COCONUT OIL
While discussing our last topic on natural sweeteners we began to touch on the many benefits of coconut oil. I felt compelled to dedicate a full topic discussing the numerous benefits of coconut oil. Before I get into these benefits I feel it is very important that you know the importance of choosing the right one. Coconut oil is divided into two main categories RBD which stands for (refined, bleached, deodorized) and the other is virgin (unrefined) or VCO (virgin coconut oil). RBD is made through a sun drying process of copra (the kernel or meat of the coconut) making it a lower quality of the oil. Using this refined coconut oil on the skin and hair will clog the pores and cause buildup on the hair and scalp. It will also burn with the high heat of cooking. To get the full benefits of the coconut oil, it needs to be “VIRGIN”. This is made from fresh coconuts and extracted in many different ways without the use of high temperatures, therefore producing the most natural form of the oil. Because of the high demand for coconut oil some manufacturers reprocess the copra (refined oil) and label it organic, making false claims of its purity. So, I believe it is necessary to test it even if the label reads organic or virgin. A good coconut oil is very fine, feels more like a wax, and will melt in your hands very quickly from body heat alone. It will also solidify quickly as well. Good coconut oil will also smell and taste just like coconut. Remember that anything that is put on your skin will get into your bloodstream. So, one way to look at this is; if you can’t eat it, don’t put it on your skin.
For years coconut oil has been given a bad rap due to the high levels of saturated fat contents, but research has shown that not all saturated fats are alike and coconut oil is unique in its structural make-up. To learn more about these studies go to http://www.coconut-connections.com/ Coconut oil has many uses such as; hair care ,skin care, stress relief, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, weight loss, immunity booster, proper digestion and metabolism, kidney problem relief, heart disease, high blood pressure, etc. For more information on the benefits go to http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/organic-coconut-oil/health-benefits-of-coconut-oil.html
We have been using coconut in our house for a while now. We get it from the organic market in large containers. If you’re wondering what the difference between virgin and extra virgin is when it comes to coconut oil, well, from my research it seems to be just a manufacturers labeling preference and not an official classification of the product, as in olive oil. Even though a good quality coconut oil may be a little more expensive, I weigh the benefits. While maintaining good health is priceless, I also recognize that I actually save money by using one product to cover so many areas of achieving my ultimate health goal. Please tell me what you think about coconut oil?