- 1. Coconut oil does not lose weight
- 2. Excess coconut oil does not control cholesterol
- 3. Coconut oil does not increase immunity
- 4. Coconut oil does not fight Alzheimer's
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 losing weight or in controlling other health problems, such as high cholesterol and Alzheimer's.
Coconut oil is made from coconut pulp and does not harm your health, but due to its high content of saturated fats, it should be consumed in moderation. The recommended amount of use is 1 to 2 tablespoons of this oil per day, which should be consumed together with a balanced diet.
Here is the truth for the 4 main benefits linked to coconut oil:
1. Coconut oil does not lose weight
Although some studies have shown the efficiency of consumption of coconut oil for weight loss, they were made in few people and still not enough for this oil to be widely used to help with weight loss.
To enhance weight loss, you should consume about 2 tablespoons of coconut oil per day, along with a balanced diet with the practice of 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) and HDL (good) cholesterol, 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 of women showed that about 1 dessert spoon 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 this oil in 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 has proven benefits in preventing cardiovascular disease. See what the cholesterol-lowering diet should be like.
3. Coconut oil does not increase immunity
Coconut oil has also become known to improve immunity and act to fight bacteria, fungi and viruses, strengthening health and preventing infections.
However, these studies were done only in in vitro tests, that is, using only cells cultured in the laboratory. Thus, it cannot yet be confirmed that coconut oil brings these health benefits until further studies are done on people. See other foods that boost immunity.
4. Coconut oil does not fight Alzheimer's
There are still no studies in humans that have evaluated the effects of coconut oil in combating depression or in improving brain function in healthy individuals or those with problems like Alzheimer's disease.
All studies related to these problems have evaluated coconut oil in vitro or in animal tests, not allowing its results to be considered efficient for people in general as well.
See 4 other ways to use coconut oil to hydrate your skin and hair.
Also watch the following video and check out how to use coconut oil in a healthy way:
