Coconut oil has become very popular in recent years due to its many supposed health benefits. But is it really as healthy as many people claim it is? More importantly, can using coconut oil in your diet have a negative effect on your health?
The Pros of Using Coconut Oil in Your Diet
There are many reasons why eating coconut oil can be good for you. For one, it’s rich in several fatty acids that can increase your levels of the “good” HDL cholesterol. This, in turn, may also help lower your risk of heart disease. What’s more, a 2009 study found that coconut oil helped a group of women reduce their waist size.
Research shows that the good fats in coconut oil could help you burn more calories. Not only that but they may also contribute to a lower calorie intake. Moreover, coconut oil is a good source of lauric acid. Several studies have found that this acid could help kill harmful bacteria and fungi, thus preventing infections.
The Cons of Using Coconut Oil in Your Diet
As you can see, the dietary use of coconut oil has many proven health benefits. But are there any downsides? So far, no major studies have investigated this matter.
It is important to keep in mind that coconut oil is a source of saturated fats. The World Health Organization warns that these fats might have a negative impact on your coronary health. As such, they shouldn’t make more than 10% of your daily calorie intake.
What’s more, a recent study has challenged the idea that HDL cholesterol is actually “good.” Contrary to what experts believe, it suggests that HDL might not help prevent heart disease. This may cause concern for some, as coconut oil can boost your HDL levels by up to 15%.
The Takeaway
While there are many pros to using coconut oil, the situation is far from black-and-white. But based on strong scientific evidence, adding it to your diet could have a positive effect on your health. Just make sure to consume it in moderation as part of a healthy and balanced eating plan.
