Benefits of Coconut Oil

BENEFITS OF USING COCONUT OIL

Where does Coconut Oil come from? Well coconuts of course. The coconut itself is thought to have originated in the South Pacific in New Guinea from a variety of prehistoric plants. “Coco” was the name given to the fruit as a result of sailor’s who used the term to define a “hob-goblin & grimacing type face” the word nut was added from the English locals when the “coco’s” were brought over from the South Pacific. The coconut is made up of the hard shelled exterior as well as a soft white meaty interior which also contains water at its very core. The inside meat is known to be rich in protein while the milk is both low in sugar yet extremely refreshing. While those other coconut parts are important the subject of today’s article is on this fruit’s useful oil known to us as “Coconut Oil.” Many health advocates suggest this oil is packed with boosters of both metabolism and overall energy for the consumer. Available both refined and unrefined, the oil is extracted from the “coconut kernels” found in the white meat or the “endosperm” and is extremely rich in what are known as “medium-chain” fatty acids (MCFA’s) composed of Caprylic, Lauric and Capric acid with 90% of its fat coming in the form of heart-healthy saturated fats.

Now that we know the science behind this oil, how can we use it to benefit us? Here are just some benefits of this powerful oil.

Brain Health: The medium chain fatty acid component to coconut oil is said to be extremely beneficial to the health of our brains. MCFA’S are extremely efficient at providing energy to the brain and body as a result of their ability to immediately be converted by the liver into ketones which are then burnt for energy production.

Digestion: Intake of coconut oil provides fat soluble components vitamins & magnesium while also helping defend the body against things like candida or bacterial overgrowth ideally benefiting the immune system and aiding our body’s ability to recover and heal itself efficiently.

Oral Health: Coconut Oil attacks the harmful bacteria inside our mouths, which are thought to cause plaque build up, tooth decay, cavities and a whole host of other health issues resulting from too much “bad” bacteria in the system. This ability to fight against bad bacteria is caused by the Lauric acid within Coconut Oil and its ability to kill streptococcus mutans which is thought to be the main culprit behind dental decay.

Wound Healing: Wounds treated with Coconut oil were shown in one study to heal much faster due to the oils ability to increase epithelialization and various other components necessary to build skin. Coconut oil is also thought to be extremely beneficial to wound healing as a result of its ability to help aid against infectious bacteria.

In conclusion, Coconut oil may have its drawbacks but here is a list of some of its possible benefits offered to those seeking assistance in brain health, digestion, oral health and even wound healing….Coconut oil could be yet another solid addition to your health regimen!