Over the last few years the health benefits of coconut oil have become increasingly well know. You can buy coconut water almost anywhere. Many people put dried coconut flakes on their breakfast food. Some people have even replaced all-purpose flour with coconut flour. Curried coconut chicken is just one of a number of popular dishes that include coconut. People are finally learning what hardcore coconut fans have known for years – that these tropical seeds not only taste good, but they are good for you, particularly when it is in the form of coconut oil.

How Does Coconut Oil Work?

Just like milk and other dairy products, coconut oil contains fatty acids that are good for the body. These fatty acids are known as medium-chain triglycerides, which LiveStrong and other sources rave about.

This kind of fat contained in coconut oil runs through the system quickly and is converted to energy, rather than being stored and accumulating in the body.

Coconut oil also is very effective in treating viruses and reducing bacteria due to the high amount of caprylic acid. Coconut oil can have a lot of unexpected health benefits thanks to the high amount of iron, vitamin E, and vitamin K that it contains.

8 Key Health Benefits of Coconut Oil:

1.) Cures Constipation

Because coconut oil is high in fiber, it boosts the metabolism and has been one of the most effective home remedies used to relieve constipation. According to LiveStrong, you should mix half of a teaspoon of virgin coconut oil (you can get it right here) in a glass filled with 100% natural juice. If you drink the whole thing about half an hour before each meal, it should fix the problem.

2.) Heal Yeast Infections

The acids contained in coconut oil naturally fight yeast infections. Because it is a medium-chain fatty acid, coconut oil kills viruses, bacteria and yeast. Dr. Bruce Fife, president of the Coconut Research Center suggests here that those who experience frequent yeast infections should take four tablespoons of organic extra virgin coconut oil every day.

3.) Increased Metabolism

The medium-chain fatty acids contained in coconut oil can greatly boost the metabolism. Dr. John Dempster wrote in the Huffington Post that coconut oil, when nonhydrogenerated, can cause the body to burn additional fat. Weirdly enough, Dr. Dempster points out that in order to lose fat, you must eat fat.

4.) Protection from Sunburn

What you consume can influence how often you get sunburns and how severe they are. Wellness Mama reports that consuming a lot of healthy fats acts as a sort of natural suntan lotion. If you drink a blend of melted coconut oil with herbal tea, you can rejuvenate your skin and protect yourself from burns.

5.) Improve Thyroid Function

According to Prevent Disease, thyroid problems are often caused by issues in the immune system. This condition can lead to an unbalanced thyroid if not maintained carefully. Coconut oil is very beneficial for the thyroid because it decreases inflammation and it helps to regulate the immune system. If you maintain a healthy diet and get regular exercise, taking coconut oil will keep your thyroid working properly.

6.) Reduces Acne & Breakouts

When skin glands are infected by bacteria, acne forms. It doesn’t take long for those infections to become inflamed, which causes unsightly acne. Coconut oil is effective at stopping the formation of acne because of its inherent anti-inflammatory propertied. According to Organic Facts, coconut oil should both be ingested and applied to the skin for maximum results.

7.) Treats Eczema & Skin Conditions

The National Eczema Association posted a personal story that showed how organic virgin coconut oil (which you can get here) can change the lives of children and adults who are dealing with eczema, dermatitis, and other similar skin issues. Coconut oil is easy to apply and needs very little rubbing to be effective. Because it is a natural product, it almost never causes any side effects or reactions.

8.) Treat Sinus Infections & Relieve Allergy Symptoms

Putting coconut oil in your nose might sound weird, but it is very effective at helping people deal with allergies and sinus problems. Earth Clinic points out that because it is a natural antibiotic, coconut oil can work when ingested or used as a nasal rinse. To create the nasal rinse, you should mix liquid coconut oil with baking soda or salt and purified water. Put the mix into a dropper or a neti pot and apply carefully.

Coconut oil really does have a lot of beneficial properties. There is no reason not to add it to your diet. Coconut Mama advises that you try using it in the place of butter or oil when you fry food. You can also use it in place of shortening or margarine when you are baking.

If you’d like to try some coconut oil, you can buy it right here.

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