is coconut butter healthy

Supports Weight Loss. You will need to use either flakes or shredded unsweetened, dried coconut. This recipe for homemade coconut butter requires only one ingredient: shredded coconut. Approved by: Krish Tangella MD, MBA, FCAP. Please remove adblock to help us create the best medical content found on the Internet. For the butter, place about four cups of coconut into a high-speed blender or food processor. Effects of dietary coconut oil, butter and safflower oil on plasma lipids, lipoproteins and lathosterol levels. To make coconut butter, blend the shredded coconut and coconut oil together to form a smooth paste. For those who don’t love coconut’s texture but like the taste, this will scratch the itch. It is made by blending pieces of dried coconut meat in a food processor for around 20-30 minutes, until the consistency of the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Additionally, fiber can help control blood sugar levels. The saturated fat content in butter is 7.2g, while that in coconut oil is more—11.7g. With five grams of protein per serving and seven grams of carbs, it isn’t too sugary. Still, coconut oil is being touted as healthy! Yummy, right? The iron in coconut butter can help fight an iron deficiency. Serve warm. Coconut butter has several health benefits: It is easy to digest: Coconut butter does not need the action of bile for digestion due to its composition of medium-chain triglycerides. Use it in a curry dish or stir fry for an extra amazing flavor. 5. It is also a source of carbs, protein, and fiber. Nosaka, N., “Effect of ingestion of medium-chain triacylglycerols on moderate- and high-intensity exercise in recreational athletes,” Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, April 2009; 55(2):120-5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19436137 When lauric acid gets converted into the bioactive molecule known as monolaurin, it can effectively kill disease-causing bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Coconut oil has 13.5g total fat, whereas butter has 11.4g of the same. You can find coconut butter at most natural health stores. This is one of my absolute favorite uses for coconut butter. It can provide you with many nutrients and can be beneficial for your general health. Coconut butter is healthy as well as tasty and can be included in all types of cuisines and also in your daily diet. The final product will seem runny, but it tastes similar to thick and sticky nut butter. Coconut butter is made out of coconut meat, also called “copra”. Melt it and pour it over a sweet potato or winter squash. Cox, C., Sutherland, W., Mann, J., De Jong, S., Chisholm, A., & Skeaff, M. (1998). Sanfilippo, D., Practical Paleo: A Customized Approach to Health and a Whole Foods Lifestyle (USA: Victory Belt Publishing Inc., 2012), 244, 358, 394. Combine the base, orange cream, and mint ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Slice the squash down the middle lengthwise and place it face down in an oven-safe baking dish. 2. Cooled coconut oil appears to develop the consistency of butter. It’s so healthy … Keep in mind that although the lauric acid in coconut butter is safe for breastfeeding and pregnant women in normal amounts, larger amounts should be avoided. Coconut oil predicts a beneficial lipid profile in pre-menopausal women in the Philippines.Asia Pacific journal of clinical nutrition, 20(2), 190. http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-coconut-butter.htm (accessed on 2/2/2015), http://gopaleo.org/benefits-eating-coconut-butter/ (accessed on 2/2/2015), http://simplysmoothies.org/coconut-butter-how-to-make-it-and-why-it-deserves-to-be-in-your-smoothies/ (accessed on 2/2/2015), http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/article10132.htm (accessed on 2/2/2015). Coconut Butter Health Benefits Enhances Immunity. B., Duazo, P. L., Kuzawa, C. W., & Adair, L. S. (2011). Cacao butter is full of antioxidants and essential fatty acids, making it an excellent healthy fat for those eating a ketogenic diet. It’s easily absorbed by the hair to reduce damage and promote healthy, gorgeous locks. What is Coconut Butter Coconut butter is made from the whole raw flesh of coconuts before being dehydrated at minimal heat and ground into a delicious and creamy paste. The fat in the butter could also prevent blood sugar spikes, which protects you against insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. One tablespoon of coconut butter has about 2 grams of dietary fiber. The muscles can immediately use the fuel source provided by MCTs, which is a reason why MCT-based foods are popular with the athletes and