Despite its fame in weight-loss diets and as a food that helps burn fat, there are not enough studies to prove that coconut oil is effective in weight loss or controlling other health problems such as high cholesterol and high cholesterol. Alzheimer's disease.
Coconut oil is made from the coconut pulp and does not cause health damage, but due to its high content of saturated fats, should be consumed in moderation. The recommended amount of use is 1 to 2 tablespoons of this oil per day, which should be consumed along with a balanced feed.
Here's the truth for the top 4 benefits associated with coconut oil:
1. Coconut oil does not lose weight
Although some studies show the efficiency of coconut oil consumption to lose weight, they were made in few people and still not enough for this oil to be widely used to aid in weight loss.
To potentiate weight loss, one should consume about 2 tablespoons of coconut oil per day along with a balanced diet with frequent physical activity.
2. Excess coconut oil does not control cholesterol
Some studies have shown that excessive consumption of coconut oil can cause increases in total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol and HDL (good), but at a lower level than butter, which is another source of saturated fat that should also be consumed with moderation.
However, a large study done in women showed that about 1 tablespoon of coconut oil per day improved levels of good cholesterol and did not change the amount of bad cholesterol or triglycerides, showing the benefit of small amounts of that oil in the diet.
To further improve blood cholesterol levels, it is recommended that the main oil to be consumed in food preparation is extra virgin olive oil, which is rich in unsaturated fats and which brings proven benefits in preventing cardiovascular diseases. Here's what the cholesterol-lowering diet should look like.
3. Coconut oil does not increase immunity
Coconut oil has also become known for better immunity and act in combating bacteria, fungi and viruses, strengthening health and preventing infections.
However, these studies were done only in in vitro tests, ie using only cells grown in the laboratory. Thus, it can not yet be confirmed that coconut oil brings these health benefits until new studies are done on people. See other foods that boost immunity.
4. Coconut oil does not fight Alzheimer's
There are no studies in humans that have evaluated the effects of coconut oil on combating depression or improving brain function in healthy individuals or with problems such as Alzheimer's disease.
All studies linked to these problems have evaluated coconut oil in vitro or in animal tests, not allowing their results to be considered as effective for people in general as well.
See other 4 ways to use coconut oil to moisturize skin and hair.