10 EVIDENCE-BASED HEALTH BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL

Coconut Oil is a fat extracted from the coconut palms. Used as both a cooking alternative and delicacy among cultures, it comes in two different types: refined and unrefined. Refined coconut oils generally have a less original coconut flavor, while other oils often retain this distinctive aroma. This type of oil has various uses in household products as well as different types of food.

Coconut oil comes from the coconuts (Cocos nucifera) found in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Coconut oil production has been around for many years, starting with people harvesting coconuts and pressing them to release their essential oils.

The history of Coconut oil is almost as old as 4000 years. Of the documented historical applications for edible and healing properties of this fruit, all have been positive. So many different purposes for these trees have impacted how humans live - but the fruit, coconut flesh, milk, water, and oil that hold intrinsically commercial values.

The Philippines is the leading coconut oil producer, at least twice as much as Indonesia or India., at least twice as much as Indonesia or India. Coconut oil has no cholesterol and small amounts of vitamins, minerals, and plant sterols. Plant sterols have a chemical structure that mimics blood cholesterol, which may help the absorption of it in the body.

Benefits Of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is loved by many, and for good reasons. Coconut oil offers many health benefits, tastes great, and is readily available. There are several ways to use coconut oil; you may still need to learn about its uses.

Coconut Oil May Encourage Fat Burning-

Coconut oil is an excellent source of MCTs and saturated fat. In general, we can divide saturated fats into three groups- long-chain, medium-chain, and short-chain. Coconut oil contains 65% MCT, making it a potential fat burner. However, there is currently no reliable research to support the claim that coconut oil can make you lose weight.

It May work as a quick energy source-

Coconut Oil is rich in a fatty acid called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These MCTs provide an instant energy source when needed most since they go directly to the liver, where they are converted into ketone bodies and sent off as fuel for muscles. Unlike long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), which take longer to break down because they first require breaking down before being absorbed by your body, medium-chain triglycerides provide immediate relief from fatigue and promote mental clarity so that you can think more clearly.

It May have antimicrobial effects-

Coconut oil is enriched with MCTs, which release quick bursts of energy while also having antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties due to its high lauric acid content. Studies show that this fatty acid could be effective against the spread of disease-causing organisms.

Coconut Oil May help reduce hunger-

One exciting benefit of MCTs is that they help reduce food intake. A proportion of MCTs you eat break down in a process that produces molecules called ketones. Ketones curb appetite by either acting directly on the neurotransmitters or altering hormone levels for hunger-inducing substances, such as ghrelin. Though coconut oil is one of the richest sources of MCTs available today, there is still no evidence suggesting it reduces appetite more than other oils.

It May help reduce seizures-

People have long used keto diets, which are very low in carbs and high in fats, to treat various disorders, including drug-resistant epilepsy. They help reduce how often seizures happen. Studies show that MCTs (medium chain triglycerides) found in coconut oil may help increase blood ketones and even lower the number of epileptic episodes experienced.

It May boost skin health-

Studies have shown that coconut oil boosts the moisture content of dry skin. Also, it helps to improve the function of the skin, which prevents excessive water loss and protects oneself from outside factors such as infection, chemicals, or allergens.

It May protect your hair-

It also helps protect hair from damage. A Study has shown that because it deeply penetrates hair strands and makes them more flexible- coconut oil strengthens these weak pieces of our bodies so they won't break under pressure.

It May improve oral health-

Evidence shows that using coconut oil as a mouthwash—a process called oil pulling—cost-effectively benefits oral hygiene. When used for about 10 minutes each day, it has been shown to significantly lower the number of harmful bacteria present within one's teeth and gums.

It May help reduce symptoms of Alzheimer's disease-

Alzheimer's disease is the leading cause of Dementia. This condition lessens the brain's capacity to release glucose for energy. However, research has shown that Ketones in coconut oil counteract early symptoms of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease by offering other fuel sources for the brain and its cells.

Coconut Oil Has Good antioxidant source-

Coconut Oil has many benefits for the body, including natural antioxidants - substances that protect cells from oxidative damage caused by environmental factors such as cigarette smoke and pollution. These compounds help prevent damage to other bodily structures that can lead to chronic or degenerative diseases. A recent study also indicates a link between coconut oil consumption, specifically its MCTs- lauric acid content-and reduced rates of diabetes-related complications.

Summing Up On Benefits of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has many benefits to one's health, from cooking or adding it to your diet. New Studies have shown that people who consume coconut oil can see their LDL (bad) cholesterol levels lower and their HDL (good) cholesterol levels rise. There are also a variety of medicinal uses for this type of oil. For example, eczema sufferers often find relief through this product; additionally, premature babies who need growth tend to show improvement when coconut oil is applied topically. On the other hand, there is little-to-no scientific evidence that this product can help cure various diseases such as cancer or heart disease.