Coconut Milk: Use, Nutrition, and Health Considerations

Coconut milk is a creamy, plant-based, and naturally lactose-free liquid extracted from the grated pulp of mature coconuts. Botanically, the coconut is a drupe (a fruit with a single seed), not a true nut. It belongs to the palm family (Arecaceae) and is a staple food across tropical regions, including India, where its tree is revered in Sanskrit as “Kalpa Vriksha”, meaning “the tree that provides all life essentials.”

Coconut milk is naturally dairy-free and popular among vegans and those with lactose intolerance. Its thick, creamy, and opaque texture is due to its high saturated fat content, primarily composed of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).

Coconut milk is categorised commercially based on its fat content:

• Coconut Cream (Thick Milk): Has the highest fat content (often >20%).
• Regular Coconut Milk (Thin Milk): Typically contains up to 20% fat.
• Coconut Skim Milk: Contains the lowest fat content.

How is Coconut Milk Made?

The traditional process of making coconut milk is straightforward:

1. The white flesh of a mature coconut is grated.
2. The grated coconut is soaked in hot water.
3. The mixture is squeezed and strained. The initial thick, fatty liquid that separates is often referred to as coconut cream.
4. The remaining liquid is often filtered through a cheesecloth, producing thinner coconut milk. Repeating the water and straining process yields thinner milk suitable for light soups or curries.

Coconut Milk Nutrition: Facts and Figures

Coconut milk is a source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin E, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron, selenium, calcium, and magnesium.

Nutritional Profile for 100 mL of Canned, Unsweetened Coconut Milk (Approximate) [1]

Note on Sweetened Coconut Drinks: Plant-based beverages marketed as “coconut drinks” or “coconut milk beverage” are often significantly diluted and may have added sugars, resulting in a much lower fat and calorie count (e.g., ~45 kcal per 100 mL) but often with added calcium for fortification [2]. Always check the label for fat and added sugar content.

Health Considerations and Potential Benefits

While coconut milk is a nutritious food, its potential health effects are often tied to its medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) and lauric acid content. It’s important to remember that these benefits are often studied with coconut oil or concentrated lauric acid, and results may not translate directly to moderate consumption of coconut milk.

1. May Support Energy and Weight Management

Coconut milk is a high-calorie food, but its fat composition is unique. It is rich in MCTs, which are metabolised differently from long-chain fats:

• MCTs are quickly absorbed and transported directly to the liver, where they are often used for immediate energy or converted into ketones [3].
• Some research suggests MCT consumption may promote a slight increase in thermogenesis (heat production) and enhance satiety (a feeling of fullness), which theoretically could support energy balance and weight control [3]. However, more human clinical trials are needed to confirm significant long-term effects on weight loss from regular coconut milk consumption.

2. Impact on Cardiovascular Health: A Balanced View

Coconut milk is high in saturated fat, which has historically been a concern for heart health. However, recent scientific findings present a more nuanced picture [4]:

• The saturated fat in coconut milk is mostly lauric acid, which appears to be less harmful than some other saturated fats. Lauric acid has been shown to significantly raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol [4].
• While it may also raise total and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, it primarily raises the levels of large, buoyant LDL particles, which are generally considered less atherogenic (less likely to cause plaque buildup) than the small, dense particles [4].
• Conclusion for Balance: Due to its energy density and high saturated fat, individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions must consume coconut milk in moderation and as part of an overall heart-healthy diet recommended by a cardiologist or dietitian.

3. May Support Immune Function

Lauric acid, which makes up about half of the fat content in coconut milk, is known for its antimicrobial properties [5].

• In the body, lauric acid is converted into monolaurin, a monoglyceride that has been shown in laboratory and in vitro studies to inhibit the growth of various pathogens, including certain bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) and fungi [5].
• This suggests a potential role in supporting the body’s natural defences, though consuming coconut milk is not a replacement for medical treatment of infections.

Culinary and Cosmetic Uses of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is an incredibly versatile ingredient, functioning as an excellent dairy substitute in many recipes.

1. Cooking and Baking

• Dairy Replacement: Coconut milk, particularly the 6% fat variety, can substitute for full-fat dairy milk in many recipes, from curries and soups to baked goods.
• Soups and Sauces: Using coconut cream or milk toward the end of cooking adds body, creaminess, and a subtle sweetness to dishes like butternut squash, lentil, or Thai green curry soup.
• Desserts: It is a core ingredient for dairy-free ice cream, puddings, and various traditional Indian and Southeast Asian sweets.

2. Beauty and Hair Care

Due to its high fat content, coconut milk is often used in natural beauty preparations:

• Hair Mask: A simple mask combining coconut milk and honey can be applied to dry, unwashed hair to provide deep conditioning and potentially stimulate moisture retention.
• Skin Moisturiser: Its fats can help to nourish and soothe dry skin when used in homemade body lotions or baths.

Conclusion

Coconut milk is a nutrient-dense and functional food that serves as an excellent, naturally dairy-free alternative to cow’s milk. Its unique composition, rich in MCTs and lauric acid, offers potential benefits for energy, immunity, and heart health.

However, moderation is essential due to its high calorie and saturated fat content. When selecting a product, always choose unsweetened varieties and consider your overall dietary needs. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalised advice on incorporating high-fat foods into your diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

References

[1] U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2023). FoodData Central: Coconut Milk, Canned, Unsweetened. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/2345091/nutrients

[2] Drewnowski, A., Henry, C. J., & Dwyer, J. T. (2021). Proposed Nutrient Standards for Plant-Based Beverages Intended as Milk Alternatives. Frontiers in Nutrition, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2021.761442

[3] Gengan, G., Mohd, S., Saari, N., Anis, A. H. J., Hasan, H., Lim, E. J., Abd, W., & Muhamad, S. (2024). Nutritional and therapeutic benefits of coconut milk and its potential as a plant-based functional yogurt alternative: A review. Food Science & Human Wellness, 13(2), 659–674. https://doi.org/10.26599/FSHW.2024.9250004

[4] Tulashie, S. K., Amenakpor, J., Atisey, S., Odai, R., & Akpari, E. E. A. (2022). Production of coconut milk: A sustainable alternative to plant-based milk. Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering, 6(100206). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cscee.2022.100206

[5] Ameena, M., Meignana Arumugham, I., Ramalingam, K., & Shanmugam, R. (2024). Biomedical Applications of Lauric Acid: A Narrative Review. Cureus, 16(5). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.62770