The historical significance of the coconut and the oil extracted from it has been the source of numerous studies and research. The fact that the coconut has been proven to be beneficial to our health cannot be overstated. The nutritional value of coconut oil, however, is just as important. Let’s examine the reasons why.

Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids, which means when the oil is consumed as part of a diet regimen, it is rapidly turned into an energy source and not body fat. This process allows for weight loss since one becomes fully sated after each meal.

Coconut oil also plays a role in digestion. Studies indicate that because this oil can be easily absorbed, it is primarily utilized for individuals who have problems digesting foods. The oil also allows for the absorption of minerals which is vital to the elderly in decreasing the rapidity of degeneration. In addition, because coconut oil absorbs calcium and magnesium, it is used for infants who are malnourished.

Studies performed among Polynesians assert that when coconut oil is consumed as part of their normal diet, they have less risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Moreover, their cholesterol levels were dramatically reduced.

Coconut oil has also been touted as supporting the immune system since it contains the medium chain fatty acids which consist of saturated fats. These fats allow for the antioxidants to remain intact whereas unsaturated oils are said to quickly break down vitamins essential to one’s health. This is especially effective in the treatment of HIV/AIDS patients.

Research into coconut oil and cancer has yielded significant results. It shows that unsaturated fats play a role in the advancement of colon and breast cancer, whereas saturated fats decrease the incidence by a wide margin.

While researching the effect of vegetable oil, results have determined that it can cause disease and increase the aging process. However, coconut oil can be used as an alternative method in reducing the amount of hydrogenated and polyunsaturated oils that can cause these diseases from the outset.

Finally, we know that coconut oil has an anti-microbial agent. The lauric acid in coconut oil allows for the anti-microbial agent to exist, unlike other oils available today. While coconut oil contains the medium chain fatty acids, so does breast milk. Thus, when coconut oil is added to a mother’s diet, it effectively helps protect the infant from developing bacterial infections.

Coconut oil has been recognized as one of the most formidable dietary oils for centuries, with a high nutritional value. It cannot be denied, then, that this oil has helped decrease the incidence of disease and has proven to be among the most effective medicinal cures nature can provide.