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In today's’ health-conscious world, coconut oil isn't just used for cooking, coconut oil’s health benefits range from a weight loss aid to promoting better brain function.

1. Lowers Cholesterol

Coconut oil is rich with saturated fats that help to raise HDL (good) cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease. Coconut oil contains an unusual blend of short and Medium Chain Fatty Acid (MCFAs), specifically lauric, capric, and myristic acids that are linked to special health benefits, such as reducing cholesterol. The boosting of HDLs is actually greater than the boost of Total Cholesterol or Total LDL.

2. Aids in Weight Loss

The medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut oil can speed up energy usage compared to other fats. The MCTs in coconut oil, digest as fast as sugar in the body. They are actually used up preferentially as opposed to other fuel sources and so don't get added to fat cells or ultimately contribute to weight gain. Since there is delayed digestion in the liver, they boost metabolism.

3.Moisturizes Skin

Coconut oil can be used as a skin moisturizer because of its vitamin E content and its positive antioxidant action in the body. This helps stop the damage to the tissues in the body since oxidation is a major source of skin aging. Coconut has surprising benefits when applied to the skin as a moisturizer. It can reduce the harmful skin germ called staph aureus. Its anti-microbial properties can also be useful in treating acne, eczema, psoriasis, and staph infections. Coconut oil helps to improve the moisture and lipid content of people with dry skin.

4.Better Brain Function

The MCTs in coconut oil provides a secondary fuel source aside from glucose that the brain and nervous system can function on. High sugar can contribute to neurological problems, including Alzheimer’s, which has been theorized as a type 3 diabetes. In Alzheimer’s, the brain effectively blocks glucose uptake, so it is fuel-deprived, which can lead to general neurodegeneration.

The consumption of MCTs has led to an improvement in brain function in patients with milder forms of Alzheimer’s, according to a 2004 study published in the journal Neurobiology of Aging.

5. Kills Bacteria, Viruses, And Fungi

Coconut oil has lauric acid, which is believed to have anti-fungal, anti-viral, and antibacterial properties. This makes it helpful with various types of infections. The saturated fats present in coconut oil have antimicrobial properties and help in dealing with various bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can cause indigestion.

Coconut oil has some very impressive health benefits.

However, many people are confused about how much to take and how to eat it.

HOW MUCH COCONUT OIL TO CONSUME?

Studies have found that 2 tablespoons (30 ml) seem to be an effective dose.

This has been shown to benefit weight management, reduce belly fat and improve other health markers.

Some studies used up to 2.5 tablespoons (39 grams) per day, depending on calorie intake.

Two tablespoons provide about 18 grams of medium-chain triglycerides, which is within the range of 15–30 grams that has been shown to increase metabolic rate.

Eating 2 tablespoons (30 ml) per day is a reasonable amount that leaves room for other healthy fats in your diets, such as nuts, extra virgin olive oil, and avocados.

However, start slowly to avoid nausea and loose stools that may occur with high intake. Take 1 teaspoon per day, gradually increasing to 2 tablespoons per day over 1–2 weeks.

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