Coconut Oil May Help Cholesterol Levels

Coconut oil's long shelf life and high melting point once made it and other tropical oils, such as palm oil, popular ingredients in processed snacks. But, like butter, whole milk and red meat, coconut oil contains saturated fat, which experts have said contributes to high cholesterol, clogged arteries and heart disease. More recently, however, researchers have revealed that the fat molecules in coconut oil are shorter than those in animal-derived saturated fat. Some say that this subtle difference may explain why the traditional Polynesian diet — high in tropical oils, like coconut — appears to lead to relatively low rates of heart disease.

Uses: Some people are now turning to coconut oil to combat hypothyroidism and obesity and improve their cholesterol levels.

Dose: Proponents say a tablespoon a day or more is needed to reap coconut oil's health benefits. The oil is sold in tubs for cooking and as a dietary supplement in softgel (pill) form.

Courtesy of LA Times 5/16/2005