Is it harmful to the body to drink coconut milk regularly over a long period?
Oct 09, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, long-term consumption of coconut milk can be harmful to the body and may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, obesity, and elevated blood sugar levels.
Gastrointestinal discomfort: Excessive accumulation of protein in the body is difficult for the digestive system to break down and absorb, which may result in diarrhea and bloating.
Obesity: Coconut milk contains relatively high amounts of sugar; excessive calorie intake can lead to fat accumulation, increasing the risk of obesity.
Generally, long-term consumption of coconut milk may lead to various health issues such as gastrointestinal discomfort, obesity, heatiness, elevated blood sugar, and gout. Details are as follows:
1. Gastrointestinal discomfort
Coconut milk is rich in nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and trace elements, which can nourish yin, moisten the lungs, relieve summer heat, and quench thirst. However, it also contains relatively high levels of protein and sugar. While moderate consumption meets bodily needs, prolonged or excessive intake may cause excessive accumulation of protein in the body, which is difficult for the digestive system to break down and absorb, potentially leading to discomforts such as diarrhea and bloating.
2. Obesity
Coconut milk contains a high amount of sugar and thus provides considerable calories. Long-term consumption may result in calorie intake exceeding expenditure. The excess calories may be stored as fat, increasing the risk of obesity.
3. Heatiness (internal heat)
The abundant nutrients in coconut water may remain in the stomach undigested, potentially causing symptoms of "heatiness" such as mouth ulcers, cracked corners of the mouth, and sore throat.
4. Elevated blood sugar
Due to its high sugar content, long-term consumption of coconut milk may increase overall sugar levels in the body, placing extra burden on pancreatic function, disrupting normal sugar metabolism, and leading to increased blood glucose levels, which may even trigger diabetes.
5. Gout
Coconut milk contains relatively high levels of purines. Excessive intake may elevate uric acid levels and potentially induce gout.
In summary, if any discomfort occurs during consumption, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to prevent adverse outcomes.
