Healthy Coconut Oil-2

Antibacterial properties: Coconut oil has natural antibacterial properties that help boost immune function and fight off illness-causing viruses and bacteria. It also helps protect the body from ringworm, yeast, candida and intestinal parasites, among other issues. Whats great about the oil is that its texture allows for easy external application, and it can be used for skin issues like diaper rash, eczema and acne. Of course, be sure you're storing the oil you use on your body in a separate container from the one containing the oil you use for cooking.

Weight and Cholesterol maintenance: Research shows that, women who had abdominal obesity(excess belly fat), adding coconut oil to their diets reduced body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and "bad" LDL Cholesterol, while raising "good" HDL Cholesterol. Replacing cholesterol-raising fats like butter with a healthier fat like coconut oil is a great way to support weight loss and help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. And healthy weight and cholesterol levels are also good for the heart.

Skin and Hair health: Coconut oil is naturally moisturizing, making it good to use externally on dry skin and hair. It also contains the antioxidant Vitamin E, which has a protective effect on the skin and supports healthy aging by reducing free radical damage. I recommend using organic coconut oil to limit exposure to toxins and chemicals.

Diabetes support: Emerging studies show evidence that coconut oil supports the health of those with or at risk for Type 2 Diabetes. Research published in a American Heart Association's journal found that "dietary supplementation with MCFA ( medium chain fatty acids) found in sources like coconut oil may be beneficial for preventing obesity and peripheral insulin resistance" conditions that can lead to diabetes.

We will learn about how to replace other cooking oils with coconut oil and its supplementation in our next article.