The Buzz About Coconut Oil!

Coconut Oil is all the buzz these days and is gaining momentum in the culinary and health worlds.  Several years ago coconut oil got a bad rap when claims it increased cholesterol and had a negative effect on the body.  Much of that has now been disproved.

Coconut Oil has proven to be a heart healthy food that helps the body run smoother.  When consumed in moderation it aids the body in resisting viruses and bacteria that cause illnesses.  It helps fuel the hormones of thyroid and controls blood sugar.   Studies have shown those who take coconut oils see an improvements in their blood sugar levels.  When the thyroid functions properly it increases a person metabolism, energy and endurance.  Coconut oil has a saturated fat called lauric acid, a type of MCT (triglycerides). Lauric acid helps increases the good HDL cholesterol in the blood to help improve cholesterol ratio levels.  When the thyroid does not function properly it produces higher levels of cholesterol.

Coconut oil is great for the skin and hair.  It is able to penetrate deep into the skin naturally without any harmful chemicals.  It helps strengthen the skin and tissue while it removes the excess dead skin cells that make your skin feel rough and look flakey.  Many over the counter skin creams contain a great deal of water that give the appearance of moisturizing your skin along with many harmful chemicals. (See the 5 part series "Do you know what is in your skincare?")  It is ok to have water in a skin cream.  However it is important to know what kind of water is being used and that it is not the main ingredient. When the proper ratio is used with other oils it can help create a silky smooth lotion.  Make sure you are using a natural skincare cream or use coconut oil right out of the bucket!

Hair loves coconut oil!   It helps with dandruff and scalp flaking.  Many dandruff creams and psoriasis treatments contains coconut oil since it promotes healthy and shiny hair.  Coconut oil helps repair dry and damaged hair.  It also helps control frizzy/curly hair, which is what I have when the warm weather hits.

Here is a treatment my friend does nightly before going to bed.

• Take small sections of your hair and rub in the coconut oil. Make sure the hair and scalp are coated evenly.  You do not need much!
• Wrap your hair in a shower cap or plastic wrap.
• Keep treatment on overnight.
• Shampoo and condition as usual in the morning.
• Repeat this process daily until your hair reaches the desirable look and feel of your hair.  It could take 1 – 2 months depending on how damaged the hair is.  Be patient… it will be worth it in the end!

You can also put a very small amount on your hair after styling.  Remember… a little goes a LONG way!

Allergies are considered to be rare with coconut oil.  However it is important to check with your doctor if you are concerned about an allergic reaction or are concerned about including it to your diet.  Remember you know your body.  It will tell you if it doesn’t like something.

Coconut Oil!!!!!