What Is Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil is edible oil made from pressing the meat inside coconuts. It’s solid at room temperature and liquid when heated. There are two types: virgin and refined.� Virgin coconut oil uses fresh meat, while refined oil uses dried coconut meat, also called copra.

This plant-based oil is used as a cooking fat. It’s also a common and effective moisturizing ingredient in lotions and hair care products.

As a food ingredient, coconut oil has been marketed as having several health benefits, including helping with weight loss and preventing dementia. But many scientists say there’s not enough scientific evidence for these claims. Coconut oil is high in saturated fat, which the American Heart Association says can raise your� cholesterol levels� and your risk of heart disease.

Coconut Oil Benefits

Coconut oil for weight loss

The MCTs in coconut oil are easily converted to energy instead of being stored in your body as fat. In theory, this could help you feel full and aid in� weight loss.� 

Coconut oil and brain function

Scientists think that the brain cells of people with Alzheimer’s disease can’t properly use glucose for energy.� 

Coconut oil for teeth

Oil pulling is when you swish coconut oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes and then spit it out. You can do it daily, but don’t stop brushing your teeth.