One of the newest health trends is the use of virgin coconut oil as a weight loss aid. The foundation of this claim is based primarily on medium-chained fatty acids. These fatty acids are claimed to be easily digested and not stored in the body as fat. Compared with saturated fats, vegetable-based fat is also claimed far healthier than animal fat. As of 2010, medical research is minimal and evidence lacks to support these statements--either way. Consistent side effects are documented and important to note before considering the use of coconut oil.
Saturated Fat
Saturated fats are linked to heart disease because of their direct relationship to increasing bad cholesterol and decreasing good cholesterol. These fats primarily come from animals except in the case of coconut, palm and palm kernel oil. Supporters of coconut oil disparage the lumping of all saturated fats and contend vegetable based, saturated fat to be healthier.
According to acclaimed author and physician Dr. Andrew Weil, there is no substantiating research that confirms coconut oil is better for people than any other saturated fat.
Cardiovascular Risks
Although coconut oil doesn't come from animals it is still a saturated fat, can raise cholesterol levels and is considered heart-damaging. Saturated fats are commonly linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The New York Times personal health journalist Jane Brody wrote that "To protect heart health, you would be wise, as well, to avoid foods made with tropical oils--palm, palm kernel and coconut--which contain saturated fatty acids."
According to the Mayo Clinic, U.S. Department of Agriculture standards recommend on the high end 10 percent of total daily caloric intake should be from saturated fats.
Die-Off Effects
Lauric acid and caprylic acid are found in coconut oil and "appear to have antiviral and antifungal properties," Weil says. These acids often cause a die-off effect purging the body of a variety of organisms and toxins. The die-off effect can be intense or minor depending on the individual. Flu-like symptoms and diarrhea have been reported.
Allergic Reactions
It is a common misnomer to label the coconut as a fruit. The meat of a coconut is a fruit, the shell is a tree nut and coconut oil is labeled as vegetable oil. Given the complexity of a coconut, reactions can stem from a variety of factors. Allergic reactions to the tree nut are the most common and severe. Reactions are rare, but taken very seriously due to the severity of documented cases.
References
- Dr. Weil: Is Coconut Oil Good For You?
- MayoClinic: Dietary Fats: Know Which Types to Choose
- The New York Times: Butter or Margarine? First, Study the Label; Jane E. Brody; September 2006
- Coconut-Connections: FAQs: Could there be side effects when taking virgin coconut oil?
- Food Allergy: Tree Nut Allergy
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