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Coconut oil is becoming quite popular as a healthy oil for many purposes. The articles below will give you an insight on the benifits of Coconut oil.
Coconut Oil: A New Hope for Health in the 21st Century
By Jayson Kroner
Mere mention of the word tropical recalls an endless horizon of mental imagery—breathtaking sunsets, white sand beaches, the tranquil resonance of steel drums and crashing surf. From a medicinal perspective, one of the tropic’s most commercially stereotyped fruits conjures images that are far different, though no less inspiring to those seeking wellness. Of course, I’m referring to the coconut.
Let’s begin with the basics. Coconuts have been consumed for thousands of years, and are regarded by many civilizations as a primary source of food. Interestingly enough, said civilizations exhibit health patterns and life expectancies that continue to bewilder health professionals. But why? Some would like you to believe that this is because their diets lack fast and processed foods, are high in fresh fish and vegetables and are rarely served through a window. Ok, so these are all very good points. Still, there is simply no mistaking the blatant connection between consumption of coconuts and the drastically low disease rates among the natives who eat them daily.
Here’s what we know. Unadulterated virgin coconut oil contains a number of beneficial medium chain triglycerides (MCT), including Lauric acid, Myristic acid, Capric acid, Oleic acid and Linoleic acid. And just so there’s no confusion, yes, coconut oil is a saturated fat. But because of its unique “medium chain” molecular structure, you need not worry about packing on the pounds.1 MCT’s are unlike other unsaturated fats in that they provide many of the crucial metabolic constituents needed to burn fat, maintain healthy body weight, boost energy and immune system function, regulate thyroid activity, fight fatigue and absorb vital nutrients.2,3,4 And among all of the pro-health compounds inherent to coconut oil, Lauric acid is clearly the most promising and significant.
Within the body, this ultra-beneficial MCT is converted into monolaurin—a chemical compound the body relies on in order to inactivate enveloped viruses, including cytomegalovirus, influenza, HSV-1, cytomegalovirus, influenza, HIV, and a wide array of other pathogenic invaders.4,5 According to research, this remarkable activity can be attributed to monolaurin’s ability to bind to the lipid-protein envelopes of certain viruses, rendering them unable to attach themselves to host cells.6 In the eyes of a growing body of researchers, this simple method of action makes viral replication and infection (in some viruses) nothing short of impossible. What’s even more impressive, there seems to be some pretty solid proof backing this bold theory. A number of studies, including several human trials, have reported “substantial across the board decreases in CD4 and CD8 counts” – a term used to measure total viral loads among patients with challenged immune systems. 7
Other studies have showcased its unique ability to completely eradicate viruses by dissolving the sheath that protects them. Once exposed, many viruses are no match for the relentless immune system. Without its protective lipid membrane, the relationship between the virus and the host cell it invaded goes sour, making it very difficult to replicate, remain dormant or even defend itself.8 And this is the precise influence that monolaurin seems to have on viruses and other pathogenic culprits.
Based on these findings, Coconut oil and lauric acid have become increasingly popular with HIV and AIDS patients, as they have been shown to drastically reduce viral loads and prevent many of the opportunistic health threats associated with weakened immune systems.9 As a result, physicians now commonly use coconut oil when treating patients with immune challenges.
The good news doesn’t stop there, however. MCT’s, especially those in coconut oil, are not stored in the way that other saturated fats are. Rather, they are immediately metabolized by the liver and used as an instant (and might I add, very noticeable) source of energy.10 I personally know several people who have been able to kick their coffee habits, and believe that one week of supplementation can convince anyone who doubts its energy producing potential. In fact, many physicians now recommend coconut oil to patients who deal with daily bouts of chronic fatigue.
Additionally, coconut oil is one of the most digestive-friendly compounds on earth. It has strong antiviral, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that help rid the body of toxins without interfering with the activity of friendly flora.11 And because it is metabolized immediately by the liver and sent to the bloodstream, less strain is placed on the digestive process. 12
The skin is one of the most welcoming of all organs when it comes to reaping the benefits of coconut oil. Taken internally or applied topically, it is well known that coconut oil leaves the skin and hair soft and healthier in appearance and texture. Many users have reported that it clears up acne and blemishes, helps eliminate and reduce the appearance of scars, prevents eczema flare-ups, soothes psoriasis and restores a more vibrant skin tone.
