Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is the new essential superfood or super oil. It is described as the best alternative to add to cooking, coffee and even face masks for a healthy glow. Oils are usually grouped according to the volume of fat they contain. Coconut oil is known to contain monounsaturated, polysaturated, and saturated fatty acids. Saturated fats [1] are solid at room temperature. Consuming excess saturated fat is one of the most common causes of high cholesterol. Coconut oil is known to contain about 92% of saturated fat. Saturated fats can be found in meat, dairy, and lard. They raise the amount of cholesterol in the blood, especially LDL [2], which is also called “bad cholesterol.”
Unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature. They can be found in plant based oils such as olive oil. Unsaturated fats [3] can also be found in peanut, cotton seed, sunflower, soybean oil, and rape. They do not elevate the amount of triglycerides in the blood.
While coconut may be mostly available in solid form, it would help to imagine it as a liquid when you add it to your cooking. This will help you manage the amount you use and enjoy the flavor of the soil. Note that coconut oil is not a “better alternative” to other options. Its consumption should be effectively controlled as part of a healthy diet.