Can I Use Coconut Oil for Cooking? What Are the Benefits?

Coconut oil?is a heart-healthy alternative to oils rich in fat. It is a plant-based oil that can be used for sautéing, searing, and low-heat frying, depending on your recipe needs. When it comes to baking, coconut oil?is also a better and healthier substitution for butter. However, because coconut oil is rich in saturated fat, it is recommended to use only 28 grams (2 tablespoons) of the plant-derived oil in a day. Some benefits of coconut oil?are given below:

1.?Improves Oral Health

Several studies have found that mouthwash comprising coconut oil?can help in healing periodontal diseases. Coconut oil is rich in antibacterial MCFAs. Thus, swishing coconut oil denatures the bacteria, sticks to it, and brings the disease-causing germs out of the mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

2.?Helps in Weight Loss

Did you know that coconut oil?has energy-creating abilities? When consumed, the lauric acid in coconut oil?travels to the liver and converts it into energy instead of converting it into fats. This improves metabolism and promotes weight loss. Furthermore, coconut oil?has 65% of MCT (medium-chain triglycerides), which increases the number of calories that you burn.

3.?Improves Hair and Skin Health

Coconut oil?provides protection against hair damage. According to a study, coconut oil deeply penetrates your hair strands when applied, increasing its strength and making them more flexible.

In addition to this, due to its antioxidant properties, coconut oil?is widely used in cosmetic products to improve the appearance and health of your skin. Research?has proved that coconut oil?can be used to boost moisture content in dry skin, help prevent excessive water loss, and protect your skin from infectious agents like allergens and chemicals.?

Wrapping It Up!

Coconut oil?is a kitchen staple for many healthy?people. Whether used in solid or liquid form, coconut oil?adds a delicious taste and unique texture to your everyday meals.