Thursday, July 16, 2009

The Benefits of Coconut Oil

Coconuts are a way of life for millions of people around the world today in tropical climates. Known as the "tree of life," the wonderful fruit of the coconut palm is rich in specific fats that have incredible health benefits. Traditional tropical populations that consume a lot of coconut oil are seldom overweight, and traditionally have been free from the modern diseases that afflict most western cultures.

Isn’t coconut oil a saturated fat? Absolutely. However, there are some saturated fats that aren’t bad for you as you may think. One being coconut oil as well as Palm oil & really good butters. About 92% of coconut oil is considered saturated fat. Of that 92%, most of that is what is called Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) or Medium Chain Fatty Acids. Three quarters of the makeup of MCT’s is lauric acid which can also be found in breast milk. Here are some of the benefits of this powerful fatty acid:

  • Antifungal – fights funguses like yeast

  • Antibacterial – fights harmful pathogens and free radicals

  • Antiviral – fights viruses like the common cold, flu, etc.

  • Contains zero (0) trans fat

  • Skin care - can be used as a skin moisturizer or massage lotion

  • Premature aging - helps decrease wrinkles

  • Immunity - Boosts your immune system

  • Weight loss - keeps you lean by increasing your metabolic rate

  • Increases your body temperature – thermogenic effect which helps burn fat
For more information on the uses and benefits of coconut oil, please consult with your registered dietician or nutritionist. Also click on this link here.
-AR

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