by Amanda Krieger
Coconut oil does not only offer several health benefits, it’s also extremely versatile! It is a plant fat that is extracted directly from fresh coconut meat. It can be added to your daily smoothie, substituted as butter on your toast, or even used as a moisturizer for dry skin!
Health Benefits of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a saturated fat and because of this, it shouldn’t be used excessively in your day-to-day diet. Research does show benefits of its use although nothing is completely conclusive yet. Coconut oil does have its perks but make sure to use sparingly!
- Studies have shown that coconut oil has the ability to raise healthy cholesterol levels, while keeping unhealthy cholesterol levels down.1
- It has been shown to improve the metabolic health of patients with diabetes and lower their risk of heart disease.1
It provides the body with antioxidants, that work to keep your cells healthy.1- Adding it to meals can keep you feeling fuller for longer.2
- It has anti-inflammatory effects, which lower inflammation in the body.3
- When used on your skin, it can be a simple and natural way to keep moisturized.4
Uses of Coconut Oil
In the kitchen, coconut oil can be used:
- To sauté protein and vegetables
- As a topping to baked potatoes and toast
- To substitute butter when baking cupcakes or cookies
- As an addition to smoothies and shakes for added calories and nutrition
Other uses:
- To moisturize your body to treat and prevent dry skin
- To strengthen your hair and add shine
- To soothe dry and chapped lips
- To heal and moisturize painful cuticles
- To remove your eye makeup
References
- Cardoso DA, et al. A coconut extra virgin oil-rich diet increases HDL cholesterol and decreases waist circumference and body mass in coronary artery disease patients. Nutr Hosp 2015; 32(5): 2144-2151.
- Valente F, et al. Effects of coconut oil consumption on energy metabolism, cardiometabolic risk markers, and appetitive responses in women with excess body fat. European Journal of Nutrition 2018; 57(4): 1627-1637.
- Soomin K, et al. Enhanced barrier functions and anti-inflammatory effect of cultured coconut extract on human skin. Food and Chemical Toxicology 2017; 106: 367-375.
- Strunk T, et al. Topical Coconut Oil in Very Preterm Infants: An Open-Label Randomised Controlled Trial. Neonatology 2018; 113: 146-151.
