Coconut oil is a wise choice for good health and should be a part of our every day diets. Coconut oil is known to help prevent diseases and reduce risk of heart disease. But there is so much more it is known to do. Here are just a few things people are saying coconut oil is doing for them:
- Increased energy
- Fewer cravings for sweets and carbs
- Stimulate metabolism, increased metabolic rate
- Weight loss
- Clear up diaper rash, cradle cap and baby acne
- Fights Candida yeast infections
- Lowers cholesterol
- Improved thyroid levels
- Stabilize blood sugar levels
- Improved immune systems
- Improved digestion – great for those with Crohn’s, Irritable Bowel Syndorm or other digestive issues
- Improves joint pain
- Rejuvenate skin and prevents wrinkles
- Cleared complexion
There have been numerous studies on the effects of coconut oil and study after study shows positive results. Researchers have known for some time that the benefits associated with virgin coconut oil are mainly from what is called medium chain fatty acids. Also known as medium chain triglycerides, or MCT for short. These medium chain fatty acids are different from longer chain fatty acids found in other plant-based oils. Most unhealthy vegetable oils are composed of long chain fatty acids, or triglycerides. (LCTs). Once consumed, MCTs are broken down rapidly, absorbed into the intestinal tracts and then transported directly to the liver where it is burned up almost immediately converted into energy. MCTs promote what is called thermogenisis which increases the body’s metabolism and produces energy. LCTs are transported from the intestines as fat droplets (chylomicons) and dumped into the blood stream near the heart. These fat droplets go through the entire body before it reaches the liver. They are slow to metabolize and therefore are easier stored as fat. On the other hand, MCTs rapidly burn as energy and raise the body’s metabolism which can aid in weight loss. Energy and boosting the metabolism is desired for those trying to loosing weight. It’s why we should not fret the calories found in virgin coconut oil. Virgin coconut oil is nature’s richest source of MCT. The MCTs in coconut oil has been compared to the fatty acids naturally produced in a human mother’s breast milk. Outside of breast milk, coconut oil is nature’s most abundant source of lauric acid as well as medium chain fatty acids.
There are many ways to incorporate coconut oil into one’s diet. We suggest you replace our unhealthy cooking oils with virgin coconut oil. Coconut oil is usually solid with the melting point being at 76 degrees. It can be stored in liquid or solid form. It can also be stored in the refrigerator and used in place of butter for vegetables, toast, cooked oats, etc. It can be mixed with protein powder drinks, coffee or smoothies. And probably the most popular is used in chocolate recipes. Freezing coconut oil makes it harder and gives it a creamy chocolate flavor when mixed with carob or cocoa powder. It can also be massaged into the skin as it is absorbed very nicely and helps dry, chapped skin. It is recommended that you consume 3-4 tablespoons of coconut oil per day. It is best if you have it throughout the day and best with food high in fiber and protein.
We recognize that coconut oil has had a bad reputation in the past. We’ve been told for years that we should be avoiding fat. Now we are learning the dangers of low-fat diets and Americans are slowly bringing in more good healthy fats into their daily diet. Fats are good for us, we need them to survive! One of the best ways to bring in a good healthy fat is through virgin coconut oil.
Virgin coconut oil comes from fresh coconut meat. Neither chemicals or high heat are used when producing virgin coconut oil. Don’t be fooled by the cheaper brands known as RBD Coconut oil – Refined, Bleached & Deodorized Coconut Oil. Refined coconut oil goes through harmful processing including high heat. Most commercial grade coconut oil is made from standard copra. The oil that is expelled directly from copra may contain dust particles, insect remains, spawns, microbes, fungal spores and many other such substances which may be harmful for health. The manufactures then put in through the process and is left with next to zero benefits. Many are drawn to this for another reason other than the price. Those who do not care for a coconut flavor enjoy a refined brand because during the process, most coconut flavor is lost. Most refined brands also do not use fresh coconut meat, but virgin coconut oil start with fresh coconut which not need further refining as their natural antioxidant properties make them a very stable oil. The refined oils that many Americans use are very unstable and turn rancid (oxidize) quickly. Oxidized oils are very toxic and can cause free-radical damage to our bodies.
Watch our Take 1 – One minute for your health video.
Coconut Oil is the healthiest oil we can consume. It is best to use an (organic) virgin brand to make sure you are getting the best possible oil. Coconut oil comes directly from the plant source, not an animal source. There is no official classification or difference between “virgin” and “extra virgin” like you see in the olive oil.
Suggested use: 3-4 tablespoons per day to improve your metabolism and lose weight. Best if spread throughout the day. If you have never used virgin coconut oil before, begin with 1 tablespoon and work up from there as some do experience “detox” symptoms when beginning the oil daily.
