Nicknamed “The Tree of Life”, the coconut palm is revered by a growing band of supporters – including scientists – who are singing the healing and restorative praises of coconuts.
From culinary creations to magic beauty potions, coconuts are versatile and in demand. What is it about this exotic food that continues to tantalise and intimidate us at the same time?
The term coconut refers to the whole coconut palm or the seed, or the fruit, which, botanically, is a drupe, not a nut.
Coconut supports immune system health: it is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-parasite.
A natural source of quick energy, coconut also enhances physical and athletic performance, boosting your metabolism as it burns as fuel rather than stored as body fat. In addition to this, coconut water contains crucial electrolytes that help in maintaining hydration during and after physical exercise.
This popular food improves digestion and absorption of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals and as well as benefits insulin secretion and symptoms associated with diabetes.
Turn to coconut to help reduce the risk of heart health and improve good cholesterol (HDL) in the body, as well as protect against kidney disease and bladder infection.
Cytokinins, kinetin and trans-zeatin present in coconut have anti thrombotic, anti-carcinogenic and anti-ageing effects on the body. It helps keep hair and skin healthy and youthful looking, prevents wrinkles, age spots and provides sun protection.
Coconut oil fights bacteria responsible for tooth decay and could be a healthy, non-chemical additive in toothpaste and mouthwash, Irish research suggests. Scientists found that when the oil was treated with digestive enzymes it became a powerful killer of mouth bugs that can lead to tooth decay.
If that isn’t enough, did you also know that this superfood is a planet-friendly fuel for machinery? Biodiesel has been making the rounds as a fossil fuel alternative, and coconut trees happen to be one of the plants that can produce oil in workable quantities. Not only that, but coconuts can perform multiple roles: as a base substance, an additive, or a direct substitute for petroleum diesel.
So what are you waiting for? Come in and taste our delicious breadfruit and coconut salad currently featuring on The Brasserie menu.
BRASSERIE BREADFRUIT AND COCONUT SALAD
Ingredients
local homemade baked coconut chips
roasted breadfruit
avocado, sliced
mixed greens
seasoning peppers, thinly diced
olive oil
salt and pepper
Method
Combine breadfruit, mixed greens, seasoning pepper, olive oil and salt and pepper, to taste. Layer the fresh local avocado on the serving plate and top with breadfruit mixture. Sprinkle with crunchy coconut chips and enjoy the sweet tastes of Cayman’s summer.