If a person wants to be healthy, he must not only eliminate unhealthy foods from his diet, but also enrich his diet with the help of so-called superfoods. Coconut oil is rightfully considered one of the most balanced food components for food. This is what we will talk about today.
Unique combination of fatty acids
By consuming the required amount of fruits and vegetables, meat and milk, herbs and seafood every day, a person nevertheless cannot do without fats. Fatty acids have a tremendous impact on human health. Scientists have proven that the combination of vegetable saturated fats in coconut oil has a positive effect on the processes occurring in the body. The same cannot be said for saturated animal fats.
Having received the first confirmation of their assumptions, scientists began to study natural coconut oil in depth and identified a number of striking points. It turns out that people who eat this product are least susceptible to various diseases. In other words, they can be considered the healthiest people on the planet.
What diseases can be forgotten?
Naturally, in the conditions of central Russia you can surprise the mass consumer. Here people are still just getting acquainted with this product, so they studied, first of all, African tribes where coconut oil is absorbed daily. In some tribes, coconuts and their derivatives are almost the only available type of food and saturate the body of the aborigines with more than 60% of the daily diet. In such tribes, people do not know about the problems of the heart and blood vessels. From this we can conclude that coconut oil for food does not have a negative effect on the general condition of a person, even if consumed in large quantities.
The saturated fats contained in coconut oil are metabolized in the body, passing from the stomach straight to the liver. And already in the liver, these substances form ketone bodies, which have a positive effect on the nervous system, in particular on the brain.
Coconut oil for food: positive effect on obesity
Yes, yes, paradoxically, it is the “right” fat that can contribute to weight loss. After all, nutritionists have long proven that it is not the number of calories that is important, but the source of them. Thus, triglycerides contained in coconut oil, during metabolism, significantly increase energy expenditure, which consequently leads to weight loss. If you take a comprehensive approach to solving the problem, then it is quite possible to achieve good results in burning extra pounds.
Dulls the feeling of hunger
How many of us dream of not experiencing an acute feeling of hunger, especially when we try to limit ourselves in food. Now all those suffering have a panacea. It turns out that coconut can easily dull the feeling of hunger, and, in addition, stock up on such important energy. Scientists have proven that they reduce appetite by conducting an interesting experiment in which men participated. Insignificant consumption of the product in the morning led to the fact that, compared to the usual diet, each man on average absorbed 250 fewer calories per day.
What is the function of lauric acid?
We are introducing you to an amazing and unique product called coconut oil. We’ll tell you how to use the product a little later, but for now, using the example of some fatty acids, we’ll look at all its positive properties. It accounts for more than half of the total composition of the product. When the substance is broken down by enzymes during metabolism, the acid is converted into monolaurin, which can effectively resist various viral bacteria and fungi. Thus, edible oils can prevent the occurrence of infectious diseases of various origins and act as a prophylactic agent.
Spin technology
It is not the coconut pulp that is used for pressing, but the copra - the layer between the pulp and the shell. At the initial stage, the nut is peeled, the copra is separated from the pulp, dried and crushed. The ground coconut copra is then pressed in two ways:
- hot pressing method;
- gentle cold pressing.
When cold pressed, the output is much less of the finished product, however, the oil retains the most valuable substances contained in the coconut. That is why coconut oil produced using cold-pressing technology is much more expensive than its counterpart extracted using the traditional, hot method. Interestingly, with hot pressing, 1 kg of copra yields an average of 300 ml of the finished product.
Types of Coconut Oil
Like all vegetable oils produced on the planet, the copra extraction product is divided into refined coconut oil and unrefined (unrefined). To refine the oil, purification is carried out using high pressure. Purified, refined oil is transparent in appearance and lacks a pleasant tart tropical aroma. But unrefined oil has a characteristic odor and a milky white or yellowish tint. Interestingly, at temperatures below 25 degrees, coconut oil can harden and turn into a kind of granular mass.
How to store the product?
Once you buy coconut oil for food, you don’t have to worry about how to store it. This product practically does not spoil. The high content of saturated acids almost completely prevents the oxidation process.
Areas of use
- In cosmetology for enriching creams, masks, balms, lotions and other cosmetics.
- In the production of margarines.
- As a component of suppositories and medicinal ointments.
- In the confectionery industry.
- As an alternative fuel in some countries.
Use in cooking
Coconut edible oils in Asian cuisine are often used as a dressing for fresh vegetable salads - this is the main use of the product. However, cooks in Southeast Asia revere the presented oil so much that they are ready to flavor everything in the world with it: from meat and seafood, to traditional rice and spicy vegetables.
Don’t be afraid to fry in coconut oil, because, as we remember, its composition practically does not oxidize, which means that everything valuable will be preserved even during heat treatment. Ideally, despite the high price, you can avoid our traditional vegetable oils, which contain high cholesterol levels, to maintain your health. By replacing sunflower or olive oil with coconut oil, we get absolutely harmless fried food.
