Go Crazy for Coconuts

One of my blog readers recently asked me about coconut oil, and it reminded me that I haven't written about or discussed this fantastic oil all that much in the past. 

I try to include about a tablespoon of coconut oil in my daily diet. Most often, I just eat a spoonful all by itself. And I give it to my young son because it’s one of the best ways to support immunity and ensure that he is getting a good balance of the various fatty acids.

Yes, coconuts and coconut oil are high in fat. But research has shown that saturated fats in tropical oils such as coconut do not cause heart problems and may actually be beneficial to your heart. Coconut oil reduces LDL cholesterol, raises HDL (the beneficial form of cholesterol), and reduces the stickiness of blood platelets. Coconut oil also has antiviral and antibacterial properties. 

History has shown that the healthiest societies with the longest life spans routinely had higher intakes of uncontaminated saturated fats, including animal fats and coconuts. In the colder climates, Eskimos would eat large amounts of blubber and other animal fats. In the tropics, people consumed large amounts of raw coconut oil (which contains over 92% saturated fats). Even in our part of the world, between these two extremes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and type 2 diabetes were rare when our society consumed more free-range and/or wild animal meat (including the fat as lard) and minimally processed dairy products (butter, raw milk, etc.).

So definitely don't avoid coconuts or coconut oil because you are afraid of the fat content. The benefits outweigh any drawbacks.

One of the better brands of coconut oil that I’ve found is Wilderness Family Naturals. Another brand I like is Omega Nutrition.

Now it's your turn: Tell me how much you love coconut or coconut oil!

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