Coconut oil is gaining popularity for its purported health benefits, despite its high saturated fat content. Its composition allows it to break down before it reaches the lower digestive tract, the problem area for many people who have inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Before using coconut oil, however, talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits.
Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease
Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are types of inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. Both conditions cause colon and small intestine disturbances, including tissue damage and tissue death. Ulcerative colitis tends to affect the superficial lining of this portion of the digestive tract, while Crohn’s disease tends to spread deeper within the tissues. Crohn’s disease may also affect the upper digestive tract, causing symptoms in both the stomach and the esophagus. Abdominal pain, frequent loose stools and bleeding are common signs of both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Further testing can determine which condition you have.
Diet and IBD
Some foods may increase IBD symptoms, and some may irritate the digestive tract even more once it becomes inflamed. MayoClinic.com reports that both dairy products and high-fiber foods may be problematic for those with different types of IBD. Everyone is different, however, and may have different food triggers. If you have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, your doctor may advise you to eat smaller, more frequent meals and increase your water intake. You can also keep a food diary to monitor how your meals affect your digestive symptoms, helping you pinpoint your own food triggers based on symptom trends.
Coconut Oil and Digestion
Coconut oil falls under the “fats” heading. While fats should only make up a small part of anyone’s diet, coconut oil may actually be more tolerable for people who have IBD than other types of oils. According to MayoClinic.com, those with Crohn’s disease may not absorb fats adequately once they reach the small intestine. This can lead to the frequent diarrhea associated with the disorder. Coconut oil is not absorbed in the same way as traditional cooking fats like butter or animal fats. According to the Foundation for Alternative and Integrative Medicine, coconut oil is broken down and absorbed before it reaches the intestines. Those with inflammatory bowel disorders should switch their cooking oil to coconut, which may improve digestive symptoms.
Coconut Oil Risks
Compared to other cooking oils, coconut oil has a particularly high concentration of saturated fats. THe Foundation for Alternative and Integrative Medicine reports it contains more than 91 percent saturated fats. This may pose other health risks, especially for those with high cholesterol, high triglycerides or other related heart conditions. Though coconut oil tends to increase your good cholesterol, or HDL, levels, it can still increase your overall cholesterol, including "bad" LDL. Before you switch to coconut oil, talk to your doctor about any potential health risks.
References
- Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America: Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: Diet and Nutrition
- Foundation for Alternative and Integrative Medicine; Health Properties of Coconut Oil; Bruce Fife, ND
- MayoClinic.com: Crohn’s Disease; August 2011
- National Digestive Disorders Information Clearinghouse: Ulcerative Colitis; February 2006
