Spring 2016 | Issue Two
Story by Simone Corbett Design by Elizabeth Mason
Y
oung people always finding a new fad to obsess over. While sometimes these trends are quite ridiculous, more often than not, certain fads trending in the media are found to actually be legit. Coconut oil is a prime example of one unconventional trend that might be worth obsessing over.
Digestive Health Coconut oil belongs to the family of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). Unlike long-chain triglycerides such as olive oil, MCT’s are able to easily absorb into your intestines and liver because they take less time to process. This means that you will experience greater satiety and little digestive discomfort. For this reason Hannah Brzozowski, Central graduate student and registered dietician nutritionist (RDN), says consuming coconut greatly benefits those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). “Just like fiber does, it kind of provides a good cushion for movement in your intestines,” Brzozowski says. As coconut oil is ingested, it provides the intestines with a lubrication that allows for your muscles to contract smoothly, and without pain.
Hair and Skincare Coconut oil is arguably most well-known for its moisturizing properties. These properties make it a great deep conditioning hair mask, and moisturizing treatment for dry skin. In fact, the healthy fatty acids found in coconut oil make it great for healing the body. Vanessa Schademan, instructor at Bluestone Academy and owner of Head to Toe Salon, says coconut oil is the only thing that has relieved her psoriasis. “I’ll use it along my hairline where I have spots,” Schademan says. “It’s [coconut oil] a very healthy fat so it helps healing in the body and reduces inflammation.” While all trends eventually fade into a thing of the past, coconut oil is believed to have made a lasting impact, especially regarding to nutritional health. With coconut oil being a healthy fat, it has re-iterated the fact that fat is necessary to maintain a healthy diet, and should not be avoided. “I’m glad that the low-fat fad is finally over,” Brzozowski says. “People are starting to feel more comfortable with consuming fat.” Brzozowski says her favorite ways to reach her daily fat intake through coconut oil, is cooking vegetables in it and adding it into her smoothies.
Other Benefits of Coconut Oil • Balance blood sugar levels • Sunscreen • Heals minor cuts • Relieve joint pain • Promotes weight loss 46