Coconut Oil: New Super Food. Why Coconut Oil is Good for Your Health

Coconut Oil: New Super Food Overview

Nothing is indeed more debatable like discussions on nutrition. Among the many prominent health hacks in existence, perhaps the use of coconut oil has been controversial because it is saturated fat and the American Heart Association (AHA), which is funded by Big Pharma and producers of vegetable oils, came against it. The fear is that coconut oil will increase LDL (bad) cholesterol and decrease HDL (good) cholesterol, leading to heart disease. The truth of the matter is that coconut oil is healthy, primarily when the non-GMO, organic variety is used.

A 2009 study comparing different facts, specifically, coconut oil versus soybean oil in obese women revealed some exciting results. The group given the coconut oil group ended up having higher HDL (good) cholesterol levels with an improved ratio of LDL to HDL. Their total cholesterol of the soybean oil group increased. As a matter of fact, their LDL increase while their HDL levels decreased. As a result, their ratio of LDL to HDL of the study participants got worse! ¹

You see, the real cause of LDL increase and heart disease are (a limited list):

• The use of refined sugar (e.g., high fructose corn syrup, granulated sugar, sanding sugar, powdered sugar, etc.)
• Trans fats (hydrogenated oils) and unsaturated fats
• Refined and highly processed carbohydrates (packaged cereals, snacks, crackers, etc.)
• Inflammatory oils ( e.g., vegetable oils such as canola, soy, cottonseed, corn, or whatever inflammatory oil they come up with next)
• Lifestyle choices (lack of exercise, stress, alcohol, smoking, etc.)

The truth is, the oil isn’t just for replenishing your skin or moisturizing your hair. As one of the new superfoods, it’s now known to have dozens of uses in the kitchen, improving your mental and physical health – and the taste of every meal.

The Benefits of Coconut Oil

• Studies show that those people in tropical climates (who have the fruit readily available to them and live off of a diet consisting of coconut oil) have less heart disease, slimmer physiques, and a longer average life span
• It contains saturated fats, but a minimal amount that’s said to have health benefits
• It improves thyroid function, metabolism, and liver function
• Studies show that moderate or high amounts of this oil lower cholesterol
• A 1987 study concluded that coconut oil protected the body against cancer better than unsaturated fats
• It can improve digestion, water retention, and blood flow and decrease the risk of blood clots
• It also contains the beneficial Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) Oil which has been shown to help with weight loss and help with Alzheimer’s disease^2,3

It’s Good For Your Skin, Teeth, and Overall Hygiene!

• Coconut oil’s many uses include being antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antiviral
• It has a subtle coconut taste – anyone who likes coconuts or doesn’t can enjoy its many benefits!
• Use all over your body for an effective sunscreen, personal lubricant or toothpaste (mix with water and baking soda)
• Can be used for a lotion to deal with eczema and massage oil
• Apply before shaving and minimize cuts and scrapes
• Mix with arrowroot powder and baking soda for a natural deodorant! (I personally make my own Body Butter and Deodorant using coconut oil…it’s really easy)
• Lather on to relieve nipple pain from breastfeeding
• When outdoors and discomfort from bug bites, lather on some of this oil to feel the relief instantly

It Can Increase Wellness and Total Health

• Use coconut oil as aromatherapy. Massage the oil onto your temples, or the inner part of your wrist, and seek relief from its nutty, earthy scent
• Children that get frequent nosebleeds can find relief in coconut oil. Bleeding can arise when the inner nostrils get dry, cracked, and bleed. Apply the oil once or twice daily to prevent dryness
• To boost up bodybuilding or lean down, coconut oil when used to cook with can boost metabolism and help proteins support muscle mass
• Studies have shown that coconut oil helps relieve irritable bowel syndrome
• It has a satisfying flavor that helps to curb sugar cravings, and a small amount is filling enough to reduce appetite

It Will Make You Healthier!

• Coconut oil can be used instead of margarine or hydrogenated oils or vegetable oils when making omelets, stir fry, casseroles, or pastries. Or, spread a tablespoon on toast instead of margarine!
• In its natural form at room temperature, it is solid. Melt the oil in hot water or a saucepan, and add it to a protein shake or fruit smoothie (Do Not Use High Heat!)
• Improve your pet’s health – add a teaspoon to their water bowl to support their digestive systems and kidneys
• The perfect natural insect repellent when used together with peppermint oil
• Scar healing – Apply a teaspoon to the area to speed up the healing process.
• Use as a natural ointment for a painful back, neck, and joint discomfort/soreness when mixed with essential oils.
• Apply to blackheads on forehead, chest, chin, and cheeks to minimize acne.
• Apply the oil topically up to once a day for skin disorders, and it can altogether cure the annoying or painful symptoms.

Final Thoughts

This healthy oil isn’t just for getting shiny hair or applying to your sunburn. For increased health, wellness, and a preventive diet, use coconut oil in nearly every area of your life – including in the kitchen! It’s yet another superfood that you can enjoy daily. As Always, buy non-GMO and Organic. The less processed, the better. You and Your Health Deserve The Very Best!

We wrote an article about the dangerous chemicals in personal care products and provided a recipe for making your own Body Butter with Coconut Oil. Get the recipe!

To Your Health!

Reference

¹Lipids 2009 Jul; 44(7): 593-601

²Nutr Metab (Lond). August 2009; 10(6): 31

³Alzheimers Dement. 2015 Jan; 11(1): 99–103