Coconut oil is mother natures superfood thanks to its unique combination of fatty acids. It has been scientifically shown to have a positive effect on your health by boosting fat loss, heart health and brain function.
Here are 6 evidence-based health benefits of coconut oil.
1. Fatty Acids
Coconut oil is high in certain saturated fats which have a different effect on the body then other types of fats. Those found in Coconut oil are medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) rather then long chain triglycerides.
The fatty acids found in coconut oil provide quick energy and are a good cholesterol which may help to reduce heart disease.
2. Fat Burning
Not all calories are created equal and different calories can affect your body and hormones in different ways.
The MCTs in coconut oil may increase the number of calories your body burns compared to other types of fatty acids leading to more effective weight loss.
3. Reduce Hunger
A recent study looked into the effects of eating MCTs and found those who consumed them ate less calories per day. Another study found that of 14 men who ate MCTs for breakfast, 12 of them ate fewer calories at lunch.
This is why many people swear by bullet proof coffee in the mornings as a way to better manage energy levels and hunger.
4. Good for Hair, Skin and Teeth
Coconut oil has many uses beyond just eating it! Many people use it as a natural alternative in their beauty routine.
Studies have shown that coconut oil can improve dry skin and reduce eczema, and is a wonderful treatment for dry and damaged hair. There have even been studies that show it may work as a natural sunscreen blocking out 20% of UV rays.
Oil pulling is another great beauty treatment that involves swishing oil around the mouth like a mouthwash and is an effective natural alternative to chemical laden products found at the supermarket. It removes harmful bacteria which assists with healthier teeth and gums, and bad breath.
5. Antimicrobial
Lauric acid makes up 50% of the fatty acids found in coconut oil. When your body digests lauric acid it turns into something call monolaurin. Both the lauric acid and the monolaurin can kill bacteria, virus and fungi and is why swishing with coconut oil in the mouth is so effective at removing harmful bacteria.
6. Healthy Heart
Coconut might be the new darling ingredient in the western world, but in some countries they have been eating it for generations.
A study into the diets of an island in the South Pacific found that 60% of their calories came from coconuts and that overall their heart diseases rates were lower than in other areas of the world.
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