Is coconut oil healthy? 5 lesser known reasons it might not be

Coconut oil has gained widespread popularity in recent years for its health benefits and versatile uses.

From food to skin and from hair to even mouth, the coconut oil frenzy has been ruling people’s internet feeds and uses at home.

Many advocates tout its supposed health-promoting properties, from aiding in weight loss to improving heart health.

However, the healthfulness of coconut oil is a topic of ongoing debate among health professionals and researchers.

While it’s true that coconut oil has some positive aspects, there are lesser-known reasons that suggest it might not be as healthy as it’s often claimed to be.

Here we list 5 reasons why coconut oil is not as beneficial as thought to be.

Coconut oil is rich in saturated fats, with about 82% of its fatty acid composition being saturated. Saturated fats are known to increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol. Elevated LDL levels are linked to a higher risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular issues. While some argue that the type of saturated fats in coconut oil, specifically lauric acid, may not have the same negative effects as other saturated fats, there is still concern regarding its potential impact on heart health.

Contrary to the popular belief that coconut oil can aid in weight loss, it is a calorie-dense oil. One tablespoon of coconut oil contains about 120 calories and 14 grams of fat. Consuming excess calories, even from healthy sources (adding in salads or a ‘splash’ of oil for cooking), can contribute to weight gain if not balanced with physical activity and a well-rounded diet. It’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and overall calorie intake when incorporating coconut oil into one’s diet.

While coconut oil offers certain health benefits, it lacks essential nutrients that are crucial for overall health. Unlike other oils and fats, coconut oil does not contain vitamins, minerals or fiber. Nutrient-rich oils, such as olive oil and avocado oil, provide additional health benefits due to their abundance of vitamins E and K, antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. Choosing oils that provide essential nutrients can be a more well-rounded approach to a healthy diet.

Coconut oil undergoes extensive processing and treatment before reaching our kitchens, akin to other oils, which can diminish its inherent health benefits. Refined, bleached and deodorized (RBD) coconut oil undergoes a process involving solvents and high heat, potentially leading to elevated cholesterol levels. This oil is utilized in scientific research on fat as a control substance due to its particular characteristics.

Although coconut oil has gained popularity for various health claims, the scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited compared to other dietary fats. Research on the health effects of coconut oil is ongoing, and more comprehensive studies are needed to establish conclusive evidence regarding its impact on heart health, weight management, and other health aspects. Relying on scientific consensus and well-established research is crucial when making informed decisions about dietary choices.