Coconut Oil Saturated Fat

Coconuts are filled with tons of saturated fat. So why are they so good for us?

• First I want to make it known that saturated fats, like coconut oil, is much better for you than the processed and heated polyunsaturated oils, like soybean and vegetable oil.  Coconut oil is mostly saturated fat so it is very stable. Unrefined coconut oil can last for 3-5 years at room temperature! It’s quite the opposite for soybean and vegetable oil. These polyunsaturated oils become rancid quite fast and turn into trans-fatty acids.

• Unlike most saturated fats, coconut is a vegan source so it’s structure is quite different. The saturated fat in coconut oil is made primarily with medium chain triglycerides (MCT’s). There are several studies that have shown that MCT’s increase your metabolism and promote weight loss. On the opposite hand, soybean oil is a common fat used to feed livestock because it helps the animals to gain weight.

• If we break down the components of a coconut even further, we find two important fatty acids (Lauric and Capric fatty acids). These fatty acids have unique benefits, such as anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-protozoal, and anti-microbial functions. Therefore, coconut oil is a fabulous immune enhancer.

How can we incorporate coconut oil into our diet?

• Try cooking with extra virgin coconut oil. You can use it for sautéing and stir-fry dishes due to it’s high heat stability.
• Blend extra virgin coconut oil into a fruit smoothie.
• Substitute extra virgin coconut oil for vegetable oil when baking.
• Also use organic coconut milk. You can try it by itself or use it in cooking and baking.

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