Add Coconut Oil to Your Pantry

Coconut related products are gaining popularity and can be found in many aisles in the grocery store. Coconut water is popular to re-hydrate after physical exertion. Whole coconuts, coconut oil, coconut butter, coconut milk, coconut "flesh", and shredded coconut are just a few of the products available in stores. I have been enjoying adding coconut oil and coconut butter to recipes.

Coconut Oil

Why Cook With Coconut Oil?

• Coconut oil is solid at room temperature and is substituted for butter in many vegan recipes. Coconut oil is free from TRANS FATS, gluten, cholesterol, and animal products. It is easy to digest, gives you fast energy, and it is not stored as fat.
• Coconut oil is known to be 90% saturated fat. We have been told to stay away from saturated fats as they are known to raise "bad" cholesterol, the LDL.  Studies have shown that although coconut oil is HIGH in saturated fat it gives "good" cholesterol, the HDL a nudge. 
• Coconut oil is good for cooking as it has a high smoke point and a long shelf life (no need to refrigerate after opening). 

Your Body will Benefit from Coconut Oil

• Coconut oil is known to be good for you skin as it has antimicrobial and antiviral activities.
• Coconut oil is known to be good for your brain as it supports memory.
• Coconut oil is good for your heart, eyes, and joints. 
• Coconut oil contains 14 grams of healthy fats
• Coconut oil contains 6,200 mg of lauric acid to support a healthy metabolism
• Coconut oil contains 550 mg of capric acid to support healthy inflammation response 
• Coconut oil can be used as a leave in conditioner for your hair
• Coconut oil applied to the nail bed can work to prevent nail breakage

For more information, read the full article at Delicious Living.
For more information, read the full article Ask The Doctor: Coconut oil and health from Harvard Medical School.