Coconut OilIt seems like everywhere I go, people are talking about coconut oil. Either they are consuming it already or intend on getting some because they’ve heard about its remarkable health benefits. Coconut oil is heavily promoted on websites and proclaimed by certain “experts” to be the world’s most weight loss-friendly fat. Coconut oil enthusiasts say that it can boost metabolism; it can help you lose belly fat; and it is an appetite suppressant causing you to eat less without trying.

So, is coconut oil really a healthy food that promotes weight loss? Here’s the scoop.

Coconut oil contains a type of fat called medium chain triglycerides (MCT). The unique structure of this type of fat makes it easier to burn and harder to store in adipose tissue compared with most other fats. Furthermore, coconut oil contains 2.6 percent fewer calories per gram than other fats. This may seem like a small difference, but it equals about 100 calories less per pound of fat and can become significant over time.

Although this sounds promising, there is no convincing scientific evidence that adding coconut oil to your diet will help you lose weight. And since coconut oil is a saturated fat, it has the potential to increase your risk of heart disease. For these reasons, I recommend using it sparingly. If you like the taste, go ahead and use it occasionally in cooking and baking. Just don’t gobble it down by the spoonful – one tablespoon contains about 120 calories.

POWERFUL WEIGHT LOSS TIP
               Consume healthy fats in moderation.

A nutritious diet should include some healthy fats like olive oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, and sesame oil. It’s important to understand, however, that you can get too much of a good thing. Even healthy fats have a lot of calories. If you are trying to lose weight, take a look at your whole diet and make sure you are not overeating fat – or anything else for that matter.

Now I’d love to hear from you.

Have you gotten on the coconut oil band wagon? Are you using it for weight loss or some other reason? How is it working?

Please share in the comment section below. Your ideas could be very helpful to other readers.

Meanwhile, if you are looking for a nutritionist in New Jersey, contact me @ 732-494-1149 or go to www.NJnutritionist.com for more information.

Image courtesy of  Pixomar / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 

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