Coconut oil’s popularity is increasing day by day. Whilst there are many articles and statements in the web claiming this product to be one of the miraculous foods available today, there are still those who beg the different. In this midst of arguments and discussions, myths are born, some true and some false. These myths have become so popular that, people believe each and every one of them, even if it is a false one. Therefore, to prepare ourselves better, we need to search for the truth and this article aims to achieve just that.
Myth #1: As coconut oil is predominantly composed of saturated fats, it raises cholesterol levels and is not good for the heart.
Fact: Yes, it is true that it does contain saturated fats but that does not mean that it affects the human heart unlike what many believe. When people hear oil, they think that it is bad for the health. However, that’s not the case. First, you need to understand that there are two types of cholesterol: bad and good and the good one is something that your body requires. Coconut oil helps in raising the good cholesterol which helps lower bad cholesterol and in fact clears the blockages in the arteries connected directly to the heart. In addition to this, researchers have not found conclusive evidence that saturated fats raises the bad cholesterol levels in any way.
Myth #2: Only Virgin Coconut Oil is healthy – Refined is bad for you
Fact: That’s incorrect because all coconut oil types found in the market today are healthy. This myth is prevalent because of the saturated fat bias that has spread through uncontrolled and untested marketing strategies. Most people think that saturated fat is bad – somehow from these marketing and presume that virgin oils are free from these fats and refined are not. However, all coconut oils have medium chain fatty acids that are present in all products. These fatty acids do not break down when heated and are actually good for health. Also, there is no difference between ‘virgin’ and ‘extra virgin’.
Myth #3: Coconut oil is good for the skin
Fact: Now, this is true it is indeed good for the skin – mostly when applied directly. It helps in retaining the moisture in the skin, gets rids of the rashes and promotes a more lively skin. Upon eating, the anti-oxidants in the oil can help combat skin complications like infections to some extent. Though, you have to remember to use it in an appropriate quantity.
Myth #4: It is bad for metabolism as it thick and not absorbed easily
Fact: Many people think that coconut oil is thick because in colder temperatures, this particular oil condenses. Due to this belief, people say that it is not absorbed easily in the body and is bad for metabolism, but this is entirely false. Coconut oil does condense in lower temperatures but that does not mean that it is thick, sticky or greasy. That’s just its physical property. In reality, this oil is good for metabolism processes because it acts as a catalyst for absorbing various nutrients.
These are the top 4 myths of coconut oil that is mostly found in our society. Now, you know the fact behinds these myths. So, spread the actual information to other people and stay away from these kinds of myths in the future.