It’s the next big social media dilemma – to use or not to use coconut oil! Rather, to consume or not to consume would be more accurate. Unfortunately, we are in no place to tell you to eat or not to eat it BUT we still recommend using it topically. Check out some of our favorite ways to use it and consume it (reader’s discretion is advised).
Hair moisturizer: Coconut oil is very nourishing due to its high fat content. It is one of a few oils that can penetrate the hair shaft and sink into your scalp immediately after application. Coconut oil is the beauty secret of South East Asian women. They oil their hair prior to washing to minimize protein leaving their hair. The best way to ensure deep penetration, apply oil to hair when heated or cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic bag and cover with a warm towel.
Skin Nourisher: Coconut oi is a natural antioxidant and works well in stopping skin irritation and in preventing wrinkles. It is great for the men in your life who might have thick calluses on their hands/feet. It works well in giving the skin a tight and elastic look. Bring on the youth potion my friends.
Great source of fat and aids in digestion: Now I know people are saying that the consumption of coconut oil is a no go anymore. BUT, consuming 1 TBSP of it each day can support healthy digestion. It has antimicrobial properties that fight irritation and infection. Also, coconut oil is made up of more than 50% of healthy fats. It comes in second place for being rich in lauric acid, breastmilk is the richest. Now there are articles out there that praise lauric acid for its fat loss benefits. Please do your research!
Great for cooking: Coconut oil has a higher melting point than most fats as it is a solid at room temperature, compared to olive oil and vegetable oil. This means that it doesn’t become rancid as easily and maintains its amazing nutritional properties. You will see its high smoke point referenced as well which makes it great for making healthy stir-frys. Prefer dairy free? You can use it to replace butter in baking recipes. Be mindful that the taste will be different and the composition of your baked good may vary slightly. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you reach your desired product.
Disease prevention: As always, do your own research, but coconut oil has been found to have cancer and arthritis fighting qualities. Coconut oil produces ketones when digested and cancer cells are unable to leverage ketones as a source of energy, per Dr. Josh Axe of DrAxe.com. He also has noted that the high levels of antioxidants found in virgin coconut oil lowers inflammation levels and has a better ability to heal arthritis than most medications out there.
I can’t stress enough how important it is to do your own homework when it comes to all of these fads showing up in the news and in social media. A few years from now I am sure someone will dispel this new myth that we shouldn’t be eating coconut oil. I suggest you do what you find working for you.
Do you use coconut oil?
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