Coconut oil is shooting up the super foods list right now, with alleged health benefits that have seen top models and a host of A-list celebs ditching their oils, lotions and potions in favour of a simple jar of coconut oil. Miranda Kerr is said to consume at least a tablespoonful a day which she has attributed to her wonderfully glossy hair and blemish free skin. Apparently it can help people lose weight, ease digestive problems, promote healthy cholesterol levels, make your hair shine, your skin glow and even improve your immune system. So what’s the story?
Firstly, good fats do not make you fat!
Unfortunately people have become afraid of fats as all fats have been deemed unhealthy. Yes, coconut oil is an oil, but it’s almost 90% “good” saturated fat, not nasty transfats (the bad fats which you can find in processed foods and vegetable oils). New research indicates that, contrary to what the experts thought for decades, naturally occurring saturated fats appear to be harmless – unlike the man-made hydrogenated fats; they don’t clog your arteries. Multiple studies on Pacific Island populations, who get 30-60% of their total calorific intake from fully saturated coconut oil, have all shown nearly non-existent rates of cardiovascular disease.
It is also a great oil to cook with, as unlike many other oils including olive oil, it has a high smoke point, this means it doesn’t get damaged by heat and retains its health benefits. So try baking, roasting or stir frying with it. It can also be used as a great alternative to butter.
Proven benefits of coconut oil:
Coconut oil contains a lot of medium chain triglycerides, which have many fantastic properties that can help you shed the pounds. These fatty acids absorb easily into the body so there is less stress on your digestive system and get converted straight into energy rather than fat. They also help to stimulate your metabolism, so when coupled with regular exercise and a balanced diet it can help in maintaining a healthy weight.
Around half of the fatty acid in coconut oil is Lauric Acid, which can kill harmful pathogens and help prevent infections. It is also thought to help lower cholesterol, for a healthy heart.
The fatty acids in coconut oil help reduce sugar cravings, as they are converted into energy in a similar way to carbs or sugar. However, coconut oil doesn’t spike your insulin levels so you are less likely to crash in the afternoon and want something sweet.
One 2009 weight loss study also found a link between women’s consumption of coconut oil and a reduction in abdominal obesity (fat stored around the waist and stomach area).It is thought this weight loss is partly due to the easing of digestion, as well as Coconut Oil’s ability to optimise the body’s energy levels.
It’s a fab natural beauty product too!
Coconut oil can double as both a fantastic moisturiser and hair masque. It is incredibly hydrating reducing the appearance of fine lines and dry patches and is delicate enough to be used as make up remover. It has antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which fight against bacteria to even out blemishes and sooth problematic skin conditions. It is quickly absorbed into the skin leaving it feeling soft, supple and glowing. You can also apply it to you hair as a wonderfully nourishing masque for super shiny hair.
Where you can buy Coconut oil?
You can buy coconut oil from your local health food shop or many of the supermarkets now stock it. Make sure to buy extra virgin, raw, cold pressed version as this is the best for giving you all the health benefits. It can be a little pricey but a little bit goes along way.