Coconut Oil – Your Secret Weapon For Optimal Health And Wellness
Explore the many benefits of coconut oil for weight loss, skin, hair, brain function, and heart health. Use it daily for optimal wellness.
Coconut oil is often referred to as a “superfood” due to its numerous health benefits.
It can aid in fat loss by increasing feelings of fullness and helping to burn fat, as well as improve skin and hair health.
Additionally, it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, may improve brain function, and may help to prevent heart disease.
Rather than simply using coconut oil as a food item, it can also be used as a treatment for various health concerns.
Just a friendly tip: Don’t use the refined stuff from your market, choose only virgin coconut oil if you really want to get all its benefits.
Top 10 Health Benefits Of Coconut Oil
Here are the top 10 health benefits of coconut oil, baked by science:
1. Has Powerful Medicinal Properties
Coconut oil is a versatile and powerful natural remedy, thanks to its high concentration of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
These unique fatty acids are metabolized differently by the body, which gives them a range of therapeutic effects on various health conditions.
Studies have shown that coconut oil can have a beneficial impact on several brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s and epilepsy.
The MCTs present in coconut oil are quickly absorbed and taken to the liver, where they are converted into ketones, which can be used as an alternative fuel for the brain.
This can help to improve cognitive function and may even help to prevent or slow down the progression of certain brain disorders.
2. Coconut Consumers Are Really Healthy
Populations that consume a significant amount of coconut in their diet are known to have exceptional health outcomes.
The Tokelauans, for example, get more than 60% of their daily calorie intake from coconuts, yet there is no evidence of heart disease among them.
This is likely due to the unique properties of coconut oil, which is rich in MCTs that have been shown to have a beneficial impact on heart health.
Another example of a healthy population that consumes a lot of coconuts is the Kitavans.
Studies have shown that the Kitavans have low rates of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes despite consuming a diet that is high in coconut.
This suggests that the regular consumption of coconut can have a positive impact on overall health and well-being.
3. Helps You Burn More Fat
Coconut oil is a powerful natural weight loss aid, thanks to its high concentration of medium-chain triglycerides.
These unique fatty acids have been shown to help increase energy expenditure and burn more fat.
Studies have found that consuming MCTs, such as those found in coconut oil, can help to boost the metabolism and increase the number of calories burned throughout the day.
One study found that consuming MCTs can increase 24-hour energy expenditure by up to 120 calories, which can help to speed up weight loss and improve body composition.
Additionally, MCTs can help to reduce appetite, which can also aid in weight loss.
Therefore, incorporating coconut oil into your diet can help you burn more fat and may help you reach your weight loss goals.
4. Kills Bacteria, Viruses, And Fungi
Coconut oil has powerful antimicrobial properties that can help to kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
The saturated fats found in coconut oil, such as lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid, have been shown to have antimicrobial effects.
These fatty acids create a hostile environment for harmful pathogens, making it difficult for them to survive and thrive.
One of the most well-known benefits of coconut oil is its ability to fight candida, a type of yeast that can cause infections in the mouth, throat, and genital area.
Coconut oil has been shown to be effective in killing candida, and it has been used as a natural remedy for candida overgrowth for centuries.
It can also be beneficial in preventing other types of infections such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, which are bacteria that can cause skin infections, food poisoning, and urinary tract infections.
The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil can also help to prevent fungal infections such as ringworm and jock itch.
Therefore, incorporating this oil into your diet or using it topically can help to prevent infections by killing harmful pathogens. And it could be a natural alternative to help prevent and fight against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
5. Makes You Eat Less Without Even Trying
It can help you eat less without even trying. The MCTs found in coconut oil have been shown to reduce appetite, which can lead to a reduction in calorie intake.
Studies have found that consuming MCTs can lead to a significant reduction in hunger and an increase in feelings of fullness.
One study found that consuming coconut oil led to a reduction in calorie intake of about 250 calories per day. This suggests that it can help to reduce appetite and make it easier to stick to a calorie-controlled diet.
Therefore, it helps to reduce appetite and makes it easier to stick to a calorie-controlled diet. This, over the long term, can be a winning weight loss formula.
6. Can Reduce Seizures
Coconut oil has been shown to have a positive effect on reducing seizures in epileptic patients, particularly those that are resistant to traditional antiepileptic drugs.
The medium-chain triglycerides found in the oil have been found to be effective in reducing seizures by increasing the blood concentration of ketone bodies.
Ketone bodies are produced when the body burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. They are produced in the liver from fatty acids and can be used as an alternative fuel for the brain.
The ketones produced by MCTs have been found to have anticonvulsant properties, which can help to reduce seizures in patients with epilepsy.
Therefore, incorporating coconut oil into your diet, particularly for those with epilepsy, may help to reduce their seizures.
It is though important to note that this should be recommended by a medical professional and under their guidance.
7. Improve Blood Cholesterol Levels
Coconut oil has been found to have a positive effect on blood cholesterol levels, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease.
The MCTs found in coconut oil have been found to have a beneficial effect on blood cholesterol levels by:
- Reducing total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol;
- And increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, as it can build up in the walls of the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.
HDL cholesterol, on the other hand, is often referred to as “good” cholesterol, as it helps to remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.
Studies have found that consuming coconut oil can lead to a reduction in total and LDL cholesterol and an increase in HDL cholesterol.
