How Healthy is Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is always an insider tip for beauty. Top model Miranda Kerr recently announced that she could not imagine one day without coconut oil. However, coconut oil contains a high content of saturated fat and is therefore criticized by many. EAT SMARTER wanted to clear up. What is coconut oil, what's inside and can coconut oil really deliver its promise to its fans?
Four teaspoons of coconut oil a day is the beauty secret of Miranda Kerr. In green tea, on salad, as a cooking ingredient, “there is not a day without coconut oil for me," the supermodel recently reported.
Beauty by Coconut Oil
Why do stars and starlets swear by coconut oil? The fatty acids in coconut oil maintain the skin and hair. Especially for dry hair and skin it can donate an extra portion of moisture. Coconut oil is therefore often used in creams and other beauty products, including as a hair mask or scrub. The lauric acid contained in coconut oil is a medium chain fatty acid, which is reputed to be small miracles in this regard.
Coconut Oil: Lauric Acid in the Spotlight of Science
Lauric acid is found, in large quantities, in coconut oil and is converted in the body into monolaurin, which has become increasingly interesting in science. There are now several studies that confirm the beneficial effects of lauric acid from coconut oil. Among other things, coconut oil also has an antibacterial effect and has a positive impact on the cardiovascular system. It also helps with elevated cholesterol levels. However, the need for research is still vast. This is especially true for the question of whether coconut oil helps you lose weight.
Enjoy Coconut Oil in Moderation
Nutrition experts point out that coconut oil contains a lot of saturated fat - 90 percent. This can increase the risk of dyslipidemia. It is suspected there is a correlation between the increased intake of saturated fatty acids and cardiovascular disease and even breast cancer. The German Nutrition Society (DGE) evaluated the ratio of fatty acids in coconut oil as unfavorable. EAT SMARTER recommends consuming coconut fat, similar to palm oil in moderation.
Coconut Oil in the Kitchen
Coconut oil is extracted from the pulp of coconut, and is a solid fat at room temperature (about 20-25 degrees Celsius). Coconut oil is heat-resistant (smoke point 200 degrees) and is thus also suitable for frying. Important: Consumers should pay attention to high quality coconut oil, best to use is cold-pressed, extra virgin coconut oil of organic quality.
Coconut Water: A Lean Drink?
Along with coconut oil, many celebrities swear by coconut water. The water of the green coconut - not to be confused with coconut milk - is fat-free, contains many minerals, is isotonic and has a detoxifying effect to help you lose weight. However, it is not scientifically proven. Coconut water is considered, to nutritional experts, not a solution, but an alternative to bottled water. Coconut water is now available in any well-stocked grocery store and can be partly enriched for taste. It tastes best with ice.
