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Coconut oil is a highly functional food. It has long been used as an ingredient in traditional cuisines around the world; however, has had a resurgence as of late in biohacker and functional medicine groups. It has many health benefits and uses, including energy and potentially fat loss. Is coconut oil worth the hype? Read on to find out!
First Of All, What is Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is a natural fat. It is extracted from the meat of mature coconuts harvested from the coconut palm tree (Cocos nucifera). It is comprised of 65% medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are good for the liver and brain. MCTs are saturated fatty acids of 6 to 12 carbon atoms. They are a type of fat that your body can use immediately for energy. MCTs don’t require bile acids to be digested and absorbed, so they don’t need to go through the digestive tract as other fats do. Because MCTs don’t require bile salts for digestion, they go directly from the intestine into circulation where they are transported directly to liver cells for energy production. Much in the same way that carbohydrates, the body’s preferred source of energy, are used.
Coconut oil also contains lauric acid. Lauric acid has antiviral properties which increase immunity when consumed regularly with meals throughout the day.
Why Your Body Needs Fat
You may have heard about the benefits of coconut oil and its ingredients and that it can help you lose weight or boost your immune system. But why does the body actually need fat?
Fats are an essential part of your diet because they provide energy, help maintain body temperature, and contribute to growth and development. They also make up the cell membranes that hold cells together and hormones produced by your body. In addition, fats are an important source of essential fatty acids (EFAs), which you cannot produce yourself but must consume in order to maintain healthy skin and hair.
Health Benefits of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil benefits may help protect your liver from damage caused by alcohol or other toxins. Your liver is your body’s largest organ and is responsible for many vital functions. It produces bile to aid digestion, helps process certain medications and toxins in your body, regulates blood clotting, and supports the immune system. If you consume too much alcohol or are exposed to other toxins, your liver can become damaged or inflamed. Coconut oil may help protect your liver from these harmful effects by improving its ability to metabolize fat and protein efficiently. (please note, it won’t protect your liver from substance abuse).
In one animal study, coconut oil was shown to prevent against liver toxicity. In another animal study, the researchers concluded that coconut oil could safely treat and potentially reverse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Additionally, coconut oil may help prevent gallstones, which are small, hard deposits made of cholesterol that form inside the gallbladder. Gallstones are common in people who have type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome (a condition associated with obesity and insulin resistance).
A Note On Saturated Fat
Coconut oil is made up of about 90% saturated fat, so it’s important to use it in moderation to avoid consuming too much saturated fat. However, many health organizations are recognizing the benefits of coconut oil despite its high saturated fat content because of its other properties, such as antimicrobial and antiviral properties that can fight off harmful bacteria and viruses that cause infections like colds and flu.
How to Use Coconut Oil
There are a few different ways to use coconut oil. Some people reap its benefits for energy production and fasting.
• Cooking: Because coconut oil’s high smoke point, it is a good fat to cook with, especially over higher heat.
• Bulletproof Coffee: Some people like to blend one teaspoon to one tablespoon of coconut oil into their hot coffee to make what is known as “bulletproof” coffee. Drinking coffee this way provides energy from both the caffeine found in the coffee and the rich source of MCTs from coconut oil.
• Smoothie: This is an especially good option if you’re mixing up protein shakes or meal replacement shakes. It’s also useful for athletes who want more energy throughout the day but aren’t ready for a full meal.
If you’re looking to incorporate more coconut oil into your diet, the best way is to start slowly. As with most things in life, moderation is key.
Which Coconut Oil Is Best?
When shopping for coconut oil, quality is key. Nutiva Coconut Oil (organic, virgin) is a great option because it’s a virgin and organic coconut oil. It offers a light taste, pleasant aroma. It’s also available in a buttery flavour that you can drizzle on anything from popcorn to potatoes.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your practitioner prior to taking herbs or nutritional supplements.
