1 All fats are not created equal
Coconut oil contains short term medium-chain
saturated fatty acids (MCFAs), which is a
"healthy" form saturated fat compared to trans
fat. Trans fatty acid consumption is linked with
heart problems, depression and increased
cholesterol levels. What does consuming MCFA
fats in coconut oil mean for your body? Our body
metabolises these fats in the liver, immediately
coverting this into energy (fuel for the brain and
muscle function) rather than it being stored as
fat.
2 Controls weight
On 2009 study looked at the weight loss link
between women's consumption of coconut oil
and found that it reduces abdominal obesity.
Researchers discovered coconut oil is easy to
digest and also protects the body from insulin
resistance. To try coconut oil for weight loss
start by adding one teaspoon to your diet and
gradually work your way up to four teaspoons
per day.
3 Eases digestion
If you suffer from poor digestion or tummy
bloating try adding coconut oil to your diet.
Coconut oil has been found to benefit digestive
disorders including irritable bowel syndrome and
microbial related tummy bugs. Fatty acids in
coconut oil contain anti microbial properties,
which have a soothing affect on bacteria,
candida, or parasites that cause poor digestion.
4 Manage type 2 diabetes
recent study by the Garvan Institute of
Medical Research found that coconut oil protects
against insulin resistance, reducing the risk of
type 2 diabetes . MCFA fats are small enough to
be absorbed into the cells where they're quickly
converted to energy. It is this process that not
only reduces the amount of fat we pack into
storage, but improves insulin sensitivity.
5 Supports immunity
Coconut oil is made up of healthy fats lauric
acid, caprylic acid and capric acid which contain
antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral prosperities to
boost the immune system. Lauric acid contains
the highest concentration of MCFA fatty acids,
approximately 75 per cent. The body turn this fat
into monolaurin which is claimed to help heal
viruses such as herpes, influenza,
cytomegalovirus, helicobacter pylori and candida.
6 Boost metabolism
A study reported in the Journal of Nutrition found
that coconut oil boosts metabolism. Researchers
found that participants who consumed two
tablespoons of coconut oil per day burned more
kilojoules than those who consumed less. A
speedy metabolism helps boost the body's
immune system and keep weight off.
7 slowly fine lines
Coconut is not just for your cooking – it's a
wonderfully hydrating treat for skin too. It keeps
the skin's connective tissues strong, which
prevents sagging and wrinkles. Apply coconut oil
directly to your skin to soften the appearance of
fine lines or use it daily on your face and body
for a healthy glow. Be sure you use virgin
coconut oil with no additives
. 8 Cooks in high temperatures
Because coconut oil is a medium-chain saturated
fatty acid, it gives it a higher smoking
temperature than most polyunsaturated or
monounsaturated oils. If you're preparing recipes
that require high temperatures you should
consider coconut oil for this type of cooking.
Unlike olive oil which will oxidise at high
temperatures, creating free radicals
. 9 Stops sugar cravings
Instead of reaching for the lollie jar for an
afternoon sweet hit, try eating a teaspoon of
virgin coconut oil to beat sugar cravings. This is
because good quality fat is more satiating than
carbs, so if you cut down on sugar you will feel
less 'ravenous'. Most of us do not realize but
constant hunger is a major clue that your body is
not being fed correctly. With the proper amounts
of fats and protein, you can fuel your energy
reserves properly, and come off the sugar roller
coaster that many of us are on.
10 Coconut oil is simple to cook with
Try this recipe for a nutritious high protein,
gluten and dairy free coconut treat.
1 teaspoon of Niugini Organics Coconut Oil
(available from health food stores)
1 cup of almonds or walnuts
1 cup of organic dates
3-4 tablespoons of raw cocoa powder
Shredded coconut (check it contains no
preservatives)
Place all ingredients in a food processor. Roll
into small bite size balls and roll into shredded
coconut. Place in the refrigerator for 15 minutes
to set.
No comments:
Post a Comment