Coconut oil is appreciated for its nourishing, moisturizing and protective benefits. Rich in anti-microbial and antibacterial properties, this oil is a real ally every day. In diet or cosmetic use, here are 10 uses and benefits of coconut oil on your health.
Vitamins and energy in coconut oil
Coconut oil has a high content of medium chain fatty acids, called medium triglycerides (MCTs). These are good fats that help hydrate, repair and be easily absorbed by the body.
Among these saturated fatty acids, lauric acid or N-dodecanoic acid is mainly found. It has very effective anti-microbial properties to take care of the skin and hair. In addition, this acid has the property of helping to lower the level of bad cholesterol in the blood.
This oil is also rich in:
- Palmitic acid, a constituent of the epidermis,
- Capric and caprylic acids, with antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties,
- Linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid of the omega-6 family,
- Vitamins A, which helps cell reproduction and promotes hydration of the skin,
- Vitamins E, a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells of the epidermis.
The different uses of coconut oil
The saturated fatty acids contained in coconut oil are very interesting from a cosmetic point of view, but also food. Its many virtues make it a product that can be used in many ways.
Coconut oil is obtained by pressing fresh coconut nuts using a traditional process. Be careful not to confuse coconut oil with coconut oil. The latter is obtained by pressing the coconut dried in the sun. It requires refining and has a strong smell.
In food or cosmetic use, this oil is a real ally in everyday life. Here are 10 uses and benefits of coconut oil on your health, body, and beauty:
The virtues of coconut oil in your diet
1. Replace fat in the kitchen
Coconut oil is recommended for cooking. Unlike other vegetable oils, such as rapeseed oil or walnut oil, it does not deteriorate under heat, retains its virtues and does not become toxic.
It allows food not to stick in the pan. It also behaves like a binder in some recipes, like those in home-made no-cook cereal bars.
Coconut oil can also replace some oils in your cake preparations or other sweet recipes. Pleasant to taste, you can also spread it on your sandwiches from breakfast to butter (ideal for vegans). It's also a healthy alternative for jumping, baking, grilling or braising your food.
2. Promotes digestion
Coconut oil has a high content of antibacterial agents, which help fight against intestinal infections and microorganisms incriminated in certain digestive disorders.
Rich in TCM, fatty acids with a medium triglyceride chain, it is one of the easy-to-digest foods. It also promotes the increase of probiotic production in the digestive system.
3. Increases energy and stamina
Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) of coconut oil are an excellent source of energy.
Consumed in the morning, it brings vigor and energy for the whole day. It is also ideal for athletes because it improves endurance and speeds recovery after physical activity.
4. Its effects on the cardiac system
Studies by ANSES (National Agency for Food Safety, Environment and Labor) have shown that there are several types of saturated fatty acids, including the "medium-chain" present in the diet. coconut oil. These fatty acids are better assimilated by our body and are not stored.
According to ANSES, there is no link between the saturated fatty acids of coconut oil and cardiovascular diseases. Coconut oil is much less bad than other saturated fats or even butter. It does not cause residues that can clog the arteries.
>> L'Anse recommendation for the consumption of coconut oil: Like all saturated fatty acids, it is dangerous to eat them to excess. ANSES recommends not to consume more than 10% of the energy intake of saturated fatty acids per day.
5. Cleansing and nourishing effects on the skin
Coconut oil has powerful antibacterial, soothing, healing and moisturizing properties. It is very effective at regenerating, treating and relieving skin imperfections.
Used daily, coconut oil is an effective cleanser to remove makeup and impurities of the day. It is also a great way to soften and moisturize dry, rough or damaged skin.
It reduces the itching, pain, plaque and dryness associated with skin diseases such as eczema.
Its antioxidant properties help fight against aging skin. Apply coconut oil on wrinkles, to reduce and rehydrate your skin.
>> Tip: It is recommended to avoid applying coconut oil to the face if you have oily skin or problem skin.
6. Strengthens and whitens teeth
As a substitute for toothpaste or as a mouthwash, coconut oil helps reduce plaque, whiten and strengthen teeth.
A truly natural alternative, healthy and antibacterial, it eliminates toxins without damaging the teeth or gums.
Prepare a homemade toothpaste by mixing equal amounts of coconut oil and baking soda. Then add a few drops of peppermint essential oil.
In mouthwash, use it for 10 minutes, then spit it out. If you swallow it, do not worry, coconut oil is edible.
7. Attenuates stretch marks and cracks
Coconut oil has a strong moisturizing power, which allows to soften and deeply rehydrate the skin tissue. It is very effective in reducing stretch marks due to pregnancy or weight loss. Remember to apply it as a preventive measure.
It is also very effective for chapped lips. Apply as a lip balm.
8. Moisturizes and strengthens the hair
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a saturated fatty acid, which helps moisturize and strengthen your hair. It penetrates the scalp and nourishes the hair fiber to give shine and resistance.
Once a week, apply a mask with coconut oil on dry hair. Wrap them in a warm towel and leave between 30 minutes and 1 hour, before rinsing and shampooing.
This oil is also effective as a dandruff product. Massage your scalp with coconut oil to eliminate dandruff and itching.
9. Heals fevers
Its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal actions help neutralize fevers.
Apply the coconut oil as soon as the pimples appear. To speed up the treatment, you can add 1 drop of oregano essential oil.
10. Brings well-being and relaxation to massage oil
Coconut oil soothes and relaxes tired and sore muscles.
Highly used in Ayurvedic medicine, coconut oil provides relaxation of the muscles and hydration of the skin. In massage oil, it gives off an odor that brings a feeling of well-being and relaxation.
How to choose your oil?
To ensure maximum virtues and benefits, it is recommended to choose a virgin organic coconut oil and first cold pressed.
Read the label carefully to avoid hydrogenated and refined oils, which contain sulfites, a component dangerous to health and skin.
Be sure to get a homemade virgin coconut oil made from the milk pulp of the fruit. Ingredients should not mention any chemicals.
It is stored in a dry place and protected from light.
Where to get coconut oil?
It can easily be purchased in grocery stores, organic stores or on the Internet.
Economical and deliciously scented, coconut oil has many benefits. Much more than a beauty ally, coconut oil is also good for your health. Do not hesitate to use it!
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