Cooks prepare cottage cheese casserole, cheesecakes, sweet desserts, pancakes with fruit fillings, adding coconut oil to the dish. Cooks' recipes also recommend using the presented product as an addition to porridges, milk soups, various cocktails, for baby food, and also as an additive to cocoa and coffee. Coconut oil can be used to replace the usual option for freshly prepared toast.
For disease prevention
To strengthen the immune system and increase the body's resistance to various viral infections, start taking coconut oil one teaspoon in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening before bed. Gradually the single dose is increased to two tablespoons.
Coconut muffins recipe
And in conclusion, we offer you a recipe for a delicious dessert with coconut oil and vanilla extract. To prepare the dish you will need the following ingredients:
- flour - 0.5 cups;
- coconut flakes - 3/4 cup;
- Greek yogurt (warm) - 250 g;
- sugar - a third of a glass;
- coconut oil - 120 g;
- fresh chicken egg - 1 piece;
- vanilla sugar - 1 teaspoon;
- salt - 1/4 teaspoon;
- baking powder - 1 tablespoon.
Take a saucepan, melt the coconut oil and heat it slightly. In one bowl, mix flour, half a portion of coconut flakes, salt and baking powder, and in another bowl, beat egg, sugar, heated coconut and Greek yogurt. Then combine both mixtures. Place the dough into muffin tins, after lightly sprinkling them with oil. Decorate the top with coconut shavings and place in an oven preheated to 180 degrees for 20 minutes.
Enjoy your tea!
Health
Coconut oil is quickly gaining popularity due to its many uses and benefits. It is used in a variety of applications, ranging from cooking to skin and hair care.
Coconut oil has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. There are several types of coconut oil:
Refined- This type of oil does not smell or taste like coconut oil. The refining process removes some of the nutrients from it, and while it is also healthy, it may not be as effective as unrefined oil.
Unrefined– also called “extra class”. This type of oil does not go through a refining process and retains its taste and smell. When cooked or applied to the skin, it produces a light coconut aroma. Also, this oil retains most of the nutrients.
Properties of coconut oil
One tablespoon of coconut oil contains 117 calories and also:
· 0 grams of protein,
· 0 grams carbohydrates
· 13.6 grams fat (11.8 saturated, 0.8 unsaturated and 0.2 polyunsaturated).
Coconut oil is almost entirely fat. However, the structure of this fat is different from other saturated fats found mainly in animal products.
Coconut oil contains large amounts medium chain fatty acids, which are more difficult to convert into fat reserves and are more easily burned than long-chain fatty acids.
Medium chain fatty acids:
· Easier to digest
· Not stored as fat reserves
·Have antimicrobial and antifungal properties
· Are a source of energy
Benefits of coconut oil
Here are some benefits of coconut oil:
Strengthens immunity
Lauric, capric and caprylic acids in coconut oil kill harmful bacteria and viruses, as well as fungi, preventing infection.
Reduces appetite
This has to do with how fatty acids are converted. In moderation, coconut oil has a positive effect on weight and body composition.
Prevents Alzheimer's disease
Research has shown that coconut oil prevents Alzheimer's disease by providing an energy source that supports brain function and improves memory.
Reduces cholesterol levels
Coconut oil increases good cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of heart disease.
Improves digestion
Coconut oil improves digestion by helping the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins, calcium and magnesium. It also helps get rid of harmful bacteria and fungi that can cause inflammation and poor digestion.
Hair and skin health
The fatty acids in coconut oil soften hair, reduce dry skin, and help get rid of fungal infections that cause dandruff.
Uses of coconut oil for hair
Coconut oil improves hair health, fights fungus that causes dandruff, promotes hair growth, adding shine and healthy appearance to hair.
Many beauty products contain coconut oil, and it is superior to mineral or sunflower oil in reducing the loss of proteins that lead to dry, brittle hair.
Lauric acid in coconut oil has a low molecular weight and better penetrates the hair shaft, nourishing the hair with vitamins, minerals and medium chain fatty acids.
Coconut oil also prevents hair damage when combing and can be used as a conditioner.
Hair conditioner
Use 1/4 (for short hair) or 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil, warmed in your hands, as a hair conditioner. Distribute through hair and style as usual.
For intensive hair restoration, apply 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil, depending on the length of your hair, to the roots of your hair and rub into the scalp. Cover with a cap and leave for 1-2 hours or overnight. Rinse with a mild shampoo and style as usual.
For dry and damaged hair, adding a few drops of sandalwood oil or geranium oil will help retain moisture.
Hair growth mask
Coconut oil can promote hair growth, making it thicker and longer. Hair health largely depends on the internal state, and therefore it is important to include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, pumpkin seeds, chia, flax seeds, and green tea in your diet.
