Coconut things you really need to try

I have a huge amount of love for all things coconut and want to share these amazing coconut things you really need to try. My passion for coconut-related produce began with coconut oil. Not only did it do wonders for my health, it made a dramatic difference to my skin last year. I still use coconut oil as my preferred moisturiser and cooking oil. I keep separate jars in the bathroom and kitchen and both get used every single day. And coconut water also reminds me of long, lazy days on the beach in Thailand. Drinking fresh water straight from the coconut is divine.

Once I began researching the amazing benefits of coconut, it led me to question whether its incredible cholesterol reducing properties could be the reason particular populations in Papua New Guinea and New Zealand (whose staple food is coconut) have no incidence whatsoever of stroke and heart disease.

As its popularity has increased, so have the number of coconut-derived products available to us. If you haven’t tried every single one of the following, you are totally missing out!

Coyo (coconut yoghurt)

The first time I tried this stuff I fell in love! After months of not eating dairy, I didn’t realise just how much I’d missed smooth, creamy yoghurt for breakfast. I’d go as far as to say that coconut yoghurt actually beats the regular dairy stuff. With the smooth, subtle flavour of coconut, the cherry version has to be my absolute favourite. Coyo can be ordered online or at your nearest whole food store.

Coconut water

Drinking cool, fresh coconut water always reminds me of holidays in south east Asia. This stuff is best served straight from the coconut with a straw. Since that’s virtually impossible in the UK, the carton variety offer a pretty close second. Crammed with electrolytes, whether enjoyed in a glass or added to smoothies, coconut water is fantastic for post-workout hydration.

Chocolate coconut chips

Chocolate can be tough to resist, but thanks to snacks such as Go Raw’s Chocolate Coconut Crisps, you get all the benefits of raw chocolate and the goodness of coconut in a snack you can enjoy without the guilt. These chips are irresistible straight from the bag, but can also be used to top a multitude of raw or traditionally-made cakes, ice cream and other desserts.

Coconut jam

If you haven’t tried this delicious alternative to traditional spreads, you absolutely have to. Coconut jam is a fantastic, healthier alternative to many jams and butters. Simply made with 100 per cent pure coconuts, there’s nothing else added and absolutely no refined sugars. This delicious, natural jam boasts a caramel-esque taste and similar consistency to Dulce de Leche, making it an excellent caramel substitute. Coconut Merchants’ 100 per cent coconut spread is gluten free, vegan and has a relatively low GI content. Perfect at afternoon tea as a topping on toast or scones, and equally delicious added to porridge, ice cream, yoghurt, in baking or as a healthy frosting for sweet treats.

Coconut oil

I’m constantly chattering on to my friends and family about the amazing benefits of coconut oil. If you haven’t tried this stuff yet, not only is it fantastic for cooking with and creating raw desserts, it’s a brilliant skin moisturiser and leave-in conditioner. Coconut oil encourages the formation of healthy skin cells. I love slathering it on under my pjs and leaving it to soak in to my skin overnight. Alternatively rub it into your scalp and wrap a towel around your head to relieve dandruff and revive dull, tired hair. Simply leave in overnight and wash it out again the following morning.