Coconut Oil – the healthiest oil on earth!

Samantha Ray

Once believed to be unhealthy because of its high saturated fat content, extra virgin coconut oil is now being described as “the healthiest oil on earth.” Pacific Islanders consider extra virgin coconut oil to be the cure for all illness. The coconut palm is so highly valued by them as both a source of food and medicine that it is called “The Tree of Life.” Only recently has modern medical science unlocked the secrets to extra virgin coconut oil’s amazing healing powers.

The primary reason that coconut oil is so special and beneficial is in the size of the fat molecule. All fats and oils are composed of molecules called fatty acids. There are two methods of classifying fatty acids; saturation and molecular size or length of the carbon chain within each fatty acid..  Coconut oil is composed predominately of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA).  The size of the fatty acid is extremely important. Why? Because our bodies respond to and metabolize each fatty acid differently depending on its size.  The MCFA ones do not have a negative effect on cholesterol and actually help to protect against heart disease.  Due to coconut oil’s molecular size is very easy to digest and metabolize which helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and enzymes systems. Further, it increases the body metabolism by removing stress on pancreases, thereby burning out more energy and helping obese and overweight people reduce their weight.

Extra virgin coconut oil’s MFCA makes it the most stable oil to cook with.  This means it won’t easily turn to trans fatty acids when heated.  Dr. Nalini Chilkov, M.D. who’s primary practice is serving patients with cancer and complex chronic illnesses, describes coconut oil as a “functional food that provides nutrients and functions in health promotion and disease prevention.”

Research shows that additional health benefits of coconut oil include stress relief, increased immunity, relief from kidney problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV and cancer, dental care, hair care, skin care, and bone strength.  These benefits of coconut oil can be attributed to the presence of lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid which properties include antimicrobial, antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-fungal.  So while coconut oil may not technically be an omega 3 fat its health benefits are far reaching. Be sure you are purchasing EXTRA VIRGIN coconut oil, and not a refined variety!

Sheri’s Note: Try using extra virgin coconut oil externally instead of lotion!  I love coconut oil for moisturizing, and there is only one ingredient.