Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Benefits Weight Loss Programs

By Karina Frost


Many weight-reduction plans are unhealthy, as are many products sold to speed up the process. However, dieters can avoid overly-strict calorie restriction and expensive stimulants which purport to speed up metabolism and fat burning. Extra virgin coconut oil benefits weight loss and maintains health.

Those who believe that fat is something to avoid while reducing might be surprised to learn that healthy oils can accelerate the burning of stored fat in the body. Coconuts also contain many nutrients. For example, the liquid, or water, of a fresh, young nut has all electrolytes needed by humans, as well as many trace minerals that are lacking in the average American diet.

Young coconuts have a jelly-like substance around the inner husk and a large quantity of 'water'. The pale green husk turns brown when the nut is mature, the jelly turns to firm, white meat, and the liquid diminishes. Both types of nut are nutritious. Coconut milk is made from the white meat of mature nuts. Oil is pressed from the meat in high-quality brands or extracted by chemical solvents in those of lesser quality.

This oil has other properties, as well. Research - as well as centuries of experience in Asian and island cultures - has shown that it is antibacterial and antiviral and boosts the immune system in general. The meat contains both protein and fiber in significant quantities. Although the oil contains neither, it is made up of medium-chain triglycerides, which are valuable and hard to find in other foods.

This quick conversion of medium-chain triglycerides to energy means that people on restricted-calorie regimes can still feel good. The fats keep blood sugar levels steady, preventing the 'crash' that triggers a desire to eat sugary or greasy foods. They also curb hunger in general and provide the energy needed to exercise, an important part of a weight-loss plan. Exercising speeds up metabolism, tones muscles, increases circulation, and promotes deep breathing, all of which are necessary for optimum health.

Cutting out refined foods, which often have altered and therefore unhealthy vegetable fats, and high-carbohydrate sweets and baked goods is key to dieting success. Adding the good fat content of coconuts helps curb appetite, enhance thermogenesis (fat-burning), and cut the misery of not eating your favorite foods while reducing calorie intake.

Some oils are derived from coconuts but extracted by solvents, deodorized (to disguise rancidity), bleached, and preserved with additives. All of this is harmful to the nutritional value. Choose a good brand that is extra-virgin and organic to ensure you get the maximum benefits. Many find their skin looks better as chronic problems like eczema and psoriasis diminish, their digestion is improved, and their hair is glossier and more abundant. Cholesterol levels often go down and thyroid function is improved.

A good product comes from a reputable company, is naturally white, and smells life real coconuts. It tastes great, too, melting in your mouth so it's pleasant to take by the spoonful. It's also great for cooking and baking.




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