Can Coconut Oil Help With Weight Loss?

Coconut and weight loss, well in fact what we are talking about is coconut oil, and its the properties in coconut oil that have all the purported weight loss benefits. Various studies have been conducted into coconut oil’s active ingredients. Ironically it is the fat in coconut oil that helps with weight loss. What people sometimes forget is the fact not all fats are bad. Some fad diets like low carb, or low fat don’t necessarily work that well either. Also your body needs fats. How much fat, is dependent on various factors which is beyond the scope of this article. However, what we can tell you is that coconut oil is a saturated fat, but the way your body processes it is different to that of other saturated fats,  or simply – fats in general. So you shouldn’t actually skip on fats, but you should have some understand of which fats are good and bad. What most people are concerned with is, does coconut oil actually  help with weight loss, and what other health benefits can it provide us?

Coconut oil contains fats which are known as medium chain fatty acids or (MCT’s) which are actually medium chain triglycerides. Triglycerides are fats, but with respect to coconut oil, these fats burn up faster in the body and thus, help to increase metabolism. The molecular format of coconut oil is different, with respect to the chain length being shorter. The bodily process which burns up fat from stored energy called thermogenesis, the process which MCT’s are supposed to work on the human body are that in helps in fat oxidation and provides you with more energy.

You can consume this oil directly, or use it in replacement for other oils, which are long chain triglycerides, (LCT’s). These fats get stored more easily by the body and are more likely to result in weight gain.  Which you probably don’t want! Your body will actually burn up the shorter molecular version of these fats faster which in turn raises metabolism and heat (your body’s natural furnace).

There are some oxymoron type tidbits from intake of coconut oil, one that it is a saturated fat and other that intake of such fats will make you fatter. Indigenous people of tropical islands where consumption of coconut oil in their diets is popular are all shown to have healthy heart, skin and toned physiques. This particular fat helps you burn calories faster.

Coconut Oil Benefits and Facts

• Medium chain triglyceride.
• Helps raise thermogenesis (body heat).
• Helps to regulate thyroid function.
• Raises metabolism.
• Helps skin conditions.
• Helps with a healthy heart.
• Can aid weight loss.

How Can I Take Coconut Oil?

You can purchase coconut oil at local health stores or online. Sometimes it is sold as extra virgin coconut oil. You can use it as a direct replacement for your existing oils, and use it in salad dressings for example.  If you are looking to lose weight with coconut oil, then you should be aware it is a saturated fat. However this does not mean that coconut oil is not effective in weight loss. Coconut oil can also be taken in capsule format.