We love using our coconut bowls made from coconut shells but did you know the oil from coconuts has several health benefits, the most important ones being its usefulness in hair care and skin care.
There is a growing body of research that shows by adding coconut oil to your diet could be one of the easiest ways to improve your health and well-being. Read on to learn about 5 coconut oil benefits and how to incorporate coconut oil in your diet.
#1 Coconut oil kills bacteria.
Around half of the fatty acids in coconut oil are lauric acid. Lauric acid is particularly good at killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Therefore, it’s great in helping you stave off infections when used externally. On the other hand, when you ingest coconut oil, it reacts with enzymes to forms a monoglyceride called monolaurin. And guess what? Monolaurin is great for killing harmful pathogens too!
#2 Coconut oil helps you build and maintain muscle.
It’s great for building muscle, according to a Diabetes study! Medium Chain Triglycerides or MCTs found in coconuts are also used in popular muscle building products. But many supplements use processed forms of MCTs. By eating actual coconut oil, you’ll benefit from getting your MCTs in their natural and most effective form. Add 1-2 tablespoons of it to a muscle building shake daily to feel the full benefits of coconut oil.
#3 Coconut oil promotes heart health.
Coconut oil is high in natural saturated fats. A 2016 review study revealed that 50 percent of fats found in coconut oil are medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), such as lauric acid. These acids are absorbed easily by the intestine and can be used by the body to produce energy. Further, the MCTs do not participate in the transport or biosynthesis of cholesterol.
In a research study conducted on 116 coronary artery disease patients, it was observed that a diet rich in extra virgin coconut oil led to an increase in good cholesterol levels (HDL cholesterol) and decrease in bad cholesterol levels (LDL cholesterol).
#4 Coconut oil promotes healthy hair
Coconut oil helps in the healthy growth of your hair and gives a unique shine. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that coconut oil is also highly effective in reducing protein loss, which, if unchecked, can lead to various unhealthy qualities in your hair.
This is one of the reasons why it is used as a hair care oil, and in the manufacturing of various conditioners and dandruff-relief creams. The best variety for healthy hair is organic extra virgin coconut oil. Just apply it topically to your hair or use a coconut oil hair mask.
#5 Coconut oil improves your skin
It has been found to enhance protective barrier functions and have an anti-inflammatory effect on skin, plus it feels amazing.
Oh and it is great for refreshing your coconut bowl. Just give it a quick wipe over with coconut oil to make it shine just like new.