For hair growth, gently massage coconut oil into your scalp for 10 minutes 3-4 times a week. You will need about 1 teaspoon of oil. You can also add 4 drops rosemary oil, which improves circulation in the scalp.
After you have massaged your head for 10 minutes, put on the cap and leave on for 40 minutes or more. Rinse with shampoo
Anti-dandruff remedy
Dandruff can be caused by dry skin, sensitivity to harsh chemicals in shampoos and other products, and a fungal infection.
Lauric and capric acid in coconut oil have antifungal and other beneficial properties.
Use ethereal lavender, thyme and tea tree oils to fight dandruff. To treat dandruff, mix 2 teaspoons of coconut oil with 5 drops of one of the essential oils or oil blends and massage into the scalp. Cover with a cap and leave for 20-30 minutes. After this, wash off with a mild shampoo. For a deeper effect, you can leave the mixture overnight. Repeat the procedure 2-3 times a week.
Laying
Hair dryers, flat irons, curling irons and other styling products strip hair of moisture, making hair brittle and prone to tangling.
Coconut oil prevents heat damage and helps smooth hair.
Apply 1/4 – 1 teaspoon of coconut oil depending on the length of your hair, distribute over the entire length, dry and style your hair as desired. Your hair will be soft, shiny and supple.
If you have split ends, use a few drops of coconut oil to massage into your ends.
You can also use coconut oil for sun protection as it is natural sunscreen which is suitable for both adults and children.
If your hair is tangled, apply a little coconut oil to the tangled area and comb it out.
When styling, use a little coconut oil and do not apply to the scalp as it can weigh down the hair.
Remedy for head lice
There is also evidence that coconut oil helps get rid of head lice. Since coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft, it prevents lice eggs from attaching to the hair.
Apply a mixture of 3 tablespoons coconut oil and 1 teaspoon anise, ylang-ylang and tea tree oils along the entire length of the hair and distribute with a fine-toothed comb. Cover with a cap and leave for at least 2 hours. Remove the cap and comb your hair again. While your hair is still damp, apply a mixture of two cups of apple cider vinegar and 1 cup of water to your hair using a spray bottle. Comb again and rinse with shampoo.
This procedure must be repeated every 5-10 days for several weeks to get rid of lice. However, this method may not be as effective against nits, which must be pulled out manually.
Coconut oil for face and body
Eye cream and moisturizer
Lightly massage coconut oil under your eyes and onto your face as a nighttime moisturizer. Using coconut oil on the eyelids and under the eyes helps prevent wrinkles, puffiness and bags under the eyes.
Body lotion
Apply coconut oil all over your body instead of regular body lotion to soften your skin. Store-bought lotions are usually petroleum or water based, while the natural ingredients in coconut oil moisturize the skin more effectively.
Cuticle cream
Cracked cuticles and hangnails are not only unsightly, but can also cause discomfort. Rub coconut oil into cuticles twice daily as a treatment.
Bath oil
Instead of bubble bath, add coconut oil. Hot water will melt the oil into a liquid so you can get the maximum benefits.
Moisturizer
To keep your skin soft, use coconut oil instead of cream. It fights redness and irritation, reduces acne and moisturizes the skin. Fatty acids restore the skin's lipid barrier, retaining moisture.
Shaving cream
Instead of shaving cream, try using coconut oil. Wet the area, apply coconut oil and shave off any unwanted hair. Coconut oil helps the razor glide smoothly and moisturizes your skin in the process.
Massage Oil
Coconut oil can also be used for massage, and its pleasant scent will transport you to sunny days on a tropical beach.
Dry skin
If you have dry patches on your elbows, feet, or other areas, rub coconut oil in to heal the flaky areas. To prevent nosebleeds and relieve congestion, rub coconut oil inside your nose.
Body Scrub
Mix sugar or salt with coconut oil to remove dead skin without stripping it of its moisture.
Highlighter
Rub a little coconut oil onto your cheekbones for a natural, refreshing glow.
Makeup remover
Switch your makeup remover to coconut oil. The oil easily removes makeup residue. Remove excess oil with napkins or cotton pads so that they do not irritate your eyes.
Makeup brush cleaner
Make a mixture of antibacterial soap and coconut oil to thoroughly clean any residue from your brushes and restore the bristles.
Lip hygiene product
Coconut oil is great as a lip balm and also a remedy for chapped lips.
Scratch care
Rub a thin layer of coconut oil onto minor scratches and bruises. The oil soothes the skin and creates a barrier against dirt and bacteria.
Coconut oil masks
Coconut oil face masks
Apply these masks for 15-20 minutes on clean skin and then wash off.
Recipe 1.
· 2 teaspoons honey
· 1/2 teaspoon lemon
This mask will help cleanse your skin and make it soft and glowing.
