Even though coconut oil has been criticized for its generous saturated fat, it has been given a second chance as a healthy fat. While it’s not a great idea to drink it with the tablespoon, you should definitely think about adding his oil to your diet.
Coconut oil has almost 90% of saturated fat, however, not all saturated fats are equal. Coconut oil’s saturated fat is mostly lauric acid. It is a medium-chain saturated fatty acid which seems to have a more neutral effect on your heart health than longer-chain saturated fats which are found in dairy products and meats.
Medium-chain fats are more easily metabolized into energy in the liver, which means that they may be less likely to be stored on your thighs if you watch for your calories intake. Depending on your calorie needs, one or two tablespoons of coconut oil a day can be a tasty and healthy addition to your diet when you want to replace other calories which are less-healthy. However, don’t believe the story that simply adding coconut oil to your diet can help you loose some weight.
1. Can help speed weight loss and metabolism
Coconut oil is an MCFA (medium-chain fatty acid) which is also known as MCT (medium chain triglyceride). The oil is healthy fat without any trans fats. The fatty acid particles increase your metabolism and energy by going straight to the liver. This yields weight loss. In order to get you body back in shape, start consuming several tablespoons a day.
2. It has a high heat point
Coconut oil can be used for frying, baking, and cooking at high temperatures. The oil doesn’t break down and oxidize until 252 degrees Celsius or 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Replace vegetable oils with coconut oil. The oil can also be used as a good substitute in all of your recipes.
3. Toothpaste
You can brush your teeth with coconut oil or easily mix it with baking soda, thanks to the anti-fungal and antibacterial properties of coconut oil. Coconut oil turns to a liquid if its exposed above 23 degrees Celsius and 74 degrees Fahrenheit, so keep it stored in a container in a cool place.
4. Moisturizer
Coconut oil can also be used on your face and over your body. It is natural moisturizer which won’t cause your skin to be oily. It will keep wrinkles at bay, and boost collagen production in your cells.
5. Increases breast milk
In case you’re a breastfeeding mother, you probably know that your milk supply is key to your baby’s development. Since healthy fats play a key role to hormone production, consumption of coconut oil will increase your milk supply.
6. Hair conditioner
Since, you can consume and use coconut oil as a body moisturizer, it can also help your hair. You can put it on your hair overnight to get shiny, healthy hair, thanks to its moisturizing effects. After using coconut oil, you can normally shampoo, rinse and style your hair.
7. Consume in your coffee
Replace the cream in your coffee with coconut oil. it will add a nutty taste which is rich and smooth. This is called bulletproof coffee. Since essential healthy fats are a necessity, consumption of coconut oil will increase the uptake of nutrients and vitamins in your body.
8. Speed healing of sunburns and cuts
Since coconut oil is a natural moisturizer, in combination with several drops of lavender oil, it can heal your burns so that the skin doesn’t peel. Coconut oil repairs the skin cells and promotes collagen production.
9. Natural deodorant
The lauric acid found in coconut oil can kill odor-causing bacteria, and by applying coconut oil to your skin you can eliminate odors.