Coconut oil

Cocos nucifera

Main active constituents

Water-soluble dietary fiber, lauric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, and medium chain triglycerides (MCTs)

Physiological Effects

Coconut oil is used as a topical moisturizer, in body and hair care products, as a medium heat cooking oil, in oil pulling for oral health, and in medicine, as it is rich in lauric acid and medium chain triglycerides.

Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) are a special type of saturated fat which have a shorter molecular chain. MCTs are often isolated from coconut oil, resulting in a liquid oil at room temperature as compared to whole coconut oil that is solid at room temperature. Unlike most dietary fats, which are long chain triglycerides, MCTs do not require additional metabolism steps, such as the intestinal lymphatic system or bile salt emulsion to be absorbed, and can directly enter the circulation of blood from the intestine to the liver. This allows MCTs to be more quickly absorbed and utilized for energy. The alternate chemical structure of MCTs makes them less likely to become stored in adipose (fat) cells, and thus they are less likely to contribute to obesity.

Contraindications/Precautions

Coconut is a tree nut and can be allergenic in some people.

Disclaimer

This information is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.