Recipe 2.
· 1 tablespoon coconut oil
· 1/2 ripe banana
· A pinch of turmeric
This mask fights acne and moisturizes the skin.
Recipe 3.
· 1 tablespoon coconut oil
· 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
· 1/4 ripe avocado
This is a moisturizing, nourishing and cleansing mask.
Coconut oil hair masks
Rosemary + avocado + coconut oil
Avocado and coconut oils will moisturize your hair, while a few drops of rosemary essential oil will add shine.
Coconut oil + honey
Melt honey and coconut oil and mix in equal parts. Apply to dry hair, split ends and scalp. Massage with your fingers and leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing.
Coconut oil + egg
You can add an egg to your honey mask to nourish your hair.
Coconut oil + honey + banana
If you have an itchy scalp, use a mask of coconut oil, honey and banana once a week to maintain healthy hair and fight hair loss.
Coconut oil + vitamin E
To smooth your hair, mix these ingredients, preheat the oil to help it penetrate your hair, and leave for 40 minutes before rinsing.
Coconut oil + argan oil
This simple two-ingredient recipe will leave your hair soft and silky. Rub the mixture into the scalp and distribute over the entire length.
Using coconut oil for food
Add flavor to coffee or tea
Next time you drink your favorite morning drink, add coconut oil instead of sugar. You can also add honey, a pinch of cinnamon and milk. The coconut oil will emulsify in the drink and add a nice coconut flavor.
Cooking
Coconut oil is a healthier alternative to other oils. This oil has a high smoke threshold, meaning it will not produce harmful free radicals as quickly as other oils. This is why it is best to fry and cook in coconut oil. It is easier to digest, quickly absorbed by the liver and burned as fuel for the body.
Not long ago, coconut oil gained particular popularity among cosmetologists. However, after some time it turned out that such a product can be used for cooking. Coconut oil is rarely used for food in our country. However, the product has unique properties. It allows you not only to enrich food with useful components, but also to lose weight. How is coconut oil used for food? The benefits and harms of this product have long been studied. In addition, it can be combined with many products.
Application of oil
Coconut oil was initially practically not used for food. It was considered exclusively a cosmetic product. This component is included in many branded care products not only for hair, but also for the face and body. At home, coconut oil was often used to prepare masks and creams.
After some time, scientists proved that such a component is ideal for cooking. After all, it contains a lot of useful components for the human body that can make nutrition more saturated. With the help of coconut oil, you can not only improve your health, but also lose weight.
A little history
Coconut oil is a vegetable fat that has been used for centuries in the Philippines, Thailand, India and other Asian countries to prepare a variety of dishes. Gradually its popularity is increasing. In the middle of the last century it began to be used in the USA. However, after some time, a suspicion arose that it was better not to use coconut oil for food, since due to the high fat content, this component is harmful to health. But this opinion was wrong.
Oil composition
Edible coconut oil is made from the hardened pulp of mature coconuts. The product is obtained by hot pressing and cold pressing. The latter method of oil production is considered the most gentle. It is worth noting that the product consists of approximately 99% fats, including:
- saturated fatty acids: palmitic, stearic, caprylic, capric, lauric, caproic, butyric and so on;
- monounsaturated: nervonic, oleic, palmitoleic and so on;
- polyunsaturated acids: omega-6 and omega-3;
- the remaining 1% is water.
If you use coconut oil for food (there are both negative and positive reviews about it), then it should be said that it has a fairly high energy value: 900 kcal per 100 grams of product. This indicator is slightly higher than that of sunflower and olive oils.
Beneficial features
Many nutritionists consider edible coconut oil to be harmful due to its high calorie content, while some, on the contrary, consider it beneficial. In their opinion, this is the most useful product of plant origin. Among its properties are the following:
- Coconut oil does not lose its beneficial qualities when heated. This product is recommended for use when frying. After all, during such heat treatment, carcinogenic substances are not released.
- Coconut oil has antibacterial and enveloping properties. Thanks to this, the product eliminates some digestive problems, while promoting the absorption of nutrients that enter the body with food.
- Coconut oil also has a positive effect on the condition of the liver, while improving its self-cleaning functions and stimulating the production of bile.
- The fats that make up the oil have a generally positive effect on the condition of the entire body. Despite many opinions, the product does not cause an increase in cholesterol levels, but, on the contrary, removes it. If you use coconut oil for food, you can avoid the development of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension.
- Thanks to this product, human bone tissue becomes stronger. This is explained by the fact that many fats contribute to better absorption of magnesium, calcium and other microelements.
- Regular consumption of coconut oil helps normalize the functioning of the endocrine system. Therefore, it is often recommended for those who suffer from diabetes.
It is worth noting that coconut oil is a hypoallergenic product. Individual intolerance is extremely rare.
