Coconut Oil

Coconut oil, derived from coconuts, has gained more popularity over recent years as a “healthier” oil. Many claims include it will help you lose weight, prevent heart disease, and boost your immune system, to name a few. Some studies have suggested coconut oil may have potential benefits to our cardiovascular health, particularly that it can help to raise our “good” cholesterol, or HDL cholesterol. However, what’s often not shared in the media world is that coconut oil can also raise our “bad” cholesterol, or LDL. Coconut oil is 100% pure fat with approximately 80% to 90% of that fat consisting of saturated fat, which (in excess) can negatively impact our heart health.

So, what’s the verdict? The American Heart Association’s stance is that it’s all about balance. If you are not consuming foods rich in saturated fats elsewhere in your diet, then consuming a limited amount of coconut oil should be okay. Otherwise, limit the use of coconut oil and stick to more heart-healthy oils like extra virgin olive oil.