Coconut oil has been used for centuries as a vital source of food for health and general wellbeing in traditional communities of tropical regions. Recent research verifies traditional beliefs that the coconut palm is “The Tree of Life” and that, just like any other pure, whole food, coconuts and virgin coconut oil have a significant role to play in a well balanced, nutritious diet.
Research shows that replacing other cooking oils with virgin coconut oil generally creates a more favorable HDL/LDL ratio. This oil has antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiprotozoal properties and, like all whole foods, contains nutrients for a healthy body.
Coconut oil is not only the highest source of saturated fats (92%) but included in this is the highest source of saturated medium chain triglycerides (62%) of any naturally occurring vegan food source. Furthermore, around 50% of these MCT’s are made up of lauric acid, the most important essential fatty acid in building and maintaining the body’s immune system. Apart from coconut oil, the only other source of lauric acid found in such high concentrations is in monther’s milk.
Coconut oil is highly heat resistant and will only oxidize at temperatures above 198 degrees Celsius due to its high concentration of saturated fats. Coconut oil is therefore a healthy oil to cook with.
A recommended consumption of coconut oil is 2 – 4 tablespoons per day. You can add it to smoothies, cakes, bread and muffins to name a few.
Click here for a coconut oil morning smoothie recipe!
