Coconut oil is considered a miracle fat, promoted by bloggers and celebrities alike. But is it really that healthy?
The short answer is - yes and no.
Coconut oil is high in saturated fat, which can be problematic for some people, especially those on a low-fat diet.
A healthier option would be to use vegetable oils, such as olive or canola oil, when cooking at home.
However, if you're looking for an alternative to butter or margarine for toast, coconut oil may be just what you need!
Is coconut oil healthy?
Coconut oil is generally considered very healthy.
If you want to make your breakfast healthier, there are plenty of options to choose from. Butter and margarine are staples of the average breakfast table—but they're not all that good for you.
Especially if you want to limit saturated fat or cholesterol, which can lead to heart disease over time.
Fortunately, coconut oil can be a perfect substitute. Coconut oil is made up of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which provide your body with more energy than the long-chain triglycerides found in other oils, such as vegetable oils. Unlike other oils, which break down when heated to produce trans fats (harmful fatty acids), coconut oil does not break down at high temperatures.
Coconut oil also contains lauric acid, which is known for its antioxidant properties.
Benefits of coconut oil
According to some studies, coconut oil has very positive health effects.
It contains high amounts of saturated fats, which are great for keeping your skin feeling hydrated and soft. These fats also act as a protective layer to prevent your skin from drying out.
Additionally, coconut oil helps reduce stress, reduces asthma symptoms, and even aids in oral hygiene.
Coconut oil also has a higher smoke point than most oils, making it a good choice for people who want to cook or fry with it. It's also a healthier alternative to butter, especially if you're looking to reduce the number of calories you consume each day.
Negatives of coconut oil
As mentioned earlier, coconut oil is high in saturated fat, which means it could be problematic for people on a low-fat diet, as one tablespoon of coconut oil contains 121 calories.
Coconuts are also susceptible to mold due to their high moisture content.
The taste of coconut oil can be affected by other flavors, making it difficult to use in cooking or baking.
Recently, there have also been voices that the cultivation and production of coconut oil is more harmful to nature than the cultivation of palm oil.
Conclusion
Coconut oil is a healthy and natural product with many benefits. The negative effects of coconut oil can be caused by its properties, the method of production, and even excessive consumption.
However, to get the most out of this oil, use coconut oil that is organic (BIO), virgin, cold-pressed without any additives.
