Coconut

Studies suggest that coconut contains properties that can be helpful in a wide range of ailments from heart disease to Alzheimer's. Unfortunately, the coconut is one of those foods whose health benefits are often hotly argued over. Although some argue that the high levels of saturated fats in coconut make it a less than ideal food, there is a lot of evidence supporting the many health benefits of this mighty fruit. Extra virgin coconut oil is composed predominately of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which are distinctly different from the long-chain fatty acids more commonly found in unhealthy high-fat diets. It is these MCTs that give coconut many of its healing properties.

Heart Diseases:

Many people can’t imagine how a food high in saturated fat like coconut can be beneficial for the heart. Extra virgin coconut oil is beneficial for the heart because it contains about 50% lauric acid, which helps in preventing various heart problems including high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. In addition, the saturated fats present in coconut oil are Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT’s) which do not lead to increase in LDL levels. The coconut actually protects against heart disease by increasing good cholesterol and lowering the ratio of bad and good cholesterol.

IBS

Extra virgin coconut oil has been shown to help improve the digestive system and thus prevents various stomach and digestion related problems including irritable bowel syndrome. The saturated fats present in coconut oil have antimicrobial properties which can help control the bacteria, fungi and parasites that cause indigestion.

 

Weight Loss

Extra virgin coconut oil can be a helpful tool in your weight loss efforts. It contains short and medium-chain fatty acids that help in taking off excessive weight. Coconut is easy to digest and it helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and enzymes systems. It also helps to increase body metabolism and energy because it is more likely to be burned as fuel than stored body fat.