There has long been a debate among many health care advocates about the use of coconut oil. On one hand, coconut oil has been used for centuries by a variety of cultures to cook and for its many health properties. But, on the other hand, the Food and Drug Administration warns against frequent use as it is considered to be a saturated fat with many known harmful health issues associated.

Pros of Consuming or Utilizing Coconut Oil

Those who support the consumption of coconut oil do so for the following perceived health benefits:

Hair Health- Many individuals have found an advantage for their overall hair health when consuming coconut oil or by utilizing it in their hair care products. Coconut oil has been particularly useful for the reduction of dandruff, for the reconditioning of dry or damaged hair and for the re-growth of damaged hair.

Skin Care- Coconut oil is commonly used in massage oils as it is effective at correcting dry skin, similar to other mineral oils. Another common use of coconut oil on the skin it to combat the signs of aging. Some individuals have found other skin benefits to utilizing coconut oil such as fighting psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and general skin infections.

Anti-Aging- The antioxidants contained in coconut oil help to fight the damage caused by free radicals on the skin, causing us to appear older over time.

Weight Loss- Despite it containing saturated fats, coconut oil has shown promise in the assistance of weight loss as it contains both short and medium chain fatty acids which enable the thyroid system to function at a more optimal level. Coconut oil has also shown the ability to stimulate the body’s metabolism, helpful in the reduction and maintenance of a person’s weight.

Digestion- The nutrient make up of coconut oil has shown to improve the body’s digestive system and to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Its ability to perform in both of these functions is primarily due to its anti-microbial properties. Also, coconut oil has shown the ability to aid the body in absorbing other important minerals, such as vitamins and amino acids when consumed.

Strengthening the Immune System- When the body’s immune system is strong, it is in a better position to prevent a variety of illnesses as well as to help the body to recover quickly when it does become inflicted. The anti-microbial properties of coconut oil have antifungal, anti bacterial and anti viral properties, all helpful in the strengthening of the immune system.

Infection Fighting- Coconut oil’s anti fungal, anti bacterial and anti viral properties help the body to fight off infection as well as to reduce the amount of time required for the body to recover from an infection. In particular, coconut oil has been used by some to fight the flu, measles and hepatitis,

Cons of Coconut Oil

While coconut oil is thought to have a variety of pros associated with its use and its consumption, there are also concerns about its harmful health effects. One of the primary reasons that coconut oil is looked upon negatively is that it is a saturated fat, and saturated fats in excess can raise the levels of LDLs in the blood. LDLs are considered to be the ‘bad’ cholesterol, raising someone’s chances of developing heart disease.

The other health issue associated with coconut oil is that when it is hydrogenated it becomes a trans fat as this has been proven to increase LDL levels in the body as well as to impede the ability of the body to utilize the HDL, or the good cholesterol in the body.