Coconut milk is a delicious ingredient that can be used in many different recipes. It’s high in saturated fats and low in glycemic load. It can help make you feel less bloated and can even reduce allergies.
Make your own
If you want to get the most out of your diet, you should consider making coconut milk. This plant-based beverage is packed with vitamins, minerals, and energy-boosting fats.
Luckily, it’s easy to make. You need a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time. The end product is tasty and nutritious and can be used in smoothies, desserts, soups, stews, or as a base for vegan eggnog.
You can add guar gum to your homemade coconut milk for a smoother consistency. You can also top it with cinnamon for an extra dose of flavor.
Homemade coconut milk is also more affordable than the stuff you can buy at the store. You can make a batch of your own in less than 10 minutes, and it’s rich in nutrients.
High in saturated fats
Saturated fats have long been considered a culprit for obesity and cardiovascular disease. So for decades, nutrition experts have recommended limiting our intake of saturated fats. But more recent studies have cast doubt on the link between the two.
The main reason is that various foods contain varying concentrations of saturated fats. In some instances, these types of fats have positive health effects. However, in others, they are unhealthy. Therefore, it is essential to understand the difference between these types of fats.
Coconut oil is a type of saturated fat that has been associated with a variety of health benefits. One benefit is that it can increase HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Another is that it can boost the immune system. Other benefits include antimicrobial properties.
Low glycemic load
Coconut milk is high in calories but low in glycemic load. It contains good fats and nutrients that keep blood sugar levels under control. In addition, it is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which can help you manage your weight.
Unlike dairy milk, coconut milk does not contain added sugars. However, it does have some carbohydrates. This means you must monitor your intake to avoid spiking your blood sugar. You should always consult your doctor or diabetes educator before adding coconut to your diet.
If you’re concerned about the carbs in your diet, you may want to replace coconut milk with another beverage. For instance, you can substitute a tablespoon of coconut milk with a tablespoon of milk in coffee. Or you can replace a spoonful of dairy cream in savory dishes.
Can cause allergies
If you’re allergic to tree nuts, you may also be allergic to coconut. This is a rare allergy, and it’s best managed by avoiding coconut and its derivatives. You can test for a coconut allergy with a challenge or skin prick test.
A person with a coconut allergy has a hypersensitivity to the proteins found in coconut. When the protein binds to the specific IgE antibodies of the body, the immune system responds by releasing inflammatory response symptoms. These may include hives, swelling, itching, and diarrhea.
In most cases, the symptoms of a coconut allergy are gastrointestinal. Some people have experienced a rash after eating coconut, but others experience an allergic reaction to the oil. Fortunately, coconut milk is a safe alternative for people with a dairy allergy.
Keep leftovers fresh
How long does coconut milk last in the fridge? It’s best to consume it within three to five days. However, if you’re on a time crunch, freezing it is an option. The resulting cubes will keep for about a month in the freezer.
The best way to store your savior is to ensure the container is sealed correctly, or you’ll end up with a mess. Fixing the leftovers in ice cube trays is a great way to do this. These cubes will keep the coconut milk fresh and allow you to serve it simultaneously. You can then use it to make smoothies and hot soups.
While a well-constructed batch of coconut milk will not last you an entire month, it’s still best to freeze it, so it’s ready to go when needed. Alternatively, you can pour it into a zip-loc bag and stash it in your freezer for future use.
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