Is coconut oil harmful?
Expert reviews show that coconut oil can be harmful in some cases. If a person is allergic to the nuts themselves or has an individual intolerance, then they should stop using the oil forever. It is not recommended to abuse the product. It is enough to consume no more than 2 teaspoons of coconut oil per day. After all, such a product is saturated with all kinds of fats and is high in calories. Excessive consumption of coconut oil can cause such unpleasant phenomena as disruption of the digestive system, as well as obesity.
What coconut oil is used in cooking?
Unrefined and refined coconut oil is used for food. Moreover, each variety has its own characteristics. Unrefined has a pleasant aroma. Therefore, it can be used for preparing dessert dishes, such as cheesecakes, pancakes, and so on. It is safe to fry food in oil, since it does not lose its properties when heated sufficiently high. In addition, during such heat treatment no carcinogenic substances are formed.
Refined coconut oil has virtually no characteristic aroma. It is usually used for frying a variety of dishes: meat, vegetables, confectionery. In addition, refined coconut oil can be added to salads, soups, cereals, pasta, spread on bread, used to make fillings for cakes, waffles, cookies, and so on. But this is not all the areas of its application. The oil can also be added to tea, cocoa, and coffee. In industrial enterprises, this component is used for the production of spreads and margarines. Such products cause less harm to the body than other vegetable oils.
What should coconut oil be like?
How to choose coconut oil for food? First, it’s worth understanding what a quality product looks like. It is worth noting that in many, even large shopping centers in Eastern Europe, it is very difficult to find coconut oil. It is usually sold frozen. Naturally, such a product is packaged in briquettes.
The color of coconut oil fully matches the shade of the flesh of this nut. In this case, the product may be yellowish, white or slightly creamy. A high quality product has a uniform color. It is worth noting that even when frozen, coconut oil exudes a pleasant, slightly sweet aroma. This product melts at temperatures up to 25 °C. However, such oil can be stored not only in the refrigerator, but even at room temperature.
Uses of coconut oil
In everyday life, coconut oil can replace any vegetable and animal fat, including butter, olive and sunflower oils. The following product is used:
- when preparing porridges, vegetable purees, potatoes, pasta;
- as a substitute for margarine in baking;
- for frying in a frying pan and in a deep fryer, baking and stewing;
- for dressing salads of fruits and various vegetables in melted form.
It is worth noting that coconut oil in combination with hot chocolate or warm milk is a good and tasty remedy for colds.
Is it possible to cook it yourself?
Now you know what coconut oil is for. For food you can prepare this product yourself:
- There are 4 marks on the nut, in the place where the fruit was attached to the palm tree. You need to make two holes along them and then drain the milk. You will not need any oil during the cooking process.
- You need to remove the shell from the fruit, and then carefully cut off the pulp. The core must be crushed in a food processor or grated.
- It is recommended to fill the resulting mass with water, preferably hot. When everything has cooled down, you need to put the container in the refrigerator.
- A fatty crust about 0.5 centimeters thick should form on the water. It should be collected, melted, but not boiled.
- As a result, a liquid should form. It should be strained, poured into a glass container and placed in a cool place. It is not recommended to store such a product for more than a week, as it can cause harm to the body.
It is worth noting that one coconut produces approximately 50 milligrams of oil. From the water that remains after cooking the product, you can make ice cubes. They are recommended to be used for cosmetic purposes only. The shavings can be added to homemade scrubs or used to decorate finished baked goods.
The benefits of vegetable oils have been valued for hundreds of years. Since ancient times, they have been used for cooking, in cosmetology and in everyday life. Coconut oil is known for its healing properties and can rightfully be called a universal product.
Coconut oil is used in food production and for the manufacture of medicines. It is included in leather care products, soaps and furniture polishes. The lauric, capric and caprylic acids contained in the oil give it an antibacterial, antioxidant and soothing effect.
Depending on the technical manufacturing process, there are several types of coconut oil.
- Refined coconut oil:
- obtained by directly squeezing coconut pulp (copra);
- extracted from dry copra using hot pressing;
- Bleaching clay is used to clean the raw materials, and the addition of sodium hydroxide increases the shelf life of the product;
- Hydrogenated coconut oil contains trans fats created by the addition of chemical solvents and hydration during the production process;
- Coconut oil in liquid form is a new variety for use in food and personal care.
- Unrefined coconut oil:
- can be obtained by quickly drying fresh pulp and cold pressing using gentle technology;
- fine grinding: coconut milk is extracted from the pulp of the nut, then it is boiled with the addition of enzymes;
- the short production process guarantees the preservation of beneficial properties and natural qualities without the use of chemical additives.
- Coconut butter is a coconut puree with a high fat content. The chemically untreated product is useful for humans; most often, the paste is used to prepare culinary masterpieces.
