Coconut oil seems to be gaining in popularity recently as it’s many uses and benefits of coconut oil are coming to light. From utilizing it as a moisturizer to polishing your wood furniture, this oil can be a lifesaver around the home. Not only that, recent studies have found that there are possible health benefits of coconut oil as well, making this superfood something to keep on your shopping list.
The Various Benefits of Coconut Oil
Get Rid of Plaque
A preliminary report was done on the effects that oil swishing or pulling has on the health of our mouth, and the results were very promising. While the study does acknowledge that more testing is essential to verifying coconut oil’s antimicrobial properties, the subjects that were tested showed a significant decrease in oral health issues as well as a reduce in plaque. Although this does not replace regular brushing, it is a safe and cost-effective way to keep your teeth and gums thriving.
Improve Good Cholesterol (Known As HDL)
Although Dr. Willet advises to limit use of coconut oil, he does verify that the proclaimed superfood has the ability to lower the body’s bad cholesterol and give a raise to the good HDL. He does warn that while the fats in coconut oil are great in that aspect, further research is needed to guarantee all of the claims. There is no certainty that the food has any abilities to help with heart disease, so until more information is gathered, do not bank on that just yet.
Get a Head Start on Weight Loss
Coconut oil is a preferred alternative to other cooking oils, and for good reason. It gives a quick boost of energy as it travels straight to the liver from out digestive tract.
In addition, coconut oil is a thermogenic increases your metabolism, increasing energy expenditure (calories burned) compared to eat calories from other foods.
Coconut oil is high in medium chain fatty acids. This is important because medium chain fatty acids increase the feeling of fullness. Studies show that those who are fed a diet high in medium chain fatty acids consume less calories overall.
So although coconut oil can help in giving an extra hand when it comes to weight loss, it is not a miracle weight loss product. You still need to eat a healthy diet and exercise.
Help Reduce the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
While this is not officially proven, coconut oil is said to play a role in keeping the brain functioning properly. Ketones from the oil may have the ability to aid in cognitive function. This could be temporary, however, so although a higher dose of ketones may be the trick today, tomorrow could be a difference story.
Prevent Osteoporosis
Consuming coconut oil regularly could be doing bone health a great service. Some studies suggest that bone volume is not only increased, but bone loss decreased from the addition of this food into the subject’s diets.
Fight Yeast Infections
Coconut oil contains many healthy fats, which are key to keeping a yeast infection at bay. Candida overproduction is remedied by the oil, which destroys the yeast, keeping infections at bay. Reducing consumption of processed sugars and refined grains is also important to remember when using this natural method.
Assist In Building Muscle
Some popular muscle building drinks list MCFAs as one of their main ingredients. These potent fatty acids are fantastic for bulking up, as well as leaning out. The MCFAs found in coconut oil are all natural as well, ensuring that they are the “real deal”.
Improve Overall Digestive Health
Between the reduction in bacteria and benefits to digestion, coconut oil could be a great way to improve stomach health. It aids the body in absorbing vitamins as well as calcium, and could have a part in reducing stomach acid as well.
Why Coconut Oil is Healthy
The cholesterol in coconut oil is under debate, but coconut oil does have health benefits. Improving digestion and brain function are a few of the helpful side-effects of this food that may just become a staple in everyone’s diet in the coming years.
How Often Should I Consume Coconut Oil?
There is a great debate about the amount of coconut oil one should take in. One tablespoon a day seems to be the consensus among health professionals, as any more is considered to be too high in fat. Coconut oil and coffee are a great start to your morning, and is a simple way to introduce the food into your diet.
How to Consume Coconut Oil
Sautéing your vegetables or even spreading it over toast are great ways to add coconut oil into your diet. It does not have a strong or abrasive flavor, so it can go into many dishes without compromising taste. The oil as a low melting point, making it easy to slather on almost anything, and dissolves into drink easily.
Difference Between Extra Virgin Coconut Oil and Regular Coconut Oil
There are different varieties of coconut oil, and they are not all created equally. Refined coconut oil is not exactly unhealthy, but does not have quite the same benefits that are found in extra virgin coconut oil. So how do the benefits of coconut oil differ?
Some of the nutrients are stripped away during the bleaching process, making extra virgin oil just a bit more beneficial to the body. Though the term bleaching sounds harmful, it is nothing that will negatively affect the body. Extra virgin coconut oil is also found to be higher in antioxidants. Though a matter of preference, if pressed, extra virgin coconut oil would be the best bet.
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Although this product may not be the end all be all to certain diseases or problems, coconut oil does have its’ advantages. In the coming years, research will tell if this is truly a superfood, or simply a great way to keep hair shiny and manageable. Until then, a tablespoon a day doesn’t hurt.
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