Nuts, coconut meat, flaked, packaged
Category: Nut & Seed Products State: Dried (Desiccated) Characteristics: Sweetened
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
388
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
---|---|
Fat | 214 (55.3%) |
Carbohydrate | 176 (45.4%) |
Protein | 11 (2.7%) |
Total | 388 (100%) |
Serving: 1 cup [85g]
Composition
Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
---|---|
Carbohydrate | 44 (51.8%) |
Fat | 24 (28.0%) |
Water | 13 (15.5%) |
Protein | 2.7 (3.1%) |
Ash | 1.3 (1.6%) |
Total | 85 (100%) |
Serving: 1 cup [85g]
Benefits
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High in fiber and fat which helps promote feelings of fullness and may aid weight management when consumed in moderation
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Contains healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats which can help lower LDL cholesterol and reduce risk of heart disease
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Rich source of vitamin E which acts as an antioxidant and protects cells from damage
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Provides manganese which is important for bone health, metabolism and antioxidant protection
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Sweetened with sugar which can be an easy source of quick energy when consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet
Risks
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High in calories and fat. Eating large amounts can contribute to weight gain
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Added sugars increase calorie content and provide empty calories. Excess sugar intake is linked to increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease
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Flaked texture and sweetened coating may promote overeating and lack of portion control
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Packaged in individual servings, it may be easy to mindlessly overconsume without realizing. Portion control is important
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For those with nut or coconut allergies, this product could cause an allergic reaction
Additional Information
Nuts, coconut meat, dried (desiccated), sweetened, flaked, packaged, offer a unique combination of nutritional benefits and risks. Let's delve into the primary attributes and secondary attributes to understand them better.
Primary Attribute: Nuts
Nuts, including coconut meat, are nutrient-dense foods known for their high content of healthy fats, fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly rich in monounsaturated fats, which have been associated with heart health and reduced risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, nuts provide essential nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese, which play vital roles in various bodily functions.
Secondary Attributes:
1. Dried (Desiccated): The drying process removes the water content from coconut meat, concentrating its nutrients and intensifying its flavor. This makes it a convenient and long-lasting option for consumption.
2. Sweetened: The addition of sweeteners to dried coconut flakes enhances their taste and makes them more appealing to many individuals. However, it's important to note that sweetened coconut flakes typically contain added sugars, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health risks if consumed in large quantities.
3. Flaked: Coconut flakes refer to thin, small pieces of dried coconut meat. Their flaky texture and mild sweetness make them a popular ingredient in various culinary preparations, including baked goods, desserts, and savory dishes.
4. Packaged: The packaged form of dried coconut flakes ensures convenience, longer shelf life, and protection against moisture and contaminants. However, it's crucial to check the packaging for any added preservatives, artificial flavors, or excessive sodium content, as these can potentially diminish the overall nutritional quality of the product.
Nutritional Benefits:
Nuts, coconut meat, dried, sweetened, flaked, packaged, offer several nutritional benefits:
1. Healthy Fats: The primary attribute of nuts provides a rich source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which can help improve heart health and lower bad cholesterol levels.
2. Fiber: Coconut flakes are a good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health, aiding in weight management, and contributing to a feeling of fullness.
3. Micronutrients: Dried coconut flakes contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant, and minerals like magnesium and manganese, which are involved in various enzymatic reactions and bone health.
Risks:
While nuts, coconut meat, dried, sweetened, flaked, packaged, offer numerous nutritional benefits, there are a few potential risks to consider:
1. Added Sugars: Sweetened coconut flakes often contain added sugars, which can contribute to excessive calorie consumption and may increase the risk of weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and other health issues if consumed in excess.
2. Calorie Density: Coconut flakes are energy-dense due to their high-fat content. While healthy fats are beneficial, it's important to consume them in moderation, as excessive calorie intake can lead to weight gain.
3. Sodium Content: Some packaged coconut flakes may contain added sodium, which can be problematic for individuals with high blood pressure or those who need to limit their sodium intake.
In conclusion, nuts, coconut meat, dried, sweetened, flaked, packaged, offer a range of nutritional benefits, including healthy fats, fiber, and essential micronutrients. However, it's important to be mindful of the added sugars, calorie density, and sodium content associated with sweetened and packaged varieties. Moderation and reading labels are key to incorporating this food product into a balanced and healthy diet.