Coconut oil is a remarkable gift to good health, plain and simple. Surprisingly, it seems as though we’ve only scratched the surface of the role it may play in disease prevention and the overall quality of life. I would encourage everyone who reads this to learn as much as they can about its potential benefits, and to, at some point, experience it for themselves. Look for a certified organic Virgin Coconut Oil that contains no less than 6 grams of Lauric Acid. It should be unrefined, unbleached, contain no trans fats and have a soft, distinct taste and texture.
References
1 Garfinkel M, Lee S, Opara EC, Akkwari OE. Insulinotropic potency of lauric acid: a metabolic rational for medium chain fatty acids (MCF) in TPN formulation. Journal of Surgical Research 1992;52:328-333
2 Portillo MP, Serra F, Simon E, del Barrio AS, Palou A. Energy restriction with high-fat diet enriched with coconut oil gives higher UCP1 and lower white fat in rats. International Journal of Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders 1998;22:974-9 Sugano M, Ikeda I. Metabolic interactions between essential and trans-fatty acids. Current Opinions in Lipidology 1996;7:38-42
3 Awad AB. Effect of dietary lipids on composition and glucose utilization by rat adipose tissue. Journal of Nutrition 1981;111:34-39
4 Enig MG, Atal S, Sampugna J and Keeney M. Isomeric Trans Fatty Acids in the U.S. Diet. Journal of the American College of Nutrition 1990;9:471-486
5 Sands JA, Auperin DD, Landin PD, Reinhardt A, Cadden SP. Antiviral effects of fatty acids and derivatives: lipid-containing bacteriophages as a model system in The Pharmaco-logical Effect of Lipids (JJ Kabara, ed) American Oil Chemists' Society, Champaign IL, 1978, pp 75-95
6 Thormar H, Isaacs EC, Brown HR, Barshatzky MR, Pessolano T. Inactivation of enveloped viruses and killing of cells by fatty acids and monoglycerides. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 1987;31:27-31
7 Enig, MG. Lauric oils as antimicrobial agents: theory of effect, scientific rationale, and dietary applications as adjunct nutritional support for HIV-infected individuals. in Nutrients and Foods in AIDS (RR Watson, ed) CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1998, pp. 81-97
8 Isaacs CE, Thormar H. Human milk lipids inactivated enveloped viruses. in Breastfeeding, Nutrition, Infection and Infant Growth in Developed and Emerging Countries (Atkinson SA, Hanson LA, Chandra RK, eds) Arts Biomedical Publishers and Distributors, St. John's NF, Canada, 1990
9 Enig, MG. Lauric oils as antimicrobial agents: theory of effect, scientific rationale, and dietary applications as adjunct nutritional support for HIV-infected individuals. in Nutrients and Foods in AIDS (RR Watson, ed) CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1998, pp. 81-97
10 Hostmark AT, Spydevold O, Eilertsen E. Plasma lipid concentration and liver output of lipoproteins in rats fed coconut fat or sunflower oil. Artery 1980;7:367-383
11 Sugano M, Ikeda I. Metabolic interactions between essential and trans-fatty acids. Current Opinions in Lipidology 1996;7:38-42
12 Nanji AA, Sadrzadeh SM, Yang EK, Fogt F, Maydani M, Dannenberg AJ. Dietary saturated fatty acids: a novel treatment for alcoholic liver disease. Gastroenterology 1995;109:547-554
Jayson Kroner is a Chicago-based fitness writer, certified sports nutritionist, health journalist and co-author of the book 7-Syndrome Healing. His work has appeared in hundreds of national and international forums. He resides in Oak Park, IL and can be contacted via e-mail at jaysonkroner@yahoo.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jayson_Kroner
Virgin Coconut Oil As Skin Moisturizer?
By F Aziz
Virgin coconut oil is proven to have beneficial contents for human health and this conclusion emerges from both clinical tests and studies on the fields.
Not only valuable in improving your stamina, but virgin coconut oil is also confirmed to be very positive for your skin health.
