Coconut oil is undoubtedly one of the best oils in the world, as its benefits are endless. It’s good for your hair, skin, health, food…everything! From its antibacterial properties to its fat-burning abilities, the benefits of coconut oil are a million and one. Surely, this is one reason researchers are touting it as a wonder food, and we can’t help but agree.
If there’s one oil to befriend this winter, or in any season for that matter, it should definitely be coconut oil. Considering that the climate is harsher now, and most skins are more susceptible to drying out, coconut oil is a quick way to moisturize. In addition to that, this nature’s wonder will also lock in moisture. That is to say, it’ll give you a deep moisturizing and also ensure all that moisture stays in. There’re several other benefits of coconut oil for you beyond its “water-bending” abilities. I bet that after reading this article, you too would be jumping on the coconut oil train.
Check out 11 benefits of coconut oil that help your entire existence, no jokes…
#1. It is good for your hair
Certain components of coconut oil keep the hair strong, nourished, and protected from free radicals while supporting hair growth, volume, and shine without the common harmful chemicals. In order words, this magic in a bottle gives your hair all the nutrients it needs minus the chemicals found in most other hair care products. If you needed a reason to turn to nature, this is it.
#2. Coconut oil is a skin remedy
You’ve probably heard this before. The topical application of coconut oil is effective in the treatment of fungal and bacterial skin infections. Plus, coconut oil absorbs transdermally (through the skin), hence, it also makes for a great moisturizer. What’s more, its ability to reduce inflammation can minimize the aging of your skin cells.
#3. It’s a great source of energy
Coconut oil contains a type of saturated fat called medium-chain triglycerides which are more rapidly absorbed and utilized by the body’s cells. This means your cells’ mitochondria can produce more energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate or ATP. And more cellular energy means that you have more energy all over, too. So go ahead and cook every other meal with it instead.
#4. Coconut oil helps you burn more fat
With coconut oil, more ATP is produced than normal and this, in turn, increases the body’s ability to burn more fat as fuel (a process called thermogenesis). Plus, medium-chain triglycerides are also less likely to be stored as fat deposits.
#5. Strengthens your immune system
The lauric acid and caprylic acid found in coconut oil have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties which can help boost your immune system. Research conducted on mice showed that coconut oil reduced the number of free radicals (a marker of stress, which can decrease your immune system) in the mice when they were placed in stressful situations. Yup, maybe all you need is to increase your consumption of this oil.
#6. Great for your heart and prevents Alzheimer’s
While coconut oil could raise LDL (aka, “bad” cholesterol), it also raises HDL (aka, “good” cholesterol). It may also help to improve overall heart health and lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Medium-chain triglycerides have been known to aid the improvement of cognitive abilities in Alzheimer’s patients. You guessed right! This miracle oil is very rich in medium-chain triglycerides.
#7. It’s a good aftershave
Another benefit of coconut oil is its smoothing, soothing, and antibacterial protection for those little nicks! So, after your next shave, why not apply a good dose of coconut oil to help your skin heal and stay protected?
#8. Good for cleaning wooden furniture
Need a furniture polish that’s not toxic? Look no further! The best part is that it replenishes dry wood, prolongs the life of the furniture, and can even be used for cleaning wooden cooking utensils. What can’t this oil do?
#9. Boosts testosterone levels
Coconut oil contains 92-96% saturated fat, and this is the type of fat that can help boost your testosterone levels. Evidence has also shown that it prevents oxidative stress in testicles due to its high antioxidant properties.
#10. Tastes great, yum
If you love to cook or want to impress anyone with your culinary skills, use this oil to replace butter. It’s a good source of essential fatty acids, brain-boosting nutrients, and organic fiber, as well as protein. This is especially important for those seeking a perfect for a perfect alternative to dairy-based options.
#11. It can be used for repairs and maintenance
Coconut oil can be used as a lubricant on stuck zippers, small motors, as well as on all your squeaky hinges around the house. Plus, because it is edible, you don’t need to worry about children putting it in their mouths. Phew!
Featured image: robertprzybysz/iStock
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