup of the pulp and, in a pan, place it in the oven (200ºC) to dehydrate. Leave for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Remove the coconut flour from the oven, stir and let it dehydrate for another 5 minutes.
Step 4: Once dry, remove the flour from the oven. Then you can consume it.
Paso 5: Finally, store the coconut flour in a cool, moisture-free place.
Coconut flour – Pros and cons
Flour made with coconut helps in the weight loss process and reduces the risk of diabetes by controlling the entry of sugar into the blood. So, discover other benefits of the food:
- It can be consumed by people who are intolerant or allergic to gluten, that is, those with celiac disease.
- Provides energy for the body, in addition to contributing to blood sugar control.
- It helps control cholesterol, which is why it is an ally for the heart.
- It can surpass some flours in nutrients and fiber. In this way, it helps with a balanced diet.
- As it is rich in fiber, it helps with digestion.
- Fortifies the immune system, as it contains important nutrients.
Although coconut flour is not contraindicated, it is important to consume it in moderation, as the amount of saturated fats is high.
Coconut flour – Easy recipes
How about more tips for healthy eating? Learn how to make biomass brigadeiro, with just 35 kcal.
Sources: My life, Conquer your life, Take care, GreenMe,
Images: Mercado Livre, Super Mama Fit, Exame, Super Clube Fit.
