Coconut oil and weight loss
Proponents of coconut oil and weight loss say that the high fat content of coconut oil can paradoxically help you lose weight. However, the few research studies that have specifically examined coconut oil — or the type of fatty acids it contains — have shown mixed results for weight loss.
Coconut oil is a tropical vegetable oil that’s made from the dried fruit (nut) of the coconut palm tree. Coconut oil consists largely of a certain type of saturated fatty acid. One tablespoon of coconut oil contains 117 calories and 13.6 grams of fat.
Supporters of coconut oil and weight loss say that despite its high calorie and fat content, coconut oil boosts your metabolism, gives you energy, makes you feel more full and improves your thyroid function. They say that the type of fatty acid in coconut oil is a healthy one, and that your body quickly burns it for energy.
A coconut oil diet or coconut diet typically suggests eating as much as 3 tablespoons of pure coconut oil a day or substituting it for other oils and fats normally used in cooking or baking. Some coconut oil diets also suggest that you eat a diet that’s low in carbohydrates, while other coconut oil diets require you to work your way through several stages, including carbohydrate restriction and colon cleansing.
Although eating coconut oil in moderation for a short-term diet probably won’t harm your health, it may not help you lose weight. And keep in mind that coconut oil actually has more saturated fat than do butter and lard. For successful, long-term weight loss, stick to the basics — an overall healthy-eating plan and exercise.
