Coconut Oil

Nutrition:

Coconut oil contains many nutrients that contribute to good health, it is full of fatty acids that they body needs and may improve cognitive function, metabolism and hair and skin health. Not only is it a great healthy option to cook with, it is also used in a variety of products from shampoo to deodorant due to its pleasant smell and adaptable properties.

Health Benefits:

Rich in healthy fats

Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are shorter than fatty acid chains found in most foods. Due to their shorter length, these fatty acids are more easily digested than other longer-chains found in many other foods meaning that they could be a good source of energy.

Promote weight loss

MCT in coconut oil has been shown to increase the release of peptide YY and leptin, which are two hormones that can promote the feeling of fullness which in turn can lead to consuming less food. One study found that taking 2 tablespoons of coconut MCT oil at breakfast resulted in eating less food for lunch, which could be because of a lower rise in triglycerides and glucose.

Good source of energy

Due to their shorter length, MCTs are absorbed more rapidly by the body than long-chain triglycerides and do not require bile to break down. Fats are either used as fuel or stored as fat in the liver, and since MCTs can easily enter the cells without being broken down they can be used immediately as a source of energy.