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Coconut Oil Research

Organic Virgin Coconut Oil: Incorporating healthy saturated fats into your diet

Coconut oil contains a high proportion of saturated fats relative to other vegetable oils. However, the lipid composition present in coconut oil promotes a healthy ratio of cholesterol that is associated with a reduced risk in cardiovascular challenges. Furthermore, coconut oil has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that support its use as an essential component for a healthy diet.

Coconut oil promotes cardiovascular health

The chemical structure of fatty acids determines how the body breaks down and utilizes the ingested triglycerides[source]. The term "saturated fats" encompasses a wide variety of fatty acids, from vegetable oils to animal fat. Coconut oil predominately contains medium chain triglycerides, most importantly lauric acid and myristic acid, which have known health benefits despite their classification as saturated fats.

A diet high in saturated fats can result in cardiovascular challenges. However the consumption of coconut oil has been shown to promote cardiovascular heath by increasing the ratio of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or commonly know as increasing "good cholesterol." A clinical trial assessing the nutritional intake of coconut oil found an increase in the HDL:LDL ratio without an increase in circulating triglycerides[source]. A second clinical trial examined the effects of integrating coconut oil into the diet of an obese population. In addition to replicating previous findings of increased healthy cholesterol, this study reported that the cohort supplemented with coconut oil achieved a significant reduction in waist circumference[source]. Overall, the current research suggests that the saturated fat content of coconut oil actually promotes healthy cardiovascular function and its use as a replacement for other oils can reduce abdominal fat.

Anti-inflammatory and dermalogical properties

The high concentration of lauric acid and polyphenols in coconut oil has been shown to possess anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Coconut oil not only has a long history of use as ingestible oil, but also as a topical ointment. Studies show that the biological active compounds present in coconut oil mitigate the acute inflammatory response in the skin that can occur during acne or sun exposure[source]. A double-blinded study compared use of coconut or olive oil to diminish skin dryness and reduce harmful microbes. Coconut oil was most effective in eliminating harmful bacteria and fungi that can contribute to adult dermatitis[5].

The numerous health benefits associated with coconut oil, particularly to the cardiovascular system, have been directly confirmed through scientific research and support a moderate use of this oil as a source of fat. In addition, the extracted oil can be used as a dietary additive or applied directly to the skin as a natural, anti-microbial agent moisturizer. Overall, the organic virgin coconut oil sold here at Onnit� Labs serves as a valuable replacement for many cooking oils or skin products.

Reference

• 5.) Zakaria, Z.A., et al., In vivo antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of dried and fermented processed virgin coconut oil. Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre, 2011. 20(3): p. 231-6.

Coconut Oil Ingredients

Using coconut oil as a dietary source of MCTs

As a dietary supplement, take 1 to 4 tablespoons of Coconut Oil daily. It may be used as a spread or added to salad dressings and smoothies.

Good for cooking: Use Coconut Oil in place of butter, margarine, shortening, or other cooking oils for baking or frying in temperatures up to 350°F. Here's a tasty tip that is sure to become a family favorite: drip melted coconut oil over popcorn instead of butter. It's delicious!

Using coconut oil beyond just eating and cooking

Grab your body lotion, face cream, hair conditioner, or lip balm and look at their ingredients. There is a good chance you will find a few questionable ones, including lots of unwanted chemicals. Thank goodness Mother Nature gave us coconut oil as a pure, natural alternative.

Skin care: Use Coconut Oil as a natural moisturizing lotion. Place jar in warm water to liquify, then massage small amounts on the skin.

Hair care: Use Coconut Oil as a natural conditioner. Place jar in warm water to liquefy, then apply two teaspoons to your hair 1-2 hours before washing.

Note about use: Coconut Oil is solid at room temperature, but naturally melts and becomes liquid at 76°F. It returns to solid when cooled.