Benefits of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is having its day in the sun. No longer hard to find, or relegated to specialty stores, coconut oil can be found at most grocery stores, and its nutritional and beauty benefits are increasingly well known.
From boosting energy, to preventing memory loss, and even adding a little glow to your everyday routine, we’ve got the top ten reasons you should try of coconut oil today. And be sure to check out our WW Hacks video below, for five easy ways to incorporate coconut oil into your life!
1 . Get an Energy Boost
Although made predominantly of saturated fats, coconut oil is made up of more than two-thirds medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) – which are different from other saturated fats. Once ingested, MCFAs are immediately taken to your liver, where they are converted to energy – instead of being stored as fat in your cells, like other saturated fats.
2. Goodbye Sugar Cravings
Because of the rapid release of energy from coconut oil and its MCFAs, coconut oil can help to combat energy dips which can lead to those oh-so-familiar sugar cravings.
3. Reduces Inflammation and Arthritis
A 2014 study showed that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents in virgin coconut oil reduced inflammation and lead towards healing arthritis more effectively than traditional medications.
4. It Keeps You Sharp
Studies have shown that the MCFAs found in coconut oil can improve memory and brain function in older patients.
5. It’s Good for Your Tummy
The anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil have been shown to ease discomfort and promote digestion for those with digestive issues.
6. It’s antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral
Lauric acid, the most prominent MCFA found in coconut oil, works as an antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral compound.
7. Get Glowing Skin
Coconut oil can help contribute to glowing skin. It’s easily absorbed and its antibacterial compounds along with presence of vitamin E can reduce the signs of fatigue and aging.
8. It Promotes Luxurious Locks
In addition to being a great skin treatment – the nourishing effects of coconut oil can be seen in hair care as well. Regular treatments with coconut oil can help to reduce breakage, prevent dandruff, and increase luster.
9. It Can Keep Your Teeth Clean
Using coconut oil as a supplementary therapy in addition to regular dental care is a common practice that has its roots in Ayurvedic medicine, dating back 3,000 years, known as oil pulling. Swishing coconut oil in your mouth will help to collect microbes and bacteria that can hide between teeth and gums that can be missed by regular brushing. Dentists advise that oil pulling is not a replacement to your regular oral hygiene routine – but a supplementary therapy that can contribute to overall oral health.
10. Get Cooking
Coconut oil is a great alternative to butter in cooking and lends a distinctive nutty flavour, perfect for stir-fry’s and soups. It’s also a great alternative oil to use in pan frying.