The virgin coconut oil which is of the present article is obtained by cold pressing of the white coconut meat without using any type of chemical. This is made up almost 90% from saturated fat. But wait … this type of fat is not bad? Not all saturated fats are created equal. Most of this type of fat in coconut oil comes from the beneficial medium chain fatty acid which has shown great health benefits.
This oil is liquid and transparent manner from 25 degrees centigrade. Below that temperature it tends to solidify and becomes white. It is noteworthy that the properties of this oil are not altered in passing from solid to liquid and vice versa so that it can be stored both room temperature and cooling. Also this is one of the best oils for cooking as it is very resistant to high temperatures thus maintaining its nutritional properties when heated without being oxidized.
A distinction that although both oils are obtained from the same plant, not to be confused with coconut oil palm oil. Both oils are extracted from different parts of the coconut and therefore have very different properties.
Coconut oil is one of the foods that despite has been used for many years in the past decade has come a boom for both its nutritional and cosmetic and therapeutic properties. Below is a very brief summary of some of the main benefits offered including coconut oil in the diet:
- It helps speed up metabolism and reduces body fat: This happens because the medium chain fatty acids mentioned above. Shorter chains when these fats allow the body to use more quickly for energy rather than being stored.
- Have antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties: 50% of coconut oil is made up of a type of fatty acid called lauric acid becomes monolaurin and this has a powerful effect against viruses, bacteria and fungi.
- It improves cardiovascular risk factors: Several studies have shown how coconut oil helps lower triglycerides, LDL and increases HDL, improves antioxidant status of blood. This improves the overall condition of the cardiovascular system.
- It promotes healthy hair and skin, thanks to its high content of vitamin E and K, make it a powerful ally when it comes to improving the overall condition of the skin and hair.
The recommended intake of coconut oil amount will depend on each person, however this may be from 2 teaspoons to 2 tablespoons per day. How I can use it in the kitchen? Use up to you prepare raw salads, in smoothies and green smoothies, as a spread on bread or add to hot herbal tea. Also as mentioned above it can be used to cook food. Moreover coconut oil can be used directly on the hair and skin.