We all know what coconut oil is. We have, in fact, used this specific oil either in cooking or for skin and hair purposes. But it is often that we miss out on the advantages of things like the reason why coconut oil is so good for us. We can see the surprising results of using coconut oil. This article will show you the scientific reasons why coconut oil is beneficial for us, in every aspect.
Coconut oil can be made in two ways — the dry process or the wet process. The basic, and common form of oil that we normally get is extracted through the dry process. It takes 12 months for a coconut to mature from the flower. Sometimes a coconut is taken when it is around 9 to 11 months old. During the dry procedure, the coconut meat is extracted from the shell, and is dried using extreme heat, such as fire, kiln, or even sunlight. This is known as copra.
The wet process takes longer time. Here, water and emulsion oil are used to create the coconut oil. So it takes rigorous boiling and a series of hard work to separate the oil from the water. The task is quite expensive, and a lot of pre-treatments, such as cold, shock waves, acids, and more, are used before transforming into coconut oil.
This specific oil has health benefits, and we shall have a sneak peak at how it is beneficial for us. Here are five scientifically supported reasons why we should use coconut oil.
1. Boost Brain Function in Alzheimer’s Patients
Coconut oil contains fatty acids. These fatty acids are capable of increasing blood levels of ketone bodies that supply energy to the brain cells. Ketone bodies play a vital role in reducing symptoms in Alzheimer’s through producing alternative energy source for the malfunctioning brain cells in these patients. Usually reduction of glucose energy in certain parts of the brain leads to Alzheimer’s disease. It is found in studies that consuming medium chain triglycerides can lead to significant improvement in brain functions of the patients. And the other term for medium chain trigycerides is fatty acids, that can be found in coconut oils.
2. Improve Blood Cholesterol Levels & Lower Risk of Heart Disease
Cholesterol has direct link to heart diseases. If the LDL (the bad) cholesterol is high, the chance of having heart disease is also high. But the higher the HDL (the good) cholesterol is, the better it your health is. It is found out the coconut oil contains saturated fat. This saturated fat increases the HDL level, and reduces the LDL level. It also regulates blood clotting factors, and contains antioxidants that are very much required in our bodies. As a result, the risk of having heart diseases decreases,
3. Coconut Oil, and a Beautiful You
Another reason why you should use coconut oil is because of the significant change it can bring to your outer appearance. If you massage this oil on your scalp at least once (or twice) a week, you will have thicker mane in about 6 weeks. It is also recommendable for frizzy hair since it fights frizz away and smooths the hair. Coconut oil is a great natural moisturizer for your skin. It will keep your skin hydrated all year around. It is also a good way to remove make-up. And, it can be used as an alternative to highlighting your cheeks. Coconut oil, if used regularly, is an exceptional way to soften your nail cuticles.
4. Coconut oil in your diet
Coconut oil is a recommended substitute for butter or shortening in bakery. It is very healthy, and the taste comes out a little sweet, but full of coconut flavor. It is always asked to use virgin coconut oil, as it is healthier than soybean oil. Also, it is suitable for vegans. You can use this oil in baking, in cooking curries, or even in smoothies.
5. Food for you
Here are some recipes for you that you can try with coconut oil. I hope you will like the tastes of them. If you don’t make it your regular oil, at least use it once a week for a change in flavor.
