Healthy Bits · Nutrition & wellness
Coconut oil
Coconut oil had a big moment as a health food, and the truth sits somewhere in the middle. It's high in saturated fat, which major heart health groups suggest keeping moderate. Some of that fat is medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which the body uses a little differently from other fats. Research on coconut oil and heart health is mixed.
My take: enjoy it as one of several fats, not the only one.
- Use virgin coconut oil for medium-heat cooking and baking, where its flavor shines
- Rotate with extra virgin olive oil and avocado oil
- Try it outside the kitchen, too, as a simple moisturizer for dry skin or a gentle makeup remover
Try this: roast sweet potato cubes in a tablespoon of coconut oil with cinnamon and a pinch of sea salt.
- coconut
- healthy fats
- natural beauty
Healthy Bits are for general education and aren’t medical advice. Check with your doctor or healthcare provider before making changes, especially if you’re pregnant or nursing, take medication, or are managing a health condition.