A few years ago, a popular national magazine called coconut oil a "miracle food" that demonstrated its ability to burn fat, aid thyroid gland and increase energy. As you can imagine, everyone flocked to health food stores and ended the supply of nations with coconut oil. Manufacturers have not been able to meet the demand for high quality pure coconut oil. During this time, several companies began selling less expensive, processed, and refined coconut oil that was popular in the pocket.
Once again, coconut oil is back in the headlines and consumers are out shopping for the best price. Consumer be careful… these low quality coconut oil does not have the same promise as high quality organic, pure quality. Low-grade coconut oil starts with coconuts that are separated and left exposed to dry. Due to the high temperature and humidity in the tropics, coconuts are at risk of growing mold and attracting flies. From there, harmful solvents are used to extract oil and additional chemicals are used to bleach them back to their original white color. All the health benefits are now depleted and the rest are odorless, tasteless and pure fats that can cause damage to your body from eating them. I also want to say that most of the salad oils and cooking oils sold in the market are also very refined and basically produced in the same way as I explained above. Always make sure all the fats you eat are cold pressed (no chemical solvents or heat used) and preferably organic.
To get the health benefits of coconut oil, it must be organic and virgin. This means that coconuts are grown naturally without pesticides or pesticides. Then they are pressed “by hand” or “machine” without the use of solvents. It retains a creamy, naturally white oil with a delicious coconut aroma.
In addition to fat burning and stimulating thyroid benefits should be given coconut oil, it is also known to improve conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, Crohn's, IBS, and diabetes to name a few. It is rich in lauric acid with antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is known to reduce the risk of heart disease and lower cholesterol.
You can use coconut oil for cooking, in salads, spread it over toast, vegetables or added to protein drinks. It doesn't even have to be in the fridge. The room temperature is right. It has a shelf life of 1-2 years.
Coconut oil can be used extensively for moisturizing and toning. It makes the skin feel like silk, even for those with very dry skin. It also helps to prevent wear and tear by keeping tight connections. It will remove the outer layer of dead skin cells, making the skin wrinkle and give it a youthful appearance.
This column, provided by Michael Comeau, is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose or treat disease. Always consult your doctor when seeking medical advice.
Coconut oil has many nutrients that can contribute to your health and to a good diet. It's full of fatty acids that your body needs and may help improve cognitive function, metabolism, and hair and skin health
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