What Are The Benefits Of Coconut Macaroons?

Coconut macaroons are the most common macaroon variety in North America. Packaged coconut macaroons are moist and sweet and may even be coated in chocolate. Homemade macaroons are often less dense than the store-bought varieties and are usually simple to prepare.

Macaroons are a source of dietary fiber and have even been touted to offer relief to those with digestive disorders, such as Crohn's disease.

Treat for Those With Allergies

Macaroons traditionally have very few ingredients, with the primary constituents being egg whites, coconut and sweetener. For those who must avoid gluten, dairy, soy or other common allergen products, these little cookies can serve as an ideal treat. Those with coconut or egg allergies should not consume coconut macaroons, but every other allergy can be accommodated with the right recipe. Since most coconut macaroons are wheat-free, they are sometimes eaten at Passover, and they serve as a standby dessert for those with Celiac disease.

Always read package labels carefully before consuming store-bought macaroons, as ingredients vary from brand to brand. Some bakeries add nuts to coconut macaroons, often almond slivers, but if you have severe nut allergies, you should be especially diligent in checking the ingredient list.

Easy to Prepare

While coconut macaroon recipes vary, there are only three ingredients necessary. With all recipes, you will need to mix the egg whites until fluffy and fold in the sugar and coconut. They take less than 15 minutes to bake, and if you use parchment paper to line your baking sheet, you will only have a mixing bowl, beaters and a spatula to clean off. Some recipes call for the addition of a little salt or vanilla, flour or a chocolate coating after baking. These extra ingredients add very little extra effort and time, so experiment and enjoy.

Relief for Digestive Disorders

The coconut in macaroons is rich in coconut oil, which is a source of medium chain triglycerides, or MCTs. According to a 2003 study published in "European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology," nutrient absorption in the intestines is key in calming Crohn's disease symptoms. While more common long-chain fatty acids appear to hamper this absorption, lead researcher D.A. Gorard says, "No deleterious effects of additional medium-chain triglyceride have been identified."

Not only are MCTs more easily absorbed, but they also appear to have a role in the absorption of other nutrients. A 1998 Danish study compared absorption of fat in patients who had all or part of their colons removed. Patients on an MCT diet not only absorbed the MCTs better, but also absorbed the long-chain fatty acids, or LCTs, more efficiently.