Coconut oil has many applications, and there is anecdotal and scientific evidence that coconut oil can provide a variety of health benefits.  For instance, it is suggested that coconut oil increases energy, aids in weight loss, provides natural antibiotic activity, reduces cholesterol, and stabilizes insulin.  If you spend any time on the internet researching coconut oil, you’re bound to stumble on anecdotal evidence like this: Pig farmers tried to fatten their pigs using coconut oil, only to find that their pigs remained lean and highly active.  The opposite was true when the pigs were fed unsaturated fats, including trans fat.

Coconut oil converts to heat energy rapidly—it can be substituted for sugars as a ready source of energy without stimulating the release of insulin.  There is quite a bit of anecdotal evidence, as well, with regard to coconut oil being used for hypothyroidism… Coconut oil is also used as a beauty aid—as a skin moisturizer and hair conditioner. I happen to use a coconut lotion, as I am trying to use more natural and organic personal care products, and I love it. 

Look for virgin coconut oil that has not been refined.  You can use it to cook with safely—up to 360 degrees.

 


Comments

Lainie Petersen

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 10:03:38

I've been using coconut oil for awhile now...great for cooking, and, as you say, as a moisturizer as well. I try and get about three tablespoons in my diet each day and I have noticed a real improvement in how I feel.

Thanks!

 

Cynthia

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 14:43:38

I need to get some more coconut oil at the store... many people in the dog world give it to their dogs too, for health. :)

 

Nicole

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:46:48

What kind of coconut oil do you suggest? Is there a brand that seems to be particularly good? Do you buy it at the market or health food store?

 

Lainie Petersen

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 19:10:51

Cynthia: I had no idea that dogs take coconut oil. That is great!

Nicole: The coconut oil that is recommended is virgin coconut oil. It should smell of coconuts and it should NOT be extracted with solvents. I get mine at Whole Foods, though Amazon.com has some good brands as well.

 

Nicole

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 22:21:19

Thanks Lainie! I have some refined coconut oil that I cook with every once in awhile--but I'm headed to the Whole Foods store tomorrow for the virgin oil.

And I want to start incorporating coconut oil into my diet, too. Do you use it in recipes, or as a spread, or do you just dish up a spoon of it here or there? I love coconut in general, but haven't had much experience using the oil in my diet. Pointers would be appreciated :)

 

Lainie Petersen

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:52:24

Nicole,

You are in luck! I wrote an article on "Getting Your Daily Coconut Oil" which you can find here: http://tinyurl.com/5oed2j

Basically, though, I like to add it to hot tea (be careful, it gets really hot and you can burn your lips), spread it on a bagel, add it to brown rice, or add it to curries/stews/oatmeal. It is great!

 

Nicole

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 10:02:47

Thanks Lainie--I'm on it!

 



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