One of many researches on this matter is a randomized double-blind controlled trial occurred in the year 2004, comparing extra virgin coconut oil with mineral oil as a moisturizer for mild to moderate xerosis.
Xerosis is a familiar skin disease caused by a defect in skin barrier. Xerosis patients usually have dry, rough, scaly, and itchy skin. A very effective treatment for them is by moisturizing their skin.
Though virgin coconut oil has been recently revealed to have antiseptic effects, but the effectiveness and safety of this miracle oil as a skin moisturizer has not been studied clinically before.
The only supporting fact is that the people who lives in tropical countries have been using virgin coconut oil as a traditional moisturizer and this went on for centuries.
This clinical study was carried out on 34 patients with mild to moderate xerosis. They were randomized to apply either mineral oil or virgin coconut oil on their legs twice a day for two consecutive weeks.
The results?
Virgin coconut oil is as effective and safe as mineral oil when applied as a skin moisturizer.
This of course added up to the long list of virgin coconut oil health benefits...(visit http://www.all-about-virgin-coconut-oil.com/benefits.html for more info)
This is the information your hospital doesn’t want YOU to know... visit http://www.all-about-virgin-coconut-oil.com for more resources on virgin coconut oil to improve your life!
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7 Reasons Why You Should Be Using Coconut Oil
By Dianne Ronnow
It is a common misconception that coconut oil is bad for you. People all over the world are experiencing the healthy benefits of using coconut oil. It is actually one of the healthiest oils you can consume. Here are the top seven reasons why you should use coconut oil as an alternative to other common cooking oils.
1. Coconut oil doesn't turn to fat in your body.
Unlike many other common oils, like soy (vegetable) and corn, coconut oil won't make you fat. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), which are an easy fuel for the body to burn, without turning to fat. Most other cooking oils and fats contain long-chain triglycerides (LCT). LCT's are usually stored as fat. Since coconut oil is a MCT, it is more easily absorbed and converted to energy quicker.
People in the tropics have relied on coconuts as a traditional staple in their diet for centuries. They consume large amounts of coconut oil every day. Instead of getting fatter, it helps them stay healthy, lean and trim. When they switch from coconut oil to our modern oils, they develop obesity and the health problems that our modern society faces.
Some other people who have known this truth for a long time are people who are in the animal feed business. When livestock are fed vegetable oils, they put on weight and produce more fatty meat. When they are fed coconut oil, they become very lean.
2. Coconut oil increases your metabolism.
Not only does coconut oil convert to energy quicker in your body, it increases your metabolism, which promotes weight loss. Because it boosts your metabolism, it helps your body burn fat more effectively.
Coconut oil may triple your calorie burn. Since coconut oil is a MCT, it is converted to energy so quickly that it creates a lot of heat. In a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, MCT's burn three times more calories for six hours after a meal than LCT's.
The February 15, 2005 issue of Woman's World magazine stated that coconut oil is the "underground high-metabolism secret."
This is great news for people who have thyroid problems, since coconut oil improves sluggish thyroids by stimulating the production of extra thyroid hormones. Most other common oils, like vegetable (soy) and corn have been shown to inhibit thyroid function.
3. Coconut oil has omega 3 fatty acids.
Most cooking oils contain omega 6 fatty acids, something we get way too much of in the United States. Our omega 6 to omega 3 ratio should be 1:1 but it is more like 50:1. We need to drastically cut back our omega 6 oils and consume much more omega 3 oils to be healthy. And coconut oil is filled with these healthy omega 3 fatty acids.
4. Coconut oil gives you energy.
Because of the healthy omega 3 fatty acids and the fact that it increases the metabolism, most people that switch to coconut oil feel a burst of added energy in their daily life.
This is because coconut oil is nature’s richest source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT's), which increase metabolic rates and lead to weight loss. MCT's promote thermogenesis, which increases the body's metabolism, producing energy.
Many people with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia have found that adding coconut and coconut oil to their diet was helpful to them, too.
5. One of the best things you can use on your skin and hair is coconut oil.
Coconut oil one of the best things you can apply directly on your skin and hair. It gives temporary relief to skin problems like rashes. It aids in healing and restoring skin to a younger appearance. It has also been known to help with people who suffer from yeast infections in the skin, as well as many other skin problems.
