Coconut oil is extracted from the kernels of matured coconuts harvested from the coconut palm. Coconut oil has been the primary source of fatty acids for people of tropical climates for countless generations. About 92 percent of the fat content of coconut oil is saturated, with approximately half of it being lauric acid. Many governmental agencies and medical organizations recommend against consuming significant amounts of coconut oil due to its high saturated fat content, although some alternative health practitioners recommend it for a wide variety of health benefits.
Cardiovascular Health
The majority of the medical community believes that coconut oil is detrimental to the cardiovascular system because of high saturated fat content and the potential for atherosclerosis, or clogged arteries. However, lauric acid increases blood levels of HDL cholesterol, the good kind, not the harmful LDL type, as cited in "Biochemistry of Human Nutrition." In addition, early studies on the cardiovascular effects of coconut oil used partially hydrogenated varieties, which create harmful trans-fats in the bloodstream, and not virgin coconut oil, which has a much different profile. Further, virgin coconut oil is composed mainly of medium-chain triglycerides, which do not carry the same risks as other saturated fats, as cited in "Human Biochemistry and Disease." As such, coconut oil may not be nearly as harmful as other vegetable oils and may actually contribute to cardiovascular health.
Digestion
Coconut oil has natural laxative properties, which is why the most common negative symptom of its use is diarrhea. The saturated fatty acids in coconut oil have antimicrobial properties that can combat pathogenic bacteria, parasites and fungi that can lead to indigestion, bloating, stomach ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome, as cited in "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine." The fat content also aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, minerals and amino acids from the gastrointestinal tract. As a supplement, people often take 1 to 3 tablespoons daily.
Weight Loss
According to "Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism," coconut oil has been proven to stimulate metabolism, improve thyroid function and increase energy levels, which all contribute to burning fat and losing weight. The medium-chain fatty acids within coconut oil are readily used for energy metabolism instead of mostly being stored in the liver. The laxative effects can also promote weight loss by loosening stool and stimulating defecation.
Immunity
Coconut oil strengthens the immune system because it contains lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid, which all have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. Coconut oil is a popular natural remedy for candida yeast infections, urinary tract infections, warts, herpes, pimples and minor skin injuries or infections. It can be consumed internally or applied externally.
Skin and Hair Care
Coconut oil works well as a moisturizer for all skin types, especially dry and aging skin. The fats in the oil may reduce the appearance of wrinkles without skin irritation. The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil may help with skin problems such as psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema. Coconut oil is also commonly used as a hair conditioner and to reduce dandruff.
References
- "Nutritional Sciences"; Michelle McGuire; 2007
- "Biochemistry of Human Nutrition"; George Gropper; 2000
- "Human Biochemistry and Disease"; Gerald Litwack; 2008
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine"; A. Fauci et al.; 2008
- "Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism: 5th Edition"; Sareen S. Gropper and Jack L. Smith; 2009
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