This suggests that consuming this oil can help to improve the overall cholesterol profile and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Important Note: Not all studies agree on the effects of coconut oil on cholesterol levels, and some studies suggest that coconut oil may increase LDL cholesterol. So it is important to consult with a doctor or a dietitian before making any changes to your diet.
8. Protects Skin And Hair Against Damage
Coconut oil has a wide range of benefits for the skin and hair, making it a popular choice for those looking for natural skincare and haircare solutions.
One of the most notable benefits of coconut oil for the skin is its ability to act as a natural sunscreen. The oil contains lauric acid, which is known to block up to 20% of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.
This makes it a great alternative to traditional sunscreens, which can contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin.
It can also be used as a moisturizer, helping to keep the skin hydrated and soft. The oil is easily absorbed by the skin, making it a great choice for dry or sensitive skin.
Additionally, coconut oil has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the skin against damage caused by free radicals.
Coconut oil can also be used as a natural hair care solution. The oil is rich in fatty acids, which can help to nourish and strengthen the hair.
When used as a pre-wash treatment, it can help to protect the hair from damage caused by heat styling and chemical treatments.
Additionally, coconut oil can be used as a deep-conditioning treatment, helping to leave the hair soft and shiny.
9. Boosts Brain Function
Coconut oil has been found to have a positive impact on brain function, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.
Its MCTs found can provide an alternative energy source for the brain cells of Alzheimer’s patients, helping to alleviate symptoms.
Studies have shown that consuming coconut oil can increase the levels of ketone bodies in the blood, which can provide a source of energy for the brain.
This is particularly beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer’s, as the disease affects the brain’s ability to use glucose as an energy source.
By providing an alternative energy source, the MCTs in coconut oil can help to improve brain function and relieve symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, and disorientation.
Additionally, it may also be able to support cognitive function in healthy individuals. Some studies have shown that consuming this oil can improve focus, attention, and overall cognitive performance.
10. Helps You Lose Abdominal Fat
Coconut oil can be an effective tool for weight loss, specifically for reducing abdominal fat.
The MCTs found in coconut oil have been shown to increase fat burning and reduce appetite, making it an ideal addition to a weight loss plan.
A study conducted over a period of one month found that consuming 1 ounce (30ml) of coconut oil each day led to a reduction in waist circumference of 1.1 inches (28 mm) without the need for exercise or calorie restriction.
This suggests that coconut oil can be an effective way to target abdominal fat specifically, which is often a concern for many people trying to lose weight.
Additionally, MCTs have been found to increase energy expenditure, which means that the body burns more calories at rest.
This, combined with its appetite-reducing effects, can lead to a significant reduction in body fat over time.
10 More Uses And Benefits Of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has many uses and benefits beyond those already mentioned, including:
1. Improving Oral Health
It has antimicrobial properties that can help to reduce plaque and bacteria in the mouth, making it a popular ingredient in natural toothpastes and mouthwashes.
2. Improving Digestion
Consuming coconut oil can help to improve digestion and nutrient absorption, as well as reduce inflammation in the gut.
3. Boosting Energy And Endurance
The MCTs can be quickly metabolized by the body for energy, making this oil a popular choice for athletes and active individuals.
4. Supporting Joint Health
Coconut oil can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints, making it beneficial for those with conditions like arthritis.
5. Improving Sleep
This oil can help to increase the body’s production of ketones, which can promote deeper, more restful sleep.
6. Reducing Feelings Of Coldness
There is some evidence to suggest that coconut oil can improve circulation and help you warm your body if you often feel cold.
The medium-chain triglycerides can increase energy expenditure, which may help to improve circulation and reduce feelings of coldness.
Additionally, coconut oil is a good source of lauric acid, which has been shown to improve lipid profiles and decrease inflammation, which can also improve circulation.
7. Natural Deodorant Alternative
It has antimicrobial properties that can help to reduce odor-causing bacteria on the skin.
Additionally, it can be mixed with other natural ingredients like baking soda or cornstarch to create a deodorant paste.
8. Natural Aftershave And Shaving Cream
Its moisturizing properties can help to soothe and hydrate the skin after shaving, preventing dryness, irritation, and razor burn.
It can also provide a protective barrier for the skin which can help to reduce the risk of cuts and nicks.
9. Eye Makeup Remover
It can help to gently remove makeup, including waterproof mascara, without irritating the delicate skin around the eyes.
Additionally, its antimicrobial properties can help to reduce the risk of infection.
10. Natural Chapstick
As it is a natural emollient, it can help to moisturize and protect dry, chapped lips.
It can be used on its own or mixed with other natural ingredients, such as beeswax or honey, to create a homemade chapstick.
Important note: Not all these extra uses of coconut oil have been scientifically proven.
The Takeaway
Coconut oil is a versatile and healthy oil that has a wide range of benefits for our bodies.
It is a rich source of medium-chain triglycerides which can provide energy and support weight loss. It can also help reduce seizures, improve blood cholesterol levels, boost brain function, and protect skin and hair against damage.
Its antimicrobial properties also make it useful in preventing infections and promoting oral health.
It can also be used in various ways such as a natural deodorant, shaving cream, eye makeup remover, and chapstick.
With so many benefits, it is worth considering adding coconut oil to your daily routine.
