For some time now coconut oil has been a buzz word around the health industry, mainly because of its varied health benefits. There has previously been a misconception spread among many people that coconut oil is not good for heart health. In reality, it is extremely beneficial for the heart.
Coconut Oil can improve blood cholesterol levels and may lower your risk of heart disease as it is loaded with saturated fats which raise HDL (the good) cholesterol and change the LDL (the bad) cholesterol to a benign subtype. It contains about 50% lauric acid, which helps in actively preventing various heart problems like high cholesterol and high blood pressure. It reduces the incidence of injury and damage to arteries and therefore helps in preventing atherosclerosis. Studies suggest that the intake of coconut oil may help to maintain healthy lipid profiles in pre-menopausal women.
Coconut oil is an excellent massage oil that acts as an effective moisturizer on all types of skin, including dry skin. Unlike mineral oil, there is virtually no chance of having any adverse side effects on the skin from the application of coconut oil. Therefore, it is a safe solution for preventing dryness and flaking of skin. It can also delay the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin, which normally accompany aging. It helps in preventing degenerative diseases and premature aging due to its well-known antioxidant properties and can help in treating various skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections. For that exact reason, coconut oil forms the base ingredient of various body care products like soaps, lotions, and creams that are used for skin care. It strengthens the immune system because it contains anti-fungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. The human body converts lauric acid into monolaurin which research has supported as an effective way to deal with viruses and bacteria that cause diseases like herpes, influenza, and even HIV. Candida, also known as Systemic Candidiasis, is a tragic disease caused from excessive and uncontrolled growth of yeast called Candida Albicans in the stomach. Coconut oil provides relief from the inflammation caused by candida, both externally and internally. Its high moisture retaining capacity keeps the skin from cracking or peeling off.
So if you haven’t yet discovered for yourself the health benefits of Coconut Oil do yourself a favour and try it, either in your cooking or on your skin. Your body will love you for it!
Sourced: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/health-benefits-of-coconut-oil.html
