When trying to lose weight, oil is usually the last thing you want to increase your consumption. However, coconut oil is a definite exception to this rule of weight loss. Extracted from none other than the seed of the coconut, coconut oil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for an array of ailments and to promote the overall health of the body.
fat loss
Instead of slowly rotting away in your body’s fat stores, this oil is actually very easily burned by the body and it also helps burn other fatty tissues in the body. This is due to the fact that it is composed of medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) rather than long chain fatty acids (LCFAs) as are most oils. This means that coconut oil is easily absorbed in the liver and used as fuel. Apart from this, it also helps in burning stubborn LCFAs, when the liver is overworked due to toxins, trans fats, sugars, alcohol, drugs, etc., it becomes sluggish and thus, does not metabolize fats properly. Can’t metabolize. Once it gets your liver running more efficiently, it actually jumpstarts your metabolism and thus, boosts your fat loss. It is especially effective in problem areas such as the abdomen, where non-metabolized fat is known to reside. What’s more, it is also said to stabilize glucose levels which also promotes weight loss as a stable glucose level makes it easier to make healthy food choices rather than quick fixes of high sugar and fat junk food.
Promotes thermogenesis – Coconut oil may also increase thermogenesis, or heat, or the amount of calories your body burns during digestion. It definitely helps the body to lose belly fat faster, and also reduce fat in other areas of the body. It is actually said to be more thermogenic than protein, with the opposite usually true for edible oils.
other benefits
Fights Aging – Due to the fact that it is rich in antioxidants, coconut oil is also said to have some anti-aging benefits.
Strengthens the Immune System – Due to high levels of capric, lauric and caprylic acids as well as antimicrobial lipids, it has antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties.
Hair and Skin- Since coconut oil contains some essential proteins, it can be used as a natural moisturizer for hair and skin. If massaged into the scalp regularly, it can help prevent dandruff as well as lice. It can also be an effective treatment against damaged and hair fall.
coconut oil diet
Interestingly enough, although it is commonly referred to as the “coconut oil diet,” it is not actually a diet, (in the customary sense of the word). The basis of the coconut oil diet involves swapping fats such as vegetable oil, lard, etc., for this oil. This is to say that you will be using coconut oil as your primary oil for cooking, frying and baking. You can also add it to your morning smoothie or shake if you don’t use the oil often for cooking, or just want to add it as an added supplement. This diet was known to help in losing pounds and pounds of belly fat fairly quickly.
overall
Remember that there is no such thing as a miracle worker when it comes to losing weight, and especially that stubborn belly fat. Remember to consult your doctor or health advisor if you choose to implement the coconut diet, although there are very few known side effects your doctor may have some important ingredients for your personal health.
Also, while coconut oil is not a miracle worker, it is more effective when used along with an overall balanced diet as well as an exercise plan.