Paleo and ketogenic diet followers. One of the reasons for this is plant-based fats contain … Room temperature will create solid and spreadable coconut butter. As noted above, coconut butter is a source of MCTs, which are rapidly absorbed in the body as a fat-burning energy source rather than being stored. One tablespoon of coconut butter provides 2 grams of fiber as well as small amounts of potassium, magnesium, and iron. Like coconut oil, coconut butter comes from coconut meat (Cocos nucifera). Go ahead and add it to all your favorite recipes. While coconut oil is made by cold-pressing the oil out of the coconut meat, coconut butter is made by pureeing both the meat and the oil. Like coconut oil, coconut butter offers many hair benefits, including preventing dandruff and promoting hair growth. Coconut butter is usually expected to contain pieces of coconut meat. Low-carb, high-fat weight loss diets, including the keto diet, favor coconut oil, claiming it can help bust belly fat by inducing ketosis. This can take 10–20 minutes depending on the machine used. Interestingly, C-reactive protein (a general marker of inflammation) was significantly lower in the coconut oil group compared to both the olive oil and butter groups. The Health Benefits of Cacao Butter. However, you can save a lot of money by making the butter rather than buying it. Iron is essential for the body to get enough oxygen, and it affects hair, skin, nails, and brain function. The iron in the butter is also crucial for the development of healthy red blood cells. The fat will also help you feel full for a longer period, while also slowing down digestion. The flakes will often become a smoother butter than shredded coconut. It moisturizes the hair to prevent dandruff and dryness. Coconut butter should not be refrigerated, and it keeps for around 2-3 years. In storage, the oil tends to separate and rise to the top. For some specific groups, though, notably infants and adults with difficulty digesting fats, coconut butter may have a very useful nutritional role. “Monolaurin: A Wonder Immune Boosting Component,” PR Newswire, May 15, 2013; http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/monolaurin-a-wonder-immune-boosting-component-207501061.html,  last accessed April 17, 2017. 3. Coconut oil will become clear when melted; but the butter will maintain its white color. Some also suggest that coconut butter helps improve certain types of dementia, but the data again is far from … Rele, A., “Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage,” Journal of Cosmetic Science, March 2003; 54(2):175-92. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12715094. Roussell, M., “Ask the Diet Doctor: Cococonut Oil vs. Coconut Butter,” Shape; http://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/diet-tips/ask-diet-doctor-coconut-oil-vs-coconut-butter, last accessed April 17, 2017. Butter, after all, has 100 calories, 11 grams of fat, ... You may have heard that coconut oil contains a “healthy” saturated fat called medium-chain triglycerides. Your new treat can be eaten straight out of the jar, added to curry dishes, soups, stir fries, toast, or melted over berries. The lauric acid in coconut butter has been found to have strong immune-boosting ability. Every part of the coconut can be used during the making of coconut milk, coconut water, coconut flour, coconut sugar, coconut nectar, and coconut butter. In a muffin tin, scoop a quarter cup of the batter into each muffin container with natural parchment muffin papers, and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. When the squash has fully cooked, remove it from the oven. Similar to coconut oil, coconut butter is a nutritional powerhouse that could potentially reduce the risk of disease. Bake for approximately 35 to 45 minutes, or until it is fork tender and the edges have begun to brown. It's the clear fluid inside the coconut, not to be confused with coconut milk, which is an emulsion of coconut water and fresh grated coconut. You can keep your butter in an airtight container at room temperature in a cupboard or kitchen cabinet for a minimum of one month. Coconut butter works as a natural hair mask or as a conditioner. Therefore, it is best to stir the coconut butter before using it. The lauric acid in coconut butter in particular, is often used to treat viral infections, and may be especially effective against the common cold, the flu, genital herpes, genital warts, and cold sores. You will process for about 10 to 15 minutes, or less, when using a blender, or about 15 to 20 minutes if using a food processor. Provides Iron. Coconut butter has a smooth texture and a rich coconut flavour, providing all the essential nutrients of the coconut. Is Coconut Butter Healthy? What are the health benefits of coconut butter? Production of coconut butter. That being said, it is not the only coconut-derived food you should know about. Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. Add the carrots and raisins, and combine together. From a nutritional standpoint, coconut butter is a significant fat source, but that's not as scary as it sounds, Harbstreet says. The following article will explore the unique butter, its health benefits, and how to make and use this unique version of coconut. It has a hint of sweetness, but it’s not overpowering. With healthy eating on the rise, there is a growing awareness about healthier fat substitutes. I also love drizzling coconut butter over chilled fruits – this makes the coconut butter harden a little bit and adds some crunch to the fruit. The following are a couple of coconut butter recipes to help you get full enjoyment of this unique spreadable butter. Available at health food stores, coconut butter is a gift from nature that has only recently been recognized for its outstanding health-enhancing properties. For this reason, the butter may also provide a boost in athletic performance. RELATED: 8 New Healthy Oils to Cook With. You may be familiar with Coconut Manna, which is essentially the branded version of coconut butter. Unlike other juices, unflavored coconut water is low in sugar and calories. “Artisana Coconut butter Nutrition Facts & Calories,” SELFNutritionData; http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/custom/627740/2, last accessed April 17, 2017. 8. Gopal’s Raw Organic Coconut Butter. Whisk the eggs, coconut oil or butter, molasses, pure vanilla extract, and maple syrup together in a large mixing bowl. Coconut butter can be found in most health stores, but it’s also possible to make it at home using just shredded coconut, coconut oil and a food processor or a blender. For some time, coconut has been hyped as a prominent superfood with many health benefits, including boosting immunity and aiding in weight loss. You will want to stop the machine occasionally to scrape down the sides and push the coconut into the mixture. While the research continues, coconut butter falls somewhere between a healthful and a harmful fat. Feranil, A. This turns it into a lusciously creamy substance, with a slightly grainy texture that is most pleasant, and a subtly sweet, irresistible coconut flavor. According to CoconutResearchCenter.org, “one third of the world’s population depends on coconut to some degree for their food and their economy.” Coconut meat, which is what coconut … Coconut oil is as unhealthy as beef dripping and butter, say US heart experts. The high fiber in coconut butter also helps lower cholesterol and offers frequent bowel movements. Kim, B. D. (2002). Lauric acid is useful for those who want to enhance immunity and eliminate dangerous bacteria, fungi and viruses in our body. 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This coconut butter is divine to eat as is, but it’s also used in these recipes: 3-Ingredient Vegan Caramel Sauce; Vegan Cheesecake with Salted Caramel Fudge Sauce; Caramel Fudge Vegan Chocolates; For more delicious homemade nut butters check out these recipes: How To Make Cashew Butter; How To Make Almond Butter ; Homemade Peanut Butter… Oh yes… Coconut is truly a superfood. Coconut water is not water with coconut flavor added. Top with a variety of other ingredients like almonds or currants. Add it to a smoothie like this piña colada one. Trusted websites like Amazon have a wide selection of coconut butter for every buyer. Not only does this give it a consistency closer to regular butter, but it produces a much more intense coconut flavor as well as providing some health boosts you might not get from the oil alone. Allow the muffins to cool before adding the frosting. In storage, the oil tends to separate and rise to the top. Other nutrients in coconut butter are: protein; potassium; magnesium; iron; … Coconut butter has several health benefits: Health-conscious people should definitely give coconut butter and other coconut products a try. Here’s the nutritional breakdown 1 tablespoon serving of coconut butter, also known as creamed, shredded coconut flakes[*]: 96 Calories; 3 g Carbohydrate; 9.6 g Fat Amarasiri, W. A. D. L. (2006). 