Not only does is soften and smooth your skin, coconut oil has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from free radical damage. Coconut oil makes excellent massage oil too.
6. Coconut oil has healthy benefits that most other oils do not.
Evidence is mounting that coconut oil has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral effects when both consumed and used topically on the skin.
Most oils oxidize and turn rancid very quickly causing free radical damage in our bodies. Coconut oil is not easily oxidized and does not cause harmful free radical damage like polyunsaturated vegetable oils. Free radical damage is thought to be responsible for many ailments in our body from arthritis to increased susceptibility to cancers.
Coconut oil also helps our bodies absorb other nutrients more effectively, such as Vitamin E.
7. Coconut oil is one of the best oils you can use for cooking.
It has a higher smoke point than olive oil, which means it can take higher temperatures better. There are several healthy omega 3 oils we can choose to consume, such as flax and olive oil, but they don't do well under the high heat we use for cooking. Coconut oil can be used in higher cooking temperatures.
It is harder for coconut oil to go rancid, unlike other cooking oils, which are usually rancid long before you even bring them home. Rancid oils cause free radical damage in the body, which is a leading cause of cancer. Coconut oil is stable for over a year at room temperature.
Because of the misinformation we have been given for years, we have lost out on the healthy benefits that coconut oil has given the people of the tropics for centuries. But now it has been rediscovered! Coconut oil is so effective, it won't be long before we see coconut oil supplements promoted, but you can get the jump on the popular crowd and start consuming and cooking with coconut oil today!
With all these healthy benefits, isn't it time you gave coconut oil a try? For more free information about coconut oil, check out the website at http://Coconut-Oil-Diet.com.
By Dianne Ronnow © 2006 Mohave Publishing. All rights reserved. http:// mohavepublishing.com.
Dianne’s best selling book, "Coconut Oil Diet Secrets" reveals how thousands of people are losing weight and getting healthier with coconut oil diets. For a limited time, we are offering this ebook FREE at http://Coconut-Oil-Diet.com. Check out the site now and start losing weight today!
This article may be freely copied as long as it is not modified and this resource box accompanies the article, together with working hyperlinks.
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Virgin Coconut Oil, Oh-Virgin Coconut Oil, Poor You
By F Aziz
Virgin coconut oil started her journey a very long time ago. It was stated in an ancient book of Ayuverda, that thousands of years before century (B.C.), people exploited this oil, for consumption as well as for cure.
For people in Indonesia, Polynesia, Micronesia and other tropical parts of the world, coconut is very essential. They took advantages of its meat and water, processed it for coconut cream and coconut oil to enhance their quality of life.
And this went on for thousands of years…
Around 1945, virgin coconut oil reached its golden years. In some Asian Pacific countries, the commodity became one of the most wanted goods. Coconut water also played an important role in the World War II. It helped cure many of the injured Alliance troops. They actually used the water from coconut as a cold compress for wounds!
After the war, the Americans and English transformed virgin coconut oil into margarine. Some business-oriented parties in both countries started a campaign against this oil. They intended to stop the dependency for tropical oils. The next thing, they promoted corn oil and soybean oil for exchange…
In mid 1950’s, heart disease became a nightmare in the United States and this is the turning point of all the negative campaigns against virgin coconut oil…
The situation got worse when a young scientist named David Kritchevsky issued the results of his pre-clinic test on rabbits. The results showed that cholesterol blocked the artery and this had caused the heart disease. He claimed that corn oil and soybean oil could reduce cholesterol and coconut oil is quite the opposite.
The negative campaigns against virgin coconut oil (or should I say wrong accusations..?) went on. Those people blamed this innocent oil for something she did not do…
If you want to know the complete story of virgin coconut oil and its struggle to crush all envious claims against her, I suggest you read it at the virgin coconut oil story
Don’t worry, it’s a happy ending story…you’ll love it!
F. Aziz is the owner of http://www.all-about-Virgin-Coconut-Oil.com. Visit all-about-Virgin-Coconut-Oil.com and see how this miracle oil could amazingly help you improve your health.
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