Coconut, which has been declared a superfood by many experts and health authorities, is becoming increasingly popular. From coconut water to dried coconut flesh to the increasingly common coconut flour, coconut itself has gained more and more popularity in people’s eyes.
But beyond being a delicious and versatile food, coconuts and coconut oil also offer a range of health benefits. Among the many benefits of coconut oil, the most impressive may be its effects on your health. Coconut oil is unique among oils in that it contains a high proportion of so-called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are digested differently than other fats. These triglycerides are absorbed and metabolized quickly, providing an immediate source of energy. In addition, they are less likely to be stored as fat.
Coconut oil has also been shown to improve heart health by reducing bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol. Coconut oil also contains lauric and caprylic acids, both of which are needed to combat viruses and germs. It is also high in vitamin E, vitamin K, and iron.
Added to your everyday life, coconut oil may have unexpected health benefits, and below we will give a brief explanation for 8 of them which are vital to your health.
1. Supports thyroid function
Thyroid illnesses are caused by abnormalities in the immune system and inflammation. When these are not controlled, a person’s thyroid may be imbalanced. Coconut oil is beneficial in the treatment of hypothyroidism because it can help regulate the immune system as well as decrease inflammation, making it doubly helpful for thyroid function. Regular consumption of extra-virgin coconut oil, when taken with exercise and a healthy diet, helps boost thyroid function.
2. Treats yeast infections
Coconut oil is high in lauric and caprylic acids, both of which are antifungal. Because of lauric acid, caprylic acid, and medium-chain acid, which coconut oil is plenty rich in, coco oil has the ability to fight and destroy yeasts, viruses, and bacteria. According to naturopath Dr. Bruce Fife of the Coconut Research Center, people who are susceptible to yeast infections can benefit from ingesting 3.5 tbsp of organic extra virgin coco oil per day.
3. Avoid sunburn by increasing your sun tolerance
You can build your tolerance to the sun by eating a diet rich in healthy fats. You may enhance your consumption of medium-chain fatty acids by drinking a cup of herbal tea combined with coconut oil, which is required for rejuvenating skin and preventing burning.
4. Fights acne
Bacterial infections in skin glands trigger acne. Inflamed pimples develop, causing distinctive red facial nodules. Coconut oil is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, making it an excellent treatment for acne in its early stages. We advise both oral consumption and topical application of coconut oil for the greatest outcomes.
5. Alleviates allergies and treats sinus infections
Although it may seem strange, putting coconut oil in your nose has been shown to have surprisingly beneficial effects on individuals who suffer from allergies and sinus problems. Coconut oil is a natural antibiotic that’s good to ingest and apply as a nasal rinse, according to Earth Clinic. Add liquid coconut oil to water mixed with salt or baking soda for a nasal rinse. Use a dropper or neti pot to apply a natural nasal rinse.
6. Soothes eczema and other skin conditions
For people, particularly youngsters, who suffer from eczema and other uncomfortable skin diseases like dermatitis, using organic virgin coconut oil may be a lifesaver. It’s also completely safe, so there’s no risk of an allergic response or irritation. It may be applied with ease and requires little contact and rubbing to permeate into the skin.
7. Boosts metabolism
The greatest thing you can do to boost your metabolism is to add and consume medium-chain fatty acids, which coconut oil like we said earlier, has plenty of them.
8. Relieves constipation
Coconut oil is high in fiber and has a beneficial effect on your metabolism. As a result, it’s one of the finest home therapies for constipation. 1/2 teaspoon of virgin coconut oil should be combined with 1 glass of 100 percent natural juice to make a drink. Drink the whole glass half an hour before each meal, 3-4 times a day. Your body and your stomach will be grateful.