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Does Virgin Coconut Oil Increase Cholesterol

Virgin Coconut Oil For Heart Health Research Quotes

Coconut Oil and the Boost in HDL âGoodâ? Cholesterol

A study examined the effect of daily virgin coconut oil consumption on HDL and LDL. The participants were healthy individuals aged between 18-25 years. They consumed 15 ml of virgin coconut oil twice daily for 8 weeks and skipped it for the next 8 weeks. Again, they continued taking the oil for the next 8 weeks. Their plasma lipoproteins levels were measured at weeks 8, 16, and 24.

The reports revealed that daily intake of virgin coconut oil showed a significant increase in HDL , which is good cholesterol. There was no change in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol . This could be explained by the high proportion of lauric acid and myristic acid in virgin coconut oil.

The study further reported that a few participants reported mild diarrhea or loose stool, mild stomach ache, and vomiting. But these effects were reported during the first week and they got settled naturally during the second week.

Thus, the study concluded that up to 30 ml of virgin coconut oil consumed by healthy adults showed significant improvement in HDL. And it caused no side effects when consumed for 8 weeks.

Does Coconut Oil Cause Heart Disease Stroke

The AHA has advised avoiding coconut oil for years, saying in a 2017 advisory about cardiovascular disease that the oil has no known offsetting favorable effects and could increase risk of heart attack and stroke. It has held the same position on saturated fats for more than 30 years.

Some critics have challenged these longstanding dietary guidelines, questioning recommendations to limit eating saturated fat-rich foods including coconut oil, which also has antioxidant properties and increases HDL cholesterol.

In 2014, the journal Annals of Internal Medicine published controversial research suggesting people who ate an increased amount of saturated fat did not have more heart disease than those who ate less. A 2015 BMJ review reported people who cut saturated fat might fill the void with sugar and empty calories, which could also cause health problems.

Most doctors say for heart health, advocating coconut oil use can be dangerous. When looking for an oil to use in cooking, those with high levels of monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats that lower cholesterol are preferred.

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Does Coconut Oil Increase Cholesterol

Coconut oilraise cholesteroloilscoconut oil

. Subsequently, one may also ask, is coconut oil good or bad for cholesterol?

Coconut oil is more than 80% saturated fat, which has long been associated with raising cholesterol levels. However, other reports claim that coconut oil is good for your heart, because it reduces levels of the harmful form of cholesterol, LDL.

can using coconut oil on skin raise cholesterol? Coconut oil can raise total cholesterol more than any other fatty acid. Moisturizer: Extra virgin coconut oil is known as the best skin moisturizer available. As we know, anything applied to our skin will not just affect the skin but will quickly be absorbed into the blood stream.

In this manner, does coconut increase cholesterol?

The research isnt entirely clear on this point, but it seems the fatty acids found in coconut oil do raise LDL bad cholesterol as do other saturated fats, like butter. But coconut may also raise HDL cholesterol good cholesterol to some extent, though not as much as unsaturated fats .

Which oil is best for lowering cholesterol?

Olive oil can help lower bad cholesterol and raise the level of your good cholesterol . Also look for other vegetable-based oils: canola, soy, and sunflower.

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The Effects Of Vco On Plasma Lipoproteins Levels

This open-label, randomized, controlled, crossover trial among 32 healthy participants assessed the effects of daily VCO consumption on plasma lipoproteins levels compared to control . We found that taking 15mL of VCO twice daily for 8 weeks was associated with a significant increase in HDL-C level compared with taking 2% CMC solution. Nevertheless, we did not find any significant differences in total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglyceride levels between VCO and the control.

Our findings are in line with the findings that VCO consumption is potentially beneficial for increasing HDL-C levels . Our lipid parameter results are similar to a recent study by Cardoso et al. who evaluated the effect of VCO on lipid profiles and anthropometric parameters among patients with coronary artery disease . Cardoso et al. found that HDL-C levels significantly increased in those consuming VCO 15mL for 3 months, while no significant change occurred in total cholesterol or LDL-C levels . Our results are similar to a randomized crossover study by Voon et al. conducted in Malaysia with 45 healthy participants who consumed diets with 30% of energy from fat and two-thirds of fat from coconut oil, palm oil, or extra virgin olive oil . Compared with consuming extra virgin olive oil, consuming coconut oil significantly increased the HDL-C level by 3.48mg/dL .

Heart Uk Says Bbc Coconut Oil Claim Not To Be Trusted

8 Surprising Uses for Organic Coconut Oil

HEART UK are very concerned regarding the latest coverage of coconut – See article here. The idea that consuming coconut oil lowers cholesterol made by the BBC programme Trust me Im a Doctor, is both misleading, unhelpful and not to be trusted.

The majority of respected scientific evidence shows that the saturated fats in coconut oil raise the bad cholesterol and the very limited experiment in the programme is misleading viewers to believe that coconut oil has beneficial effects on cholesterol.

HEART UK is delighted to see that the media are encouraging the use of olive oil and discouraging the use of butter because of their effects on blood cholesterol.

