It’s #NationalNutritionMonth so I’m going to drop a little knowledge about another staple common to Africa that I’m sure you’re already familiar with: coconut!
The humble coconut, found all over Africa and especially in the African coastal countries, packs some serious health benefits. Coconuts contain protein, several important minerals, and a small amount of B vitamins. Interesting fact: coconuts in the botanical world are fibrous one-seeded drupes, and can be loosely defined as either a fruit, nut, or seed.
The minerals in coconut are involved in many functions in your body. Coconuts are especially high in manganese, which is essential for bone health and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol.
They’re also rich in copper and iron, which help form red blood cells, as well as selenium, an important antioxidant that protects your cells from oxidative damage.
On top of all this, coconut water also makes for a great electrolyte drink that rehydrates the body at a cellular level. This is because coconut water contains potassium, magnesium, sodium, and calcium. In two separate research studies, researchers found that coconut water restored hydration after exercise better than water and equal to high-electrolyte sports beverages. -XO