LifeStyle of Monday, 25 August 2025

Source: www.ghanaweb.com

Some health benefits of coconut toffee

Coconut toffee offers fibre, minerals and healthy fats Coconut toffee offers fibre, minerals and healthy fats

Coconut (Kube) toffee offers health benefits primarily from its coconut content, including healthy fats (MCTs) for energy and metabolism, dietary fibre for digestion, antioxidants for cellular health, and essential minerals like manganese and copper.

However, the benefits are counterbalanced by its high sugar and calorie content, which should be consumed in moderation.

Here are some potential health benefits

* Healthy Fats (MCTs):

Coconut is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a quick and easily digestible source of energy, supporting metabolism and brain function.

* Dietary Fibre

The fibre in coconut promotes healthy digestion and can contribute to feelings of fullness, which is helpful for weight management.

Health benefits of ‘puff-puff’

* Antioxidants:

Coconut contains antioxidants that help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, supporting overall cellular health.

* Essential Minerals:

Coconut is a source of minerals such as manganese, copper, and selenium, which are important for bone health, immune function, and antioxidant defence.

* Potential for Heart Health:

The healthy fats and minerals like potassium in coconut can contribute to regulating blood pressure and supporting overall heart health.

• Importance of lemon juice in coconut toffee:

Adding lemon juice to coconut toffee enhances its flavour and provides health benefits from the vitamin C in the lemon, which boosts the immune system and acts as an antioxidant.

The citric acid in lemon can also aid in digestion and help prevent kidney stones by making urine less acidic and inhibiting stone formation. Additionally, the combination can create a more balanced flavor profile, cutting through the richness of the toffee and promoting better nutrient absorption.

Important Considerations

* High Sugar and Fat Content:

Coconut toffee is a candy, so it is naturally high in sugar and calories. Excessive intake can counteract the potential health benefits and contribute to weight gain.

* Moderation is Key:

Enjoy coconut toffee in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid overconsumption of sugar and calories.

* Not a Primary Source of Nutrients:

While coconut toffee contains beneficial components, it should not be considered a primary source of these nutrients. Other foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains offer a broader and more significant range of vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients

1. Coconut

2. Sugar

3. Lemon juice

Instructions

1. Crack open the coconut and take out the fruit from the shell

2. Wash and gritte the coconut

3. With a clean cheesecloth, squeeze out the juice from the chaff

4. Melt the sugar on a low heat to get a fine caramel

5. Add the coconut juice and stir continuously

6. Keep stirring while it starts to thickens up to avoid burning

7. Add the lemon juice when it start turning a golden brown colour and keep stirring

8. On a clean and smooth surface, rob some oil or butter

9. Pour the toffee mixture on to the prepared surface

9. With a spatula keep turning so it doesn't harden

10. Stretch it out when it begins to cools

11. Roll it out and cut into desired shapes and sizes

Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s upcoming documentary titled, 'Sex for Fish' below:



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