Crazy for Coconuts: 4 Things You Should Know about Coconut Oil

If you like piña colada like the song says then you’re a step ahead. You already like the flavor of coconut. It is delicious. You may have noticed that people seem to be going crazy for coconut these days! People are imbibing straight or putting it in smoothies and even their coffee. Aside from its sweet tropical taste, people are adding coconut oil into their diet because of its perceived health benefits. Coconut oil and other products are said to help with weight loss, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes etc. However, many of these claims have yet to be scientifically proven.

Here are 4 Things You Should Know about Coconut Oil:

1. Coconut Oil is Great for Your Skin
Coconut oil is an effective moisturizer. It helps improve dry skin and is safe to use. It is great as a massage oil as well. Due to its antioxidant properties, some studies also suggest that it helps prevent premature aging. Other skin conditions that are said to benefit from the use of coconut oil are psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema.

2. Coconut Oil is Great for Your Hair
You’ve probably seen many shampoos, conditioners and hair products with coconut oil. That’s because, not only does it add a tropical scent, it also helps in healthy hair growth and makes hair shiny.

3. Coconut Oil raises your good cholesterol but…
As far as heart health goes, coconut oil actually contains more saturated fat than olive oil. But fans of coconut oil say that the MCT-saturated fat in coconut boosts your HDL or good cholesterol. Truth is, it also raises your LDL or bad cholesterol. Bottom line, doctors suggest using coconut oil sparingly because there is not enough research about the long-term effects of coconut oil in connection with heart health.

4. Coconut Oil May Aid in Weight Loss
Studies suggest that coconut oil can help promote weight loss because virgin coconut oil contains about 60 to 63 percent medium-chain fatty acids/medium chain triglycerides (MCT) , which our bodies us as an efficient energy source. Basically, this means that one can burn extra calories due to the capric acid and other MCTs in coconut oil. Scientists, however, still need to do further research on this matter.

Disclaimer: All information provided on the blog is for informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be correct. AllStarHealth.com will not be held liable for any problems that may arise from the use of products sold on our website. Always consult your physician before trying any new products. Placing an order at AllStarHealth.com signifies that you have read and agree to all of the policies listed on our policy page. Any and all legal issues pertaining to this web site shall be dealt with in the jurisdiction that AllStarHealth.com corresponds to.

References:
Harvard Health Publications