Why Use Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is becoming a staple item in households across Australia due to its range of potential health benefits.
Coconut oil is one of the richest sources of saturated fat, with almost 90% of the fatty acids in it being saturated, however, these saturated fats are medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which have shown to be extremely beneficial to the body in countless studies.
MCTs are fatty acids which are metabolized differently to long-chain fatty acids, MCTs go straight from the digestive tract to the liver where they are used as a fast-acting source of energy as well as being turned into ketones which have shown to increase brain faction.
Due to the MCTs found within coconut oil, it is one of the best to use for cooking, including high-heat cooking such as frying, as the fatty acids retain their structure when heated unlike polyunsaturated fatty acids found within vegetable oils which structurally change into trans fats when heated.
Benefits of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil also contains Lauric acid which can kill harmful pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi within the body. Studies have shown that coconut oil, can assist in strengthening your immune system as well as prevent infection and aid in the healing process of tissue damage and skin irritations. It also encourages hydration and nourishes the skin and hair.
Coconut oil may promote healthy liver, kidney, and brain function as well as good cholesterol and regulating blood pressure which in turn may help prevent heart disease.
Coconut oil can be supportive to the digestive system as it is easily digested and turned into energy which increases the metabolism by removing stress on the pancreas. Studies also show that coconut oil assists the body in absorbing nutrients and helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and endocrine system.
There are currently studies being conducted on antioxidants called polyphenols, which are found withincoconut oil. There have been extremely positive results regarding its effects on swelling and inflammation caused by arthritis and similar aliments.
Please note: This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Results may vary from individual to individual.
