Why are health enthusiasts so well, enthusiastic about coconut oil? Nutritionist and Healthista blogger Rick Hay explains
Coconut oil so many uses to help us both internally and externally with wonderful health benefits that make it a must for any kitchen cupboard or bathroom cabinet. I recommend coconut oil to my clients daily so the hardest part of this piece has been trying to choose my top seven reasons.
Reason #1: It helps increase metabolism after eating
Coconut oil contains Medium Chain Triglycerides or MCTs, a special form of fatty acid. Amazingly research published in the International Journal of Obesity found just 400 calories of MCTs was capable of increasing your metabolism for at least 6 hours after digesting them. This is far more than other types of fat.
Reason #2: It helps fat burning
In a study published in the American Journal Of Clinical Nutrition, MCTS were also found to increase the rate at which other fats in the diet were burnt and used for energy. Put simply this means MCTs not only burn fat already on the body but they also help you burn the calories in your diet.
just 400 calories of Medium Chain Triglycerides [found in coconut oil] was capable of increasing your metabolism for at least 6 hours after digesting them
Reason #3: It’s anti-microbial, antibacterial and antiviral
It’s a super immune booster and can help reduce the length and severity of the common cold or flu and will relieve a sore throat due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is great to treat acne, scarring or athlete’s foot too. If your kids get a lice infestation, you can use it as a natural alternative to some of the nasty chemical options.
Reason #4: It boosts energy (and helps you feel full)
MCTs boost energy levels and metabolism whilst raising good cholesterol. They also help with satiety when taken prior to meals or snacks whilst increasing energy and endurance in sport, making coconut oil a useful component to any weight management campaign. It helps your body absorb vital vitamins and minerals whilst soothing the gut at the same time.
Reason #5: It fights infections
Coconut oil treats internal yeast infections and can treat skin conditions that are itchy, warm and inflamed. The oil can also help reduce stretch marks and actually makes a great massage oil or cleanser for skin. Warts, moles, age spots, cold sores and dandruff can be treated with it also.
Reason #6: Coconut oil helps to lock in moisture
This makes the oil an effective treatment for dry, damaged or coloured hair. You can decrease dark circles and eye puffiness by using a few drops of coconut oil under the eye daily— it’s a terrific skin moisturiser and can be used on hands and feet in winter to help reduce dryness. Some say that it can even help to reduce wrinkles.
Reason #7: Coconut oil can be used to cook
The oil is heat stable, making it the perfect to use in a stir fry, curry or to sauté vegetables. It makes a nutritious salad dressing and can be added to your green smoothies or morning superfood bowls.
Read more by Rick Hay here
Rick Hay is an Anti Ageing and Fitness Nutritionist with many years clinical experience in nutrition, naturopathy, botanical medicine and iridology. He specializes in obesity treatment and weight management. He writes a regular Natural Health and Fitness Blog for Healthista.
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