Composition and benefits of the product
Coconut oil is enriched with fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins, which makes it easily digestible and healing for humans. High thermal stability and the ability to undergo slow oxidative reactions allow the product to be used for heat treatment of dishes.
Coconut oil contains the following substances.
- Saturated fatty acids make up 89% of the total composition. Capric, caprylic, myristic, palmitic, lauric acids, with the latter accounting for almost half of the total percentage.
- Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid.
- Oleic is a monounsaturated fatty acid.
- Polyphenols are responsible for the taste of the oil.
- Derivatives of esters and fatty alcohols.
- Vitamin E, K, iron in small quantities.
The benefits of coconut oil are undeniable, despite the recommendations of nutritionists to try to avoid eating fatty products in large quantities.
What effect does the oil have on humans? The effects are:
- cleansing the body of cholesterol plaques;
- strengthens the walls of blood vessels, making them more elastic;
- has a rejuvenating and antioxidant effect;
- improves blood circulation in the brain;
- used to treat patients with epilepsy;
- improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and liver;
- Lauric acid, which is part of the oil, increases the body’s immune strength;
- promotes calcium absorption, strengthening bones and teeth;
- in case of renal stone pathology, crushes kidney stones;
- Helps maintain normal sugar levels.
Applications of coconut oil
Coconut oil has become widespread in Russia since the beginning of the last century. Cosmetology and soap making were the first industries to use oil, but later it was added to food preparation.
Coconut oil exhibits healing, cosmetic and culinary properties. How to use this product with maximum health benefits?
One of the areas of active use of coconut products is the food industry. Coconut oil is used not only for making sweet dessert dishes, but also in the production of infant formula, salted popcorn, and also for cooking over fire.
It is advisable to fry food in unrefined oil, without bringing it to a boil. Hot oil begins to release carcinogens due to oxidative reactions that occur during high heat. If you follow the rules, fried food will not harm your health.
Coconut oil has excellent antioxidant properties, which helps the human body stay young and full of energy. The therapeutic effect on the human body is preserved if the oil is used in forms in the production of which a quick method of obtaining a fatty plant product is chosen, which does not involve the use of chemical components.
Unrefined oil reduces dangerous cholesterol levels and improves fat metabolism, which helps maintain normal weight. The healing effect on the stomach and intestines makes the oil a valuable ingredient when used correctly.
Weight loss
It is possible to lose weight with coconut fat. The basic rule that must be followed is to use oil obtained through gentle processing in food and not to get carried away with the delicacy.
Lauric acid has a special effect on accelerating metabolic reactions and overall strengthening of the body. Due to the peculiarities of its chemical formula, this saturated fat accelerates metabolic processes, promoting the breakdown of subcutaneous fat.
In addition, while simultaneously supporting the health of the heart and blood vessels, stomach and liver, a diet with coconut oil does not harm humans. If you want to lose weight, nutritionists advise eating 1 tablespoon of oil for breakfast. Another option is to consume the same amount on an empty stomach half an hour before your first meal.
For hair
Coconut oil is a beneficial hair product that makes it shiny, manageable and healthy. What causes the healing effect on hair? Experts believe that:
- Directly pressed product strengthens hair roots, preventing hair loss;
- Coconut fatty acids stimulate hair growth;
- Coconut oil perfectly retains water inside the hair, making it strong and manageable;
- oil restores damaged hair structure;
- Thanks to its antifungal properties, the oil will get rid of dandruff with a gentle effect.
How to use coconut oil in hair care correctly and with maximum benefit? To set up a real beauty salon at home, you need to stock up on unrefined oil.
Hairdressers use 2 methods of treating hair: oiling and strengthening masks.
To oil the hair, take a small amount of oil and distribute it evenly along the entire length of the curls. After maintaining sufficient exposure, the oil is washed off with regular shampoo.
A hair mask is used to moisturize, restore, and nourish the hair shaft and follicle. The mask mixture can be prepared by mixing 5 grams of coconut oil with honey, berries, and essential oils. The prepared paste is applied to the hair and scalp for 15 minutes, 1 hour before washing your hair.
For face
Delicate facial skin needs careful care at any age. Coconut oil is a herbal product used in cosmetology since time immemorial. This universal, safe drug can be used by both young girls and adult women.
The benefits of saturated fatty acids in coconut pulp are:
- lauric and caprylic acid act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, preventing the appearance of unwanted acne;
- has a powerful moisturizing effect on skin cells;
- the oily base can be used for gentle cleansing of cosmetics;
- antioxidant properties provide a rejuvenating effect;
- facial skin is nourished.
Healing oil is added to homemade face creams, which are applied to the skin along massage lines. Using unrefined oil in its pure form will be no less effective. A small amount can be evenly distributed on cleansed facial skin.
