Coconut Oil Uses And Benefits

Coconut Oil Uses And Benefits

Just a few years ago, fat was considered a four-letter word. Everyone was rushing out to buy low-fat and fat-free foods. But the truth is and always has been, our bodies need some types of fat. In fact, it is a major energy source.

Coconut oil contains fatty acids that have a positive effect on our health. Coconut oil can help keep your body running smoother, and it’s heart healthy. Not only is it heart-healthy it also plays a positive role on thyroid hormones and blood sugar. Coconut oil boosts thyroid function increasing metabolism, energy levels and endurance. Coconut oil is also known to improve the bodies use of insulin helping people better control blood sugar.

Years ago diabetes was something seldom heard of. However today it is on the rise. 100 years ago people did not eat highly processed foods; fats were regularly used in higher amounts then we use them today. The fats used were either rendered from animals, olive oil or coconut oils depending on where you lived.

Coconut oil is a refined product because oil does not grow on trees. If you are planning on taking coconut oil as a nutritional supplement, you’ll want to buy “virgin coconut oil.” “Virgin coconut oil” is coconut oil that is produced without dried “copra.” “Copra” refers dried coconut that is removed from the coconut shell but needs to be further refined before it is edible.

When using coconut oil as a nutritional supplement, consume 3 1/2 to 4 tablespoons a day. While some people do take it all at once, it has been recommended to spread it out over the course of a day and to take it along with another food that is high in protein and fiber. You can even add it into your recipes. Be sure to check out our easy and healthy Strawberry And Pineapple Protein Smoothie Recipe Made With Coconut Oil.

Another thing that coconut oil is great for, is your hair. Not only does it help when taken as a nutritional supplement, you can use right on your hair. Simply place a little coconut oil in your hands and rub together. Then rub it into the dry ends of your hair. Let is set for 12 – 24 hours and then wash as normal. If you will be sleeping when it is on, you can wear a shower cap to bed to keep it off your pillow.