Coconut oil is seen as a health elixir, but has recently been increasingly criticized. Some call it a superfood, others call it dangerous fat. So the question is: is coconut oil really dangerous to health, or is it just another myth?
Coconut oil dangerous due to saturated fat content
The main reproach that experts often present is the extremely high amount of saturated fat in the coconut. This oil contains as much as 80-90 %saturated fat, while the butter contains about 63 %and a beef fat for 50 %.
The World Health Organization and the American Heart Association recommend limiting the consumption of saturated fat as they promote the growth of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) in the blood. A lot of research including in the magazine Circulation published meta -analysis, confirmed that coconut oil increases LDL more than unsaturated fat oils such as olive or sunflower.
Doesn’t coconut oil really have no benefit?
Despite the risk, coconut oil has unique properties. Most of the fat contained in it are medium chain triglycerides (VGT), which are absorbed faster in the body than long -circuit fatty acids. They immediately travel to the liver where they can be used to get fast energy.
In addition, coconut oil also increases the amount of “good” cholesterol (HDL) in the blood, while the laurel acid, which is about 50 % of its composition, has antibacterial and antiviral properties.
When does coconut oil become dangerous to health?
While coconut oil has some benefits, health professionals tend to agree that coconut oil dangerous to healthif used too often or in large quantities. Especially if the human nutrition lacks fiber, vegetables and fruits.
How to consume oil safely?
- Choose rarely and moderately – Coconut oil is worth using as a spice for baked goods or Asian dishes, but not as the main oil for everyday cooking.
- Choose alternatives – Olive, avocado or rapeseed oil is much more suitable for heart health.
- Look at the entire diet – One teaspoon of coconut oil in a balanced diet will not harm.
Source: RBC.UA
Photos associative © canva.