Coconut oil, unlike most vegetable oils, is solid at room temperature and is 85% saturated fat which when compared to butter at 52% and lard at 40% saturated fat puts it into context.

Some have argued that coconut oil contains a large amount of medium chain fats which are metabolised differently however the predominant fats in coconut oils are Lauric acid, Myristic acid and Palmitic acid all of which are classified as long chain saturated fats and all have been shown to raise the level of damaging LDL cholesterol in the blood.

Small variations in cholesterol resulting from changes in diet can be difficult to demonstrate due to the variability in many factors including:

Background
References

Fat and Fatty Acid Intake and Metabolic Effects in the Human BodyAnn Nutr Metab 2009 55:162172 DOI: 10.1159/000229001

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Why People Think Coconut Oil Improves Heart Health

Despite its high saturated fat content, there are a few reasons that people think coconut oil is a healthy fat.

The main reason is coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides , a type of fat found in coconut oil. MCTs have a different chemical makeup than other fats, meaning your body processes them differently. MCTs have six to 12 carbon atoms, which is less than more commonly found long-chain triglycerides 12 to 18 carbon atoms.

MCTs are able to be digested and absorbed more rapidly than other fats, and therefore can be used as a more immediate energy source, says Melissa Rifkin, MS, RD, CDN, a dietitian based in New York City.

Because they are less likely to store as fat due to how they are digested and absorbed, MCTs are less likely to impact LDL levels in the blood, says Rifkin.

However, despite its benefits, store-bought coconut oils only contain around 54% MCTs, says Rifkin. Additionally, the chemical makeup of MCTs used in research tends to be different than those found in coconut oil.

Many of the MCT oils used in clinical studies have eight or 10 carbon chains, whereas those in coconut oil typically have 12. This composition makes the coconut oil we use in cooking quite different from those studies using MCT oil, says Christensen.

Although coconut oil does have some MCTs, it doesnt have enough to reap their health benefits and override the negative consequences associated with its high saturated fat content.

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Benefits Of Coconut Oil

Despite being high in saturated fat, theres some evidence that coconut oil can help with weight loss. The reason involves medium-chain triglycerides , which can lead to greater energy expenditure and calorie burn.

The effect is minimal, though, so dont expect miracles. Coconut oil is not the key to a beach body. Moderation is still advised.

Coconut oil also fits nicely into a plant-based diet as an alternative to butter, lard or beef tallow.

A few more positives pop up once you leave the kitchen. Coconut oil is touted for hair and skin health, which explains why you might see it promoted on an assortment of beauty aisle products.

Coconut oil vs. butter

When it comes to the which-is-healthier question, theres really no clear winner between coconut oil and butter. Research shows that theres little difference between coconut oil and other saturated fats like butter and palm oil, notes Zumpano.

For heart health, the best types of oils are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated oils primarily, extra virgin olive oil . Several studies on the Mediterranean diet have proven EVOOs benefits for the heart.

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Strengths And Limitations Of This Study

  • The randomised trial design comparing three dietary fat interventions minimised confounding and bias.
  • There was good compliance and participants were from the general community in a real life setting.
  • Objective measures of outcomeblood biochemistry and anthropometrywere used, minimising bias.
  • Participants were not blinded as to the intervention, and the intervention was relatively short term over 4weeks.

High Cholesterol: Nutritionist Reveals Top Prevention Tips

Does Coconut Oil Have High Cholesterol? â Dr. Berg

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High cholesterol is infamous for damaging vascular health over time, yet the condition offers few warning signs of trouble along the way. When symptoms do occur, it is usually a sign of advanced clogging in the arteries. Fortunately, certain dietary habits could help avert such risks. One milk that is widely considered a healthy alternative to dairy may contribute to the condition.

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What About Extra Virgin Or Virgin Coconut Oil

Extra virgin or virgin coconut oil is made by pressing fresh coconut meat. These terms are used interchangeably. It has been suggested that the polyphenols in unrefined coconut oil, like in extra virgin olive oil, may be beneficial for improving inflammation and glucose regulation.

Importantly, unlike extra virgin olive oil, use of these terms is not regulated.

What does the science say? Unfortunately, most studies do not report on the type of oil used. One small trial with virgin coconut oil found it significantly raised LDL cholesterol compared to safflower oil with no changes in body composition. Another trial of virgin coconut oil found no difference compared to extra virgin olive oil on blood lipids, blood pressure, or body composition. Studies demonstrating possible benefit are limited at this time to animal studies. As such, its difficult to draw a firm conclusion from these small studies, but current available evidence does not suggest it is significantly healthier.

Coconut Oil And Cholesterol

Overview

Coconut oil has been in the headlines in recent years for various health reasons. In particular, experts go back and forth debating about whether or not its good for cholesterol levels.

Some experts say you should avoid coconut oil because of its high levels of saturated fat .

Others say that the structure of the fat in coconut oil makes it less likely to add to fat buildup in the body and that, for that reason, its healthy.