The only undesirable factor in which you should not experiment with the use of oil is the tendency for increased oily skin.
Coconut oil is included in body skin care products. Soap, cream, milk, and shower gel containing coconut fat are especially popular among women. You need to choose everyday products with coconut:
- for dry skin prone to flaking;
- for redness associated with inflammatory reactions;
- to combat cellulite;
- to prevent skin stretch marks.
Coconut oil is a skin cell moisturizer that combines antibacterial, soothing and rejuvenating properties. Using this product at home allows you to achieve excellent results in maintaining moisture and in the fight against wrinkles.
In addition to ready-made products, coconut oil can be used in its pure form. Oily acids will help not only in the fight for the beauty of the skin, but also neutralize sunburn and the aggressive effects of cosmetics, deodorize and soften the skin of the feet. The product can be used for shaving and as part of body scrubs.
Contraindications
Despite the undeniable benefits of coconut oil, it has a number of contraindications.
- Individual intolerance to oily liquids. Use may lead to severe allergic reactions.
- For problem skin prone to clogged pores, the use of oil is not recommended.
- Overweight people are allowed to eat oil in moderation.
- For women who are breastfeeding, applying oil to the nipple area is contraindicated.
How to choose a truly useful product?
To benefit from coconut oil, you need to choose the right product. The most valuable oil is unrefined oil obtained by physically pressing coconut pulp.
You can distinguish the right oil by the following signs:
- unrefined oil is sold in glass containers;
- The yellowish cloudy mass has a pleasant aroma, which becomes solid at an air temperature of 25 degrees;
- The shelf life of unrefined oil does not exceed 12 months;
- Thailand and the Philippines are the top coconut oil exporting countries in the world;
- It is better to buy oil in a store to avoid improper storage.
The benefits and harms of using coconut oil are on the same level. Many experts warn about the need to take measures to prevent a backlash. The American Heart Association has pointed out the possibility of the formation of cholesterol plaques when ingested in large quantities.
When choosing coconut fat for facial skin care, you need to make sure there is no tendency to form comedones. An excessively oily structure will close the pores and the cells will lose their respiration function. This condition is fraught with inflammatory reactions, accumulation of sebum and the occurrence of severe forms of acne.
Conclusion
No matter how great the benefits of a fatty coconut product are, following the measure will help get rid of unwanted consequences. Fatty acids, completely absorbed into the skin, provide all the nutrients to human cells.
Moisturizing combined with anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties make coconut a valuable product for external use. The healing qualities of a natural remedy allow you to improve your health as part of complex therapy. To achieve an effective result, you should not self-medicate, and before use you should always consult with a qualified doctor.
Mother of two children. I have been running a house for more than 7 years - this is my main job. I like to experiment, I constantly try different means, methods, techniques that can make our life easier, more modern, more fulfilling. I love my family.
According to modern science, coconut oil is one of the healthiest foods on the globe. The benefits are explained by the composition, which does not contain compounds that can cause harm.
Compound
91% of the oil consists of healthy saturated fatty acids. Of these, 62% are medium chain triglycerides (MCTs): caprylic, lauric and capric acids.
The absorption of these compounds occurs in only three stages. Whereas to utilize other fats, the body must perform several dozen steps.
Therefore, coconut fats are quickly and easily absorbed, provide a tremendous boost of energy and have many other healing qualities.
Help with weight loss
Coconut oil is not just a weight loss friendly product. It is one of the few products that actually help you lose weight. Moreover, it helps burn fat mainly in the abdominal area.
For example, men with large bellies have been shown to reduce their waist circumference by almost 3cm by adding 2 tablespoons of oil to their diet daily.
Do you think this is not enough? Not at all!
After all, the point is that it is “adding” this product to the diet that works. And not replacing other components of the daily menu with it. People add fat to their diet. And at the same time they lose weight in the abdominal area. No sports activities.
If you introduce coconut oil into your diet while switching to, the result will be more impressive.
How does this coconut food manage to show such achievements?
The oil of this tropical fruit is fundamentally different from other edible fats, as it contains a significant amount of medium chain triglycerides. It is the presence of these compounds that explains such amazing activity.
Medium chain triglycerides are metabolized differently than other fats. And therefore the effect on the body is completely different.
MCTs go directly to the liver, where they are immediately used for energy or converted into ketone bodies. In the form of “fat in reserve” they practically do not exist.
Calories do not equal calories. That is why their strict calculation is useless for losing weight.
Foods that have the same calorie content are metabolized in the body in different ways. Therefore, they cause a different hormonal response, which ultimately has different effects on metabolic rate, fat deposition, etc.
Coconut oil is a thermogenic food. This means that once it enters the body, it causes it to expend more energy than other foods that have exactly the same calorie content.
However, this does not mean that reducing your calorie intake is not important for weight loss. It is also important if we are talking about obvious overeating.
