Why you need coconut oil for better health

[Danny Solano Alvarez]

In many places around the world, this remedy has been used to treat countless maladies, from digestive problems to allergies to skin issues, while at the same time improving conditions in diabetes and Alzheimer's, increasing energy and boosting metabolism.

It's not a miracle cure, nor a pharmaceutical breakthrough. Rather, it is simple coconut oil.

Coconut oil's popularity in the Western world has snowballed in recent years. However, in many regions, its medicinal and health benefits are ancient history. In the South Pacific islands, organic coconut oil has been used for thousands of years. Coconut oil is being proclaimed a major superfood as well as a super beauty aid; and given that it can be consumed by all ages, it appears to be a necessary addition to anyone's diet.

How is coconut oil better than other cooking oils?

Edible coconut oil is extracted from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts. Coconut oil contains saturated fats, but they are what are called medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), that are more easily digested by our bodies, so they do not get stored as fat. Our body metabolizes these fats in the liver, directly converting them into energy (fuel for the brain and muscle function). As well, almost 50 percent of the fat in coconut oil is made of lauric acid, which is converted in your body to "monolaurin," a fatty acid with antibacterial, antiviral, and antiprotozoal properties.

Other cooking oils – corn, soy, safflower, sunflower and canola – while perceived as healthy since they come from vegetables or plants, are actually loaded with omega-6 fats or polyunsaturated fats. Additionally, when these oils are heated, their antioxidants become damaged and oxidized, which in turn add more toxins to your body. Even extra-virgin olive oil can be problematic when heated to certain temperatures, because its chemical structure also makes it susceptible to oxidization.

How to choose the right coconut oil

The best coconut oil is organic, extra virgin, made from fresh coconuts, and is cold-processed. Cold-processing keeps the oil's nutrients intact while leaving out harmful additives and solvents. Some commercial coconut oils are refined, bleached, and deodorized, which removes the oil's beneficial nutrients, and processed or partially hydrogenated coconut oil is just as bad for you as any other processed fat.

Do note, however, that on the rare occasion, there are some people who are allergic to coconut oil. If allergic symptoms occur, the person should seek medical help.

Read here about the Top 10 Benefits of Coconut Oil.

Other resources:

http://wellnessmama.com/5734/101-uses-for-coconut-oil/

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-9178/17-beauty-uses-for-coconut-oil-...

http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/surprising-health-benefits-coconut-oil

Coconuts certainly grow abundantly in Costa Rica. Organic extra-virgin coconut oil is being produced in many places throughout the country. Coconut Water, also widely consumed in Costa Rica, especially along the coasts, is also packed full of beneficial minerals. This sweet fluid is known for its high electrolyte content, making it a perfect natural alternative to sports drinks. Seasick, dehydrated, too much sun? Coconut water will revive you instantly.

Visit Costa Rica with Costa Rica Special Deals, a dependable online travel service based in Costa Rica, and get nature's super health foods of coconut oil and coconut water fresh. Costa Rica Special Deals will help you with where to go, what to do, and where to stay in Costa Rica.

By Shannon Farley