People frequently get coconuts or pipas on the beach to drink the water but then throw the rest away. Unfortunately, they are missing some of the best parts of the coconut, the meat. Coconut meat is packed with a ton of nutrients and healthy fats.

This tropical delight is high in ascorbic acid, B vitamins, and proteins. In addition, it helps to restore oxidative tissue damage and is a source of healthy fats, proteins, and various vitamins and minerals. Coconut meat contains 17 amino acids out of the 20 amino acids needed for optimal protein formation–meaning it is great for building muscle mass. Do some research and soon you will see that the water is just the icing on the cake.

The easiest way to access the meat in the coconut is with a machete or large knife. A few solid whacks and you'll soon be looking into the white bliss of tasty nutrition. Use a spoon to easily separate the meat from the shell. Then you can easily use a knife to cut the coconut into bite-size pieces.

We generally eat coconut meat raw. We have tried toasting it and baking it too, but usually, we don't want to wait to cook it. It is great to eat it fresh right out of the shell.

Health benefits of Coconut Meat:
1. Medium Chain Fatty Acids - are broken down much faster than long chain fatty acids.
2. Does Not Contribute To High Cholesterol - unlike long chain fatty acids do.
3. Boosts the Immune System - through antioxidants and the trace mineral manganese.
4. Reduces Inflammation - due to antioxidants.
5. Healthy Digestion - due to high fiber content.
6. Supports the Nervous Systems - from high amounts of trace mineral manganese.
7. Promotes Heart and Cell Health - with minerals potassium and copper.