Coconut oil is gaining popularity for a variety of uses, from making lotions and soaps at home to regrowing hair. With all the attention it has received in the media – including a plug on the Dr. Oz Show – you may be wondering just what’s in it for you.
Coconut oil benefits
Some health experts caution against consuming all types of saturated fat, particularly that found in meat and dairy products. While coconut oil is higher in saturated fat than most other plant foods, one of the saturated fats present in coconut oil has been shown to raise “good” (HDL) cholesterol levels and lower “bad” (LDL) cholesterol. This saturated fat is a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) called lauric acid, and it is believed to lower cholesterol by promoting its conversion to a precursor to vital hormones in the body.
There are potential weight loss benefits to using coconut oil as well. This is because MCTs tend not to be stored in the body for long periods of time. Unlike the long-chain triglycerides present in animal-based saturated fats, MCTs go straight to the liver where they are converted into energy you can use right away. Coconut oil can also be of help to those who struggle to lose weight due to an underactive thyroid, since underactive thyroid, reduced metabolic function, low energy levels and weight gain all go hand-in-hand. Let coconut oil help you achieve your weight-loss goals by kick-starting your metabolism!
Preliminary research also suggests that the antioxidant compounds present in coconut oil can help to fight ageing and also boost the immune system against viruses and bacteria.
So if you would like to reap the benefits of coconut oil, but find that you are having a hard time incorporating it into your diet you might want to try taking coconut oil supplements, which now come in pill form.
Coconut oil pills: What to look for
When shopping for coconut oil supplements, remember that not all coconut oil pills are created equal. Supplements made from organic coconut oil are preferable, since conventionally grown coconuts tend to have a high residual pesticide content and you don’t want to be taking in any toxic chemicals if you can avoid it. Coconut oil supplements are typically available in soft-gel capsules. Vegetarians not wanting to consume soft-gels containing gelatin are advised to look for vegetarian-friendly alternatives, which are typically made from corn or soy. Recommendations for usage are typically 1-2 capsules three times per day (e.g. at mealtimes).
Coconut pills are available from most nutrition shops and from many online retailers. With so many potential benefits, coconut oil pills are a great way to keep you looking and feeling your absolute best.
