Home HEALTH My tip of the week… Coconut Oil

My tip of the week… Coconut Oil

January 17, 2012

There’s been a lot of controversy around coconut oil. Is it good, or is it bad for your health?

Because of it’s high levels of fat, many health organizations were recommending limited use. We were always taught that fat is bad for us. More fat means higher cholesterol and excess weight, therefore bad health, right?

Many professionals now disagree and believe some fats are an important part of our diet, and I agree, think strawberries and avocados!

Extra Virgin ‘Organic’ Coconut Oil is rich in medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) an immediate source of energy, therefore not stored as fat. MCTs don’t need carrier proteins to get to the liver, so are immediately converted into usable energy, contrary to long chain triglycerides (LCTs).

Coconut oil has actually been shown to lower cholesterol, due to its ability to stimulate the thyroid function. Other benefits include antibacterial and antiviral functions, it can balance the hormones, it reduces stress on the pancreas and liver, therefore increasing metabolism. Yes, you’re hearing right! Some ‘fat’ can actually help you loose ‘fat’! Isn’t that awesome? I wish cocoa oil was this healthy, I would live in a chocolate house.

The best way to see the benefits of coconut oil is simply to try it. Here are my experiences:

 

AS BODY LOTION

I ‘ve been applying coconut oil for a while now and my skin feels like a babys’. I also noticed that it heals scares very well, which I’ve been trying to do for years. It’s very oily, so you don’t wanna apply it in the morning and go to work looking like a shiny body builder, best is to apply it in the evening.

Mmm…the smell, invigorating! You immediately feel like you’re on a tropical vacation! The smell is a nerve calmer, another great benefit.

 

AS COOKING OIL

Nutritionists recommend coconut oil for healthy cooking, as it has a higher cooking temperature than other oils, it’s less susceptible to heat damage, therefore you’ll take in all the nutritional content. Cooking with coconut oil has made me feel healthier, less bloated and again increased my energy levels (I talk a lot about energy levels, I may well find myself flying soon!) I have to say the taste takes a little getting used to, so I suggest starting with Thai dishes which are often designed to include coconut. Then simply build from there…

 

AS A SUPPLEMENT

A tablespoon or two a day is great. A top tip…. It makes for a nice lip balm as well.

 

So many functions in one product, it makes for a great travel essential. As you know I love practical things like this.

My opinion is obvious, need I say more? I’m officially nuts for coconut oil!

I AM COCO-NUTS!

Have a great night!

 

Adela x

 

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