Do you use Coconut oil?
No not the stuff you rub on yourself for an awesome tan but the food version.
Because it tolerates high temperatures, coconut oil is a great substitute for shortening, butter, margarine, or vegetable oil.
If you’ve ever baked with it you’ll know it adds a lightness to muffins and cupcakes (use coconut flour for an amazing taste sensation)
But it’s useful for so much more as the infographic below shows us.
Nutritional Goodness Packed in Every Drop
Coconut oil isn’t just tasty—it’s a nutrient powerhouse. It contains antioxidants to fight free radicals, medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that your body can quickly use for energy, and beneficial fatty acids like lauric, caprylic, and capric acid. These components work together to support your skin, hair, immune system, and more.
Health and Healing Benefits of Coconut Oil
1. Skin Care
Thanks to its deeply penetrating and moisturizing properties, coconut oil makes an excellent natural skin conditioner. It protects against environmental damage, helps with eczema and acne, and even offers some UV protection.
2. Hair Care
Coconut oil nourishes hair from root to tip. It provides fatty acids and essential proteins that strengthen strands, prevent breakage, and encourage healthy growth. Many people even use it as a natural conditioner.
3. Stress Relief
The soothing aroma of coconut oil is a natural stress-buster. When massaged into the scalp or body, it helps relax muscles, improve circulation, and melt away tension.
4. Weight Loss
The fatty acids in coconut oil can help eliminate yeast overgrowth in the body, which often contributes to weight gain and fatigue. They’re also easy to digest and give your metabolism a boost, helping your body burn stored fat for fuel.
5. Immunity
Coconut oil contains unique saturated fats with antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties. Regular use can help strengthen your immune system and reduce the likelihood of getting sick.
6. Infections
Lauric acid, found only in limited amounts in nature, can destroy harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This means coconut oil may help fight everything from the common cold to athlete’s foot.
7. Digestion
MCT molecules in coconut oil are small enough to be quickly absorbed, making them easy on the stomach and pancreas. People with digestive issues like Crohn’s disease or gallbladder trouble may benefit from adding it to their diet.
8. Diabetes Support
Coconut oil may improve insulin sensitivity and help stabilize blood sugar levels over time. It can also protect against insulin resistance and even help prevent Type 1 diabetes.
9. Heart Health
While coconut oil is a fat, it’s not the kind that clogs arteries. In fact, it may actually help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and lower your risk of heart disease.
Final Tip
For the best benefits, always choose organic, unrefined, cold-pressed, extra-virgin coconut oil.