Description
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is widely marketed as a superfood.
The unique combination of fatty acids in coconut oil may have
positive effects on your health, such as boosting fat loss, heart
health, and brain function.
Benefits
1. Contains healthy fatty acids
Coconut oil is high in MCTs, a type of fat that your body
metabolizes differently than most other fats. MCTs are responsible
for many of the health benefits of coconut oil.
2. May boost heart health
Several populations around the world have thrived for generations
eating a substantial amount of coconut, and studies show they have
good heart health.
3. May encourage fat burning
MCTs can increase the number of calories burned over *4 hours by as
much as 5%. However, coconut oil itself may not have the same
effect.
4. May have antimicrobial effects
Using coconut oil as a mouthwash may prevent mouth infections, but
more evidence is needed.
5. May reduce hunger
MCTs can significantly reduce appetite, which may lead to reduced
body weight over the long term.
6. May reduce seizures
The MCTs in coconut oil can increase blood concentration of ketone
bodies, which can help reduce seizures in children with
epilepsy.
7. May raise HDL (good) cholesterol
Coconut oil can raise blood levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, which
is linked to improved metabolic health and a lower risk of heart
disease.
8. May protect your skin, hair, and teeth
People can apply coconut oil to their skin, hair, and teeth.
Studies suggest it works as a skin moisturizer, protects against
skin damage, and improves oral health.
9. May boost brain function in Alzheimer's
disease
MCTs can increase blood levels of ketones, potentially relieving
Alzheimer's symptoms.