10 Ways to Control Blood Sugar without Medication, Coconut Butter: Nutrition, Health Benefits, and Recipes, http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/custom/627740/2, http://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/diet-tips/ask-diet-doctor-coconut-oil-vs-coconut-butter, http://www.12minuteathlete.com/coconut-butter/, http://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/coconut-oil-vs-coconut-butter, http://sweetspreads.com/how-coconut-butter-can-aid-in-weight-loss/, http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/monolaurin-a-wonder-immune-boosting-component-207501061.html, http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0024320597011430?via%3Dihub, http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1138-lauric%20acid.aspx?activeingredientid=1138&activeingredientname=lauric%20acid, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19436137, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12715094. You can also toss it with chicken or shrimp, or use it to replace dairy butter for baked goods. Place the pan into the freezer to set, and serve cold. Have you ever tried slathering peanut butter on pancakes? “How Coconut Butter Can Aid in Weight Loss,” Sweet Spreads, April 6, 2015; http://sweetspreads.com/how-coconut-butter-can-aid-in-weight-loss/, last accessed April 17, 2017. 4. To make sure you are getting enough, you may want to keep an eye on it. Because coconut butter is made from the meat of the coconut, you get all the health benefits, including a pop of protein and hint of minerals, in addition to the coconut buttery goodness. Coconut butter can therefore help you maintain a boosted metabolism for up to a 24-hour timeframe. On the other hand, coconut butter is about 60% oil, and although it contains medium-chain fatty acids, it also has lots of fiber and other important nutrients. Many nutritional minds believe coconut oil is one of the healthiest foods on the planet. Coconut butter may help as a high-fiber food. That’s because coconut butter contains all parts of the coconut, including the water, meat, and oil. Enig, M. G. (1999, September). Butter contains butyrate, a type of fat that may improve digestive health, decrease inflammation, and support weight control according to human and animal studies. “The Amazing Wonder of Coconut Butter (And How to Actually Use It),” 12 Minute Athlete; http://www.12minuteathlete.com/coconut-butter/, last accessed April 17, 2017. 2. Coconut butter possesses many of these same benefits. of Pharmacy, Chosun University, Kwangju). It has more fiber than the oil. Coconut Sugar: Benefits, Side Effects, and How to Make It, Sources: It is easily absorbed through the wall of the small intestine and is directly transported to … Coconut: in support of good health in the 21st century. Preparation and characterization of solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) made from coconut butter stabilized curdlan (Doctoral dissertation, MS Thesis, Dept. Papamandjaris, A., et al.,“Medium chain fatty acid metabolism and energy expenditure: Obesity treatment implications,” Life Sciences, February 1998; http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0024320597011430?via%3Dihub You may also see coconut butter -- coconut flesh that’s been pureed into a creamy spread. Adverts are the main source of Revenue for DoveMed. It was confirmed that this butter is packed with lauric acid. Coconut butter also has beneficial antiviral and antifungal characteristics. Coconut butter benefits include healthy, shiny hair. Research shows that the medium-chain fatty acids in coconut butter may treat and prevent diseases, such as gallbladder disease, Crohn’s disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and even cancer. So coconut water is a type of juice. Coconut fats. The medium-chain fatty acids or medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut butter will get burned for energy rather than being stored as fat. Similar to coconut oil, coconut butter is a nutritional powerhouse that could potentially reduce the risk of disease. Although some people may not have heard of coconut butter, it has many similar benefits as coconut oil such as promoting weight loss, preventing viruses, boosting immunity and athletic performance, and improving the health of hair. Coconut butter benefits the body by reducing the risk … Also provide a boost in athletic performance peanut butter on pancakes evenly each. Seven grams of fiber as well as small amounts of potassium,,... Homemade butter eggs, coconut butter the edges have begun to brown a! Form a smooth paste a natural hair mask or as a natural hair mask as. Molecule known as monolaurin, it is also a source of carbs, is... Eye on it US create the best Medical content found on the planet Oils to Cook.... Or until it is best to consult with your health care provider before using coconut butter stabilized (. 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