Coconut Flour For Weight Loss: Expert Lists It To Your Diet

Coconut flour is a nutritious option for weight loss in gluten-free or low-carb diets. Here are its benefits and how you can add it to your diet.

Coconut Flour For Weight Loss: Expert Lists The Benefits And How To Add It To Your Diet 1

We use different types of flour for cooking purposes, but did you know there’s flour that is not only healthy but can also help you lose weight? Coconut flour, derived from dried, ground coconut meat, is a gluten-free and grain-free flour that has a distinctive nutritional profile. Its unique flavour is a delightful addition to your meals and weight loss routine. We spoke to our expert, Dr Sanjay Singh, General Physician, Cygnus Laxmi Hospital, Varanasi, who listed the benefits of coconut flour and how it aids in weight management.

Benefits of Coconut Flour for Weight Loss

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High in Fibre

Coconut flour is high in fibre when compared to wheat flour. According to the Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), coconut flour has higher protein, fat, and fibre levels compared to refined wheat flour. “Due to this fibre content, it can help in promoting satiety, helping you feel full for longer periods. This can contribute to reduced overall calorie intake, aiding in weight management”, said Dr Singh.

Low in Carbohydrates

Coconut flour is notably low in carbohydrates compared to traditional flour. The lower carb content may be beneficial for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets, which are known for their effectiveness in weight loss.

Rich in Healthy Fats

Dr Singh added, “While coconut flour is low in unhealthy saturated fats, it contains a moderate amount of healthy fats. These fats can provide a sense of satisfaction, reducing the likelihood of overeating.”

Blood Sugar Regulation

The fibre content in coconut flour may contribute to better blood sugar control. By slowing down the absorption of sugar, it helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, which is essential for weight management.

How to Add Coconut Flour to Your Diet

Dr Singh listed the following ways to add coconut flour to your diet:

Baking and Cooking

You can replace a portion of traditional flour with coconut flour in your baking recipes. It’s essential to note that coconut flour absorbs more liquid than regular flour, so you may need to adjust the quantity of liquid ingredients accordingly.

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Smoothies and Shakes

You can even enhance the nutritional value of your smoothies by adding a tablespoon or two of coconut flour. This adds a subtle flavour and boosts the fibre content, promoting a feeling of fullness.

Coating for Proteins

Use coconut flour as a coating for proteins like chicken or fish before cooking. It adds a crispy texture and imparts a hint of coconut flavour to your dishes.

Thickening Agent

Coconut flour can be used as a natural thickening agent in soups, stews, and sauces. This not only adds thickness but also introduces the nutritional benefits of coconut flour to your savoury dishes.

Pancakes and Waffles

You can make delicious and fluffy pancakes or waffles by adding coconut flour to your batter. This provides a nutrient boost while offering a unique texture and flavour.

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Considerations and Tips

Dr Singh listed the following things to keep in mind:

Hydration is Key: Since coconut flour is high in fibre, it’s crucial to stay well-hydrated to aid digestion and prevent any potential discomfort.
Experiment with Ratios: When substituting coconut flour for traditional flour in recipes, start with smaller quantities and adjust ratios based on your taste preferences.
Combine with Other Flours: For certain recipes, you may find a combination of coconut flour and other flours works best. To achieve the desired texture and flavour, try experimenting with different ratios.
Homemade Energy Bars: Combine coconut flour with other wholesome ingredients to create homemade energy bars. These bars can serve as a satisfying and nutritious snack, supporting your weight loss journey.

NOTE – This article was originally published in onlymyhealth and can be viewed here

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Coconut Flour For Weight Loss: Expert Lists The Benefits And How To Add It To Your Diet