Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a natural, plant-based, healthy type of oil. The oil comes from the coconut palm tree and is pressed out of the coconut. It contains about 65% saturated fat with smaller amounts of mono and polyunsaturated fat. As more and more clinical research continues to emerge, we need a good balance of saturated, mono, and polyunsaturated fat in our daily diet.  The studies suggest that using coconut oil can help to increase metabolism, satiety and also help to control body weight. Other studies also suggest that coconut oil can aid in managing inflammation. 

Commercial uses of coconut oil: cooking, baked products, pastries, breads, lotions, toothpastes, detergents, and shampoos.

Granola in Coconut Oil

Ingredients

4 cups rolled oats

4 cups quick oats

1 cup bran or wheat germ

1-2 cups chopped almonds

1 cup of raisins or cranberries (I used cranberries)

1 cup shredded coconut

1 1/2 cup coconut oil

1/2 cup honey

Directions

Bake at 325°F in roasting pan for 20-30 min.

References

Shils ME, Olson JA, Shike M, Ross AC, Editors. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 1999. Williams and Wilkins. http://www.wwilkins.com. Pp. 623, 1158, 1667-1668, 1679.

Enig M. Know your fats: The complete primer for understanding the nutrition of fats, oils and cholesterol. 2000. Bethesda Press. http://www.bethesdapress.com. Pp.87-99, 114-115, 146-169, 189-243.

St. Onge MP. Dietary fats, teas, dairy, and nuts: potential functional foods for weight control? Am J Clin Nut 2005;81 (1):7-15.