Often thought of as a "superfood", coconut oil has many incredible properties. Coconut oil's combination of fats, bacteria killing qualities, and moisturizing abilities have been used by cultures all over the world to improve their health and overall quality of life. In addition to aiding in weight loss, coconut oil has been proven to increase brain function and accelerate the body's immune system. When compared to other oils and supplements, coconut oil is certainly in its own league. Read the following facts to learn more about the amazing benefits of coconut oil.
High in saturated fats, coconut oil is an essential source for healthy fatty acids. These fats are important for giving the brain and body a boost of quick energy. Additionally, their fat burning properties will work to maintain the body's good cholesterol levels, helping to reduce the risk of developing heart disease.
Coconut oil contains medium chain triglycerides or MCTs. These fatty acids are quite shorter than other fats. The MCT's in coconut oil are sent to the liver, where one's body can then access it and turn them into ketones to use as an energy source.
While coconut oil is often seen as exotic to most of the Western world, it has been a dietary staple in several other countries.
Many people from the South Pacific use coconut oil regularly. The Tokelauans are an example of a group of people that have truly benefited from the properties of coconuts and coconut oil. Over 60% of their caloric intake was derived from coconuts. As scientists studied their health, they found the Tokelauans to be incredibly healthy. With very few reported heart conditions, scientists found coconuts to play a huge role in the health of the Tokelauans.
Obesity is seen as one of the most significant health issues in the world. Many medical professionals believe that in order to regulate obesity and weight gain, one needs to monitor their calories, as well as the source of these calories.
When consuming coconut oil, the body's ability to to burn calories is increased. Coconut oil's MCT's allow the body to burn more calories, as opposed to the amount of calories the body can burn with longer chain fats.
Coconut oils fatty acids are made up of a 12-carbon lauric acid. Once the body digests lauric acid, it begins to form the substance monolaurin. Both monolaurin and lauric acid have the ability to eliminate microorganisms like fungi, viruses, and bacteria.
These substances in coconut oil have even been proven to remove bacteria like Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus, both dangerous pathogens that result in various infections. Thus, the more coconut oil one adds to their diet, the healthier they become.
In addition to being healthier for you, coconut oils fatty acids help to reduce the body's feelings of hunger. Many scientists believe that the ketones in coconut oil's fats are what help to reduce the appetite.
It is believed that a diet supplemented with coconut oil will lead to weight loss. Though this weight loss would occur after a period of a few years, the short term benefits of coconut oil are undeniable.
In addition to coconut oils dietary benefits, coconut oil can be used for cosmetic purposes as well. When used on the body, coconut oil has incredible moisturizing effects. Moreover, coconut oil can be used to reduce symptoms and the appearance of eczema.
When used on the hair, coconut oil is a powerful protective agent that helps to reduce the effects of UV rays. Additionally, many people use coconut oil to help with a dry or itchy scalp.
Coconut oil can also be used for dental care. When used as a mouthwash, coconut oil can help eliminate harmful bacteria. This will work to improve one's dental health, while also aiding in the elimination of bad breath.