There are a lot of conflicting reports about whether or not coconut oil can help:

Research hasnt been definitive, but there are many facts known about this oil. These may help you choose whether or not to incorporate coconut oil into your diet. Consulting your physician is also a good idea.

Coconut oil is a tropical oil derived from the dried nut of the coconut palm tree. Its nutritional components include the following:

  • It contains nearly 13.5 grams of total fat per tablespoon.
  • It also contains about 0.8 grams of monounsaturated fat and about 3.5 grams of polyunsaturated fat, which are both considered healthy fats.
  • It doesnt contain cholesterol.
  • Its high in vitamin E and polyphenols .

According to the Mayo Clinic, the oil from fresh coconuts contains a high proportion of medium chain fatty acids. These dont seem to be stored in fat tissue as easily as are long chain fatty acids.

In a saturated fat to soybean oils 15 percent.

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Effect On Lipid Levels

In the present study no significant change in body weight of animals from the three groups was observed. The concentration of cholesterol in serum, liver, and heart of the VCO-treated group was significantly lower compared to CO fed and control animals. Triglycerides in serum and tissues were significantly lower in VCO-treated animals compared to CO and control animals and phospholipid levels also showed the same pattern among the three groups . HDL cholesterol in VCO fed animals was

Will Eating Coconut Oil Raise My Cholesterol

Healthy Benefits of Virgin Coconut Oil

This is the most often asked question I receive regarding coconut oil. This is a legitimate concern because we have been conditioned to believe that all saturated fats raise cholesterol. Since coconut oil contains a high amount of saturated fat, it would stand to reason that it, too, would raise cholesterol.

The truth is, eating coconut oil will improve your cholesterol values and reduce your risk of heart disease. Many people, however, have expressed concern after having their blood cholesterol checked and finding that their total cholesterol has increased since they began using coconut oil. If coconut oil reduces risk of heart disease, why did their cholesterol levels rise?

I have found that peoples response varies when they start using coconut oil. In some people total cholesterol decreases, while in others it increases. But in either case, their HDL cholesterol always increases. The rise in total cholesterol that some people experience is due mostly to an increase in good cholesterol. Their cholesterol ratio improves, thus reducing their risk of heart disease.

The lower the cholesterol ratio the better. A cholesterol ratio of 5.0 mg/dl is considered average risk. Above this value is high risk and below is less than average risk. A ratio of 3.2 mg/dl or less is considered optimal or the lowest risk.

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The Adverse Effects Of Vco

Regarding participant safety, we found that eating 15mL of VCO twice daily for 8 weeks was not associated with changes in AST or ALT levels or SCr and BUN. A small increase in ALT level was found among those taking VCO compared to those taking 2% CMC solution. This small increase in ALT level was still within the normal range and deemed not clinically significant. No participants had ALT levels higher than the normal range.

Some small side effects from taking VCO were observed. Of 32 participants, the side effects of taking VCO included diarrhea or loose stool , mild stomach ache , and vomiting . These side effects were normally reported in the first week after starting VCO however, the symptoms normally resolved by the second week. None of the side effects had an impact on the daily life activities of the participants.

Possible Health Benefits And Risks Of Coconut Oil

The health benefits of coconut oil arent so cut-and-dried in fact, its a very controversial topic. One Harvard University professor commented that coconut oil is reines Gift, or “pure poison,” in a talk she gave in Germany.

On the one hand, coconut oil advocates acknowledge that its high in saturated fat, which has been implicated in increased heart disease risk. But they point out that theres something unique about the saturated fat found in the tropical oil: Its rich in a medium-chain fatty acid called lauric acid, which may behave differently from other saturated fats.

and

The facts as they stand are that the effect of coconut oil on health isnt quite clear.

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Extra Virgin Coconut Oil And Its Benefits For Heart Health

Saturated fat is typically thought of as the less healthy fat. There has been mixed research on saturated fats and health. One of the likely reasons for this conflict in research is because coconut oil is a saturated fat but has a lot of health benefits. Coconut oil is great for heart health, specifically for blood lipids, as well as having antimicrobial and antiviral properties. In this blog we will focus on the heart health benefits and look at one study demonstrating this in particular.

Blood lipids are comprised of low density lipoproteins , very low density lipoproteins , high density lipoproteins , and triglycerides total cholesterol is also a measure of importance. In most instances the goal is to keep LDL, VLDL, and TG low, and HDL high. This is important for heart health because LDL and VLDL cholesterol can build up in arteries overtime causing different forms of cardiovascular disease. HDL helps remove cholesterol build up in the arteries.

References:

  • Ogbolu, D. O., Oni, A. A., Daini, O. A., & Oloko, A. P. . In vitro antimicrobial properties of coconut oil on Candida species in Ibadan, Nigeria. Journal of medicinal food, 10, 384-387.
  • Khaw, K. T., Sharp, S. J., Finikarides, L., Afzal, I., Lentjes, M., Luben, R., & Forouhi, N. G. . Randomised trial of coconut oil, olive oil or butter on blood lipids and other cardiovascular risk factors in healthy men and women. BMJ open, 8, e020167.
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