Coconut Oil and Weight Loss

Recently the connection has been made between coconut oil and weight loss. For most people it sounds strange because coconut oil is pure fat itself. Moreover, more than 60 % of its lipids are saturated fats. So, how can coconut oil help weight loss?

The unique characteristic of coconut oil

Coconut oil saturated fats are of medium-chain size while other vegetable oils contain long-chain fatty acids. Human body uses medium-chain lipids rather like carbohydrates than fats. Therefore, fatty acids we get from coconut oil go straight to the liver where energy is generated from them. Coconut oil fats neither circulate in blood nor they are stored away adding body weight. The general result is that coconut oil consumption increase metabolism ratio. Remember, that this is true only for unrefined cold pressed virgin coconut oil.

As Body Building states, there is a scientific study proving the thermogenic activity of coconut oil. Obese volunteers consuming coconut oil had their metabolism increased in between 48 and 65 percent of cases. Another interesting fact was that thermogenic effect lasted for a day after the consumption of medium-chain fatty acids. The study showed that coconut oil not only helped generate energy, but also burned off stores fat.

Coconut oil also has a detoxifying effect on the body.

The primary coconut oil fat and weight loss

Half of coconut oil fatty acids are made up of valuable rare lauric acid. Besides virgin coconut oil, it is present only in human breast milk and palm kernel oil.

First of all, lauric acid is appreciated for its powerful antimicrobial activity. However, it has a great influence on cholesterol level. This medium-chain fatty acid significantly increases the amount of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. It is essential for the supporting of cardiovascular health and over all metabolism. Besides, the proper cholesterol level is closely connected with the rate of glucose synthesis and release. The higher the level of sugar in blood the more fat is stored in the body. Lauric acid is responsible for keeping blood-sugar levels under control. Besides it good effect on body cholesterol, this fatty acid slows down the digestive process and regulates the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose.

Tips on weight loss with coconut oil

• Consume carbohydrates together with coconut oil to lower their glycemic and sugar rising effect.
• Start your coconut oil consumption slowly with one tablespoon per day. Gradually increase your coconut oil intake. Six tablespoons is the maximum. However, a final dose depends on your weight.
• Take a dose of coconut oil before breakfast to feel fuller, to provide your cells with immediate energy and to keep your carbohydrate cravings under control.
• Partly substitute your traditional cooking oils and fats with coconut oil.
• Try coconut oil as an addition to a protein shake.

About the author: Nastassia Green – the founder and editor over at Oilypedia.com, a healthy lifestyle coach, very passionate about promoting natural living and healthy diet ideas. Nastassia is a strong believer in inner harmony as a the key to health and happiness.