When we cook with coconut oil, it makes us feel like we are living on an exotic, sunny island. There is something about that tropical flavor that makes us want to pack our bags and move to Hawaii! Coconut oil is super yummy and tastes great with a variety of dishes. Our favorite way to cook with it is with white fish (like tilapia) and chicken breasts. Add a little squirt of lime and a dash of sea salt and you’re good to go! Not only does coconut oil taste great but it’s good for you too! Here are some of the health benefits of coconut oil. Aloha!
- Coconut oil has powerful antimicrobial and antifungal properties. According to well-known naturopath Bruce Fife, N.D., bacteria known to be killed by the medium-chain triglycerides in coconut oil include the bacteria associated with throat infections, pneumonia, sinusitis, food poisoning, urinary tract infections,, conjunctivitis, and stomach ulcers.
- This healthful tropical oil is almost fully saturated (92 percent of the fatty acids in it).
- It is safe to use coconut oil at high temperatures. Combine it with ghee if you want to mellow out the taste of coconut.
- It is well known that the absorption of calcium, magnesium, and amino acids has been found to increase when infants are fed a diet using coconut oil.
- It has been shown that coconut oil has a neutral effect on blood cholesterol, even in situations where coconut oil is the sole source of fat. Remember: The saturated fats found in French fries are totally different than the health saturated fats in natural foods like coconuts.
- When buying coconut oil, always go for the best; virgin or extra virgin coconut oil. It’s never hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated, and it is processed without high heat and chemicals.
- Populations that consume coconuts as a major part of their diet are rarely troubled by osteoporosis.
References
Bowden, J. (2007). The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth. Beverly, MA: Fair Winds Press.