Coconut oil reduces the likelihood of overeating, as it fills you up noticeably better than other fatty foods, and, therefore, makes it possible to eat less and not suffer from hunger.
So, the medium chain triglycerides in coconut oil are:
- reduce appetite and thereby help reduce the number of calories consumed per day;
- “warm up” the body, thereby accelerating the burning of stored fats in it;
- quickly burn out on their own or turn into ketone bodies, which have a lot of useful properties.
And that's not all. MCTs have several other functions that are essential for healthy weight loss.
Other useful properties
Prevention of heart disease. Saturated coconut oils increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), known as “good cholesterol.” And at the same time, they help convert low-density lipoproteins into forms of fat that are safe for the body.In addition, under the influence of this product the level of total cholesterol and triglycerides decreases.
This makes it possible to improve the 2 most important biochemical indicators of blood lipid composition: the ratio of high-density lipoproteins to total cholesterol and the ratio of triglycerides to HDL.
Prevention and treatment of brain diseases. Ketone bodies, which are formed from coconut oil, are an alternative source of energy for the human brain. They are especially useful for those people who suffer from various severe brain diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease or epilepsy.It has been proven that the inclusion of medium chain triglycerides, which are so rich in coconut oil, in the diet immediately improves the condition of patients with these lesions of brain tissue.
Protection against pathogenic agents. The main medium chain triglyceride in coconut oil is lauric acid, which is converted into monolaurin in the body. Both lauric acid and monolaurin have the ability to destroy pathogens. Caprylic and capric fatty acids, which are also part of the oil, have a similar effect.Thanks to the presence of these compounds, the product:
- helps prevent ARVI, influenza, colds, viral hepatitis, etc., reduces the frequency of relapses of herpes;
- when left in the mouth for a long time (rinsing), it eliminates bad breath, protects teeth and gums from bacterial damage (it is most effective against Streptococcus mutans and bacteria of the genus Lactobacillus representing the most dangerous, from the point of view of the likelihood of developing caries, oral bacteria);
- reduces the number of fungi of the genus Candida, present in the body and thereby helps to normalize the functioning of the intestinal microflora, which is often literally strangled by pathogenic fungi and bacteria.
The body begins to produce even more hormone. But even this has little effect. Insulin resistance develops and then diabetes. Coconut oil is an energy source that is independent of insulin. Therefore, it relieves tension from the pancreas, gives it the opportunity to return hormone production to normal levels, and allows cells to actively work without glucose. And gradually the ability to respond correctly to hormonal signals returns to them.
Normalization of hormonal profile. Saturated fatty acids are very important for hormone synthesis. Coconut oil not only normalizes hormonal status in terms of insulin production, but also helps adequate production of other hormones, such as estrogens. It works especially effectively for menopausal women.How to use?
Typically, coconut oil accounts for 20% of your total daily calories. That is, a person who allows himself 2000 kcal per day needs to eat 36-39 grams of the product (2.3-2.5 tablespoons).
Fixed doses. This approach is used more often. It does not involve counting calories. Whatever their average amount during the day, simply add 2 tablespoons of oil to the diet.
With any method of introducing the product into the diet, you should start with 1 teaspoon per day. Gradually increasing this amount to the selected dose.
How to properly introduce it into the diet?
- Use when frying instead of any other oil. Coconut fat is ideal for cooking with it, since 9% consists of saturated acids that do not oxidize during heat treatment.
- A substitute for butter or vegetable oil in absolutely any recipe from gravy to baking. Replacement is done in a ratio of 1 to 1.
- Adding to tea and coffee. This method may seem strange. But it's useful. Usually take 1 teaspoon of oil for one large cup of drink.
- Dietary supplements. Not the best way. Since one capsule of supplements usually contains only 1 gram of oil. That is, to achieve the daily concentration you need to swallow several dozen capsules.
Never buy refined oils. Only cold-pressed oil can be eaten.
You can also make the product yourself. True, this process is quite labor-intensive.
In this article you will find a detailed description of each method.
Possible harm
So far, no serious side effects have been reported from using the product.
Some people (rarely) are allergic to coconut. They may also have a reaction to the oil.
However, do not forget that oil is useful only in the amount that was indicated. If it is excessively included in the diet, diarrhea may occur, as well as an increase in body weight, since the amount of calories will be too excessive. And if you are not seriously involved in sports, you are unlikely to be able to burn them.
Conclusion
The benefits of coconut oil are so great that at the present time scientists consider it almost the healthiest food product on planet Earth.
The fat from this tropical fruit helps you lose weight, protects against cancer and diabetes, increases physical endurance, and protects against bacterial, viral and fungal infections. It has a lot of advantages.
and does not cause any harm. Of course, if taken in the right dosage. And this is approximately 2 tablespoons per day.
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