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Health Advantages of Coconut Oil

For many years, scientists warned consumers about the dangers of coconut and one of its most common byproducts, coconut oil. Both are extremely high in saturated fat. Based just on the nutrition label, it would seem you are risking death with each bite. Look beyond the numbers, however, because coconuts and coconut oil are actually very healthy. From its heat resistance to its antifungal properties, coconut oil has just as many beneficial attributes as olive oil.

  1. Fat Content

    • Coconut doesn't look too pretty on a nutrition label---a cup of shredded coconut meat has 283 calories, 27 grams of fat and 24 grams of saturated fat. A tablespoon of coconut oil has 118 calories, 14 grams of fat and 12 grams of saturated fat. While the general rule of healthy living is the less saturated fat, the better, coconut oil contains a very specific kind of saturated fat: short and medium chain branched fatty acids. According to a study from McGill University in Quebec, Canada, these are good saturated fats that can keep cell walls strong and boost metabolic function. The body treats these specific fats like carbohydrates and will quickly utilize them for energy.

    Antibacterial and Antifungal Benefits

    • Two fatty acids in coconut oil are lauric acid and capric acid. According to biochemist Mary Enig, these fatty acids transform into the monoglycerides monolaurin and monocaprin. According to a 2007 study published in the "Journal of Medicinal Food," These monoglycerides actually fight pathogenic bacteria, yeast and fungi. They are also antiviral and antiprotozoal and will destroy lipid-coated viruses. Because of its effect on lipids, coconut oil can potentially boost the immune system.

    Healthy Cooking Benefits

    • Coconut oil is also useful in cooking. The saturated fat in coconut oil prevents it from easily oxidizing. Oxidation renders even healthy oils, such as olive oil, unhealthy due to the creation of free radicals, which are carcinogenic. Coconut oil can withstand high temperatures, making it a great oil for high-temperature stir-fries and searing.

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