Samboan, Cebu – You may be wondering if a coconut is truly a nut. In reality, and depending on the criteria used, a coconut can be classified as a nut, a fruit, or a seed. Coconuts are generally considered fruits in the culinary world. They are well-known for imparting a sweet, nutty, and possibly tropical flavor to dishes. They grow in tropical areas and are harvested for their white flesh, oil, and juices.

When consumed in moderation, coconut can be a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet. Coconut meat is high in medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), a type of saturated fat that the human body digests much more easily than animal fats. It is a good source of insoluble fiber, which adds bulk to the stool and can help prevent constipation and hemorrhoids. Unlike many other fruits that are high in carbohydrates, coconuts are high in fat. They also contain protein, a variety of minerals, and trace amounts of B vitamins. However, they are not a good source of many other vitamins.

Minerals in coconut are involved in a variety of bodily functions. Manganese, which is essential for bone health and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol, is abundant in coconuts. They're also high in copper and iron, which aid in the formation of red blood cells, as well as selenium, an antioxidant that protects your cells. Coconut meat contains phenolic compounds, which are antioxidants that can help protect cells from oxidative damage, which may aid in the prevention of chronic disease. Coconut is also a source of copper and potassium. // ND II Bea Margaux E. Cornelia, RND