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Superfood Health benefits of coconut oil could not be proven
In other parts of the world, coconut oil has been used in the kitchen for millennia. In Germany, it has only arrived in recent years. Advocates like to emphasize the health benefits of oil, but these are not scientifically proven, experts say.
Which is the right oil??
Although fat-containing products are commonly associated with the development of overweight and obesity, the body generally relies on the supply of fats. The selection plays an important role here. Especially when using edible oil, opinions about which oil is right are far apart. In recent years, coconut oil has also entered the local kitchen. But is it actually as healthy as is often assumed??
Although coconut oil is often touted as a new "superfood", which should contribute to the prevention of various diseases. But the health benefits of the oil have not yet been scientifically proven. (Image: aedkafl / fotolia.com) A new "superfood"
A few years ago, coconut oil was still almost unknown in the German kitchen, meanwhile it can also be found as a new "superfood" in the local supermarkets and drugstores. It should be ideal for frying and cooking and additionally serve the health.
According to its proponents, coconut oil helps in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and even cancer. In addition, it helps against bacteria and fungi. But what's really up to the claims about the trend food?
Coconut oil against dry hair and for the skin
Coconut oil has long been used as a cosmetic. It is a popular home remedy for dry hair and soothes sunburn. But for its supposedly diverse health-promoting effects as food missing so far, the scientific evidence.
Since the white fat is not healthier than other oils, there is no health reason to consume coconut oil in large quantities, it says in the magazine "Nutrition Review" (October 2016 issue). The magazine refers to a report by the scientists Dr. med. Stacey Lockyer and Sara Stanner of the British Nutrition Foundation.
A lot of saturated fat
Coconut oil contains around 92 percent saturated fat, which, according to experts, adversely affects fat metabolism and thus increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
In addition, coconut oil contains a high percentage of lauric, myristic and palmitic acid, for which an LDL cholesterol-increasing effect is demonstrated.
Delicious ingredient for exotic dishes
As it is called in the "nutritional survey", there is hardly any scientifically valid evidence for the propagated health effects of coconut oil. In contrast, olive oil and rapeseed oil are the same. These oils have been certified in various studies health promoting effects - with moderate consumption.
But you do not have to do without coconut oil. As an ingredient in exotic dishes such as curries, it can, like coconut milk, contribute to a pleasantly fresh-sweet taste and enrich the kitchen. (Ad)