There are a variety of healthy oils to consider. Among the choices, coconut oil is popular and produced in tropical regions around the globe. Coconut meat (nutmeat) provides nutrition as does the milk and oil harvested from the coconut. Coconut oil is high in saturated fats and is used in food flavoring and cooking. Lauric acid is also found in coconut oil and is believed to have several health benefits. Include it properly in your diet to get most from the health benefits.
How Much Coconut Oil Per Day?
1. Daily Dosage
Watch this short video to hear from an expert about how much coconut oil is recommended. Note that coconut oil, like all food oils, will turn to solid when the temperature drops to a certain point. This does not change the health benefits of the oil.
2. Considerations
Hydrogenated is a bad word. Avoid this ingredient in food sources as much as possible. Chose virgin coconut oil and make sure it has not been hydrogenated. One tablespoon of coconut oil contains 117 calories. If you suffer from high cholesterol, use coconut oil sparingly because it’s high in saturated fat. Be sure to talk to your doctor before adding coconut oil to your daily food regimen if you suffer from cholesterol issues.
Health Benefits of Coconut Oil
For thousands of years the coconut tree has been considered the "Tree of Life" among tropical communities due to its nutritional content. Natural foods are an excellent way to regain your health and battle the detrimental effects of a busy lifestyle.
1. Boost Immune System
Coconuts contain high concentrations of lauric acid. The metabolite, monolaurin, is known to possess antibacterial and antifungal properties as well as fight parasites. This acid destroys the cell membranes and helps fight off a number of infections.
2. Promote Digestion
The fatty acids found in coconut help ease indigestion and eliminate bloating, gas and cramps after eating. The oil content can also help regulate bowel movements.
3. Lose Weight
Coconuts contain the healthy type of saturated fat known as medium-chain saturated fatty acids. These are absorbed and taken to the liver where they are rapidly converted to energy as opposed to being stored as fat. This aids in weight loss. The added benefit is improved energy for brain and muscle use.
4. Increase Metabolism
The rapid conversion of coconut oil into energy will boost your metabolic rate and help burn fat much faster. Then end result is improved weight and fat loss due the optimized performance of your metabolic system.
5. Prevent Diabetes
Obesity is clearly linked to diabetes, especially type 2. Obese persons are prone to insulin resistance and adding coconut oil to the diet can help combat this problem as well as fostering weight loss.
Tips for Using Coconut Oil in Diet
1. Cook at High Heat
Coconut oil is suitable for cooking at high heat. Other oils are prone to smoking and burning and will loose their pleasant taste at high temperatures. Coconut oil is a great alternative when your recipe calls for higher cooking temperatures.
3. Add in Smoothies
The rich content of medium-chain triglycerides found in coconut oil make it a perfect ingredient for your favorite smoothie. You will enjoy an added boost in energy and great taste as well.
4. Fry Eggs
Coconut oil works great to create a non-stick cooking surface. Use a small amount to lightly coat the bottom of a skillet or pain and enjoy eggs that don't stick to the pan.
5. Pop Popcorn
Coconut oil is an excellent alternative to vegetable oil for making stovetop popcorn. Start out by coating the bottom of your popcorn pan with coconut oil. Then add the kernels and shake or stir to evenly coat. Place the pot over medium heat and gently shake to keep the kernels from burning. After the kernels begin to pop, place a lid on to keep the popcorn from flying out of the pot. Be sure to leave a little gap so that the steam can escape. You can enjoy as is or season with your favorite spices.
6. Bake Potato Chips
This simple home recipe generates amazing potato chips. Slice sweet or your favorite variety of potato into 1/8" slices. Brush both sides lightly and place on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and then bake the potatoes for 15 minutes. When done they should be lightly brown. Enjoy plain or add a dash of salt or spice. Let them cool for a bit and then enjoy.
7. Make Coffee
If you want an extra pick-me-up, try adding a spoonful of coconut oil to your morning coffee. The extra energy and smooth taste will get your day started right.
8. Add in Tea
Instead of milk or honey, add a spoonful of coconut oil to your tea. Let it melt and stir slowly to enjoy a mild flavor enhancer in your favorite cup of tea.
9. Add in Salad Dressings
Coconut oil adds the perfect flavor and texture to home made salad dressing. It provides a nice smooth flavor enhancement without being overbearing on the other ingredients. Mix 1/4 teaspoon virgin coconut oil with 1/2 teaspoon raw honey. Then add in 1 tablespoon of your favorite style of vinegar and add about 1/4 teaspoon of salt to taste. Wisk in a small bowel or use a dressing spinner to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are combined. You can consume immediately, but for an added infusion of flavor try simmering on the stovetop with a few spices added for an explosion of flavor.