Coconut oil is becoming more popular these days as people look for ways to incorporate healthy fats into their diet. From a personal trainer’s perspective, I am really happy to see this renewed enthusiasm for healthy fats because your body needs fat for fuel. You also need fat to lose and/or maintain your weight. Without enough fat in your diet, your body will begin to store fat rather than burn it.
Coconut oil is pressed from the fruit of the coconut palm tree and it’s believed to promote good health, improve the taste of food, and help keep your skin looking younger!
You can find coconut oil in most local markets and there are different types to choose from. If you like the coconut flavor you will want to choose Organic Extra Virgin (unrefined) coconut oils. However, unrefined can burn more quickly so cook it at medium to low temperatures.
If you aren’t crazy about the coconut taste, try Organic refined coconut oil. This is a great way to reap the benefits of the oil without the taste. And if you are cooking at high heats, the refined oil has a higher burn rate.
Here are twelve ways you can start using coconut oil right away:
1) Replace butter with coconut oil in baked goods, over popcorn, or hot cereals.
2) Try a tablespoon on a piece of sprouted toast in the morning.
3) Melt it over french toast, pancakes, or poached eggs.
4) Add a tablespoon to smoothies.
5) Use it in place of canola or peanut oil in stir fry and curries.
6) Mash potatoes with it.
7) Toss potatoes and/or vegetables with coconut oil and spices before roasting.
8) Stir a dollop into soups and stews.
9) Pan-fry fish with it.
10) Use as an alternative oil when scrambling or frying eggs.
11) Rub it on meats prior to roasting.
12) Give coconut oil to your pooch at feeding time. Dogs like coconut oil too! Just make sure to check with your veterinarian for proper dosages.
In the beginning, I suggest you start with small amounts daily (no more than a tablespoon). Otherwise, your digestive system may work a bit faster than you would like it to. I don’t want you to have to stay close to a bathroom all day.
And remember, coconut oil is one of many healthy fats available to you. There is no such thing as one “halo” food that will cure everything that ails people. The right amount of coconut oil combined with other healthy fats throughout your day is a well-balanced approach. Have fun experimenting and if you’d like to share a tip on how you use coconut oil please comment below.
Enjoy!
Jennifer Ledford