Coconut oil and weight loss: Does it work?
Coconut oil has been touted by some as a way to lose weight. Proponents of coconut oil and weight loss claim that coconut oil can boost energy, provide a feeling of fullness, and decrease cravings for carbohydrates and sweets. However, to date, there are no clinical trials to show that coconut oil is effective for weight loss. In fact, some researchers suspect that coconut oil may actually contribute to weight gain. One tablespoon of coconut oil contains nearly 120 calories and more than 13 grams of fat. Gram for gram, coconut oil has 10 times more unhealthy saturated fat than does olive oil. If you’re hoping to lose weight, remember that there’s no replacement for a healthy lifestyle. The foundation of every successful weight-loss program is a healthy diet and regular physical activity. To lose weight and keep it off permanently, enjoy a variety of healthier foods and include physical activity in your daily routine. Next questionVitamin B-12 injections for weight loss: Do they work?
Proponents of coconut oil and weight loss say that the high fat content of coconut oil can paradoxically help you lose weight. However, the few research studies that have specifically examined coconut oil — or the type of fatty acids it contains — have shown mixed results for weight loss. Coconut oil is a tropical vegetable oil that’s made from the dried fruit (nut) of the coconut palm tree. Coconut oil consists largely of a certain type of saturated fatty acid. One tablespoon of coconut oil contains 117 calories and 13.6 grams of fat. Supporters of coconut oil and weight loss say that despite its high calorie and fat content, coconut oil boosts your metabolism, gives you energy, makes you feel more full and improves your thyroid function. They say that the type of fatty acid in coconut oil is a healthy one, and that your body quickly burns it for energy. A coconut oil diet or coconut diet typically suggests eating as much as 3 tablespoons of pure coconut oil a day or substituting it f
