Is Coconut Oil Healthy....Or Not? Benefits, Side Effects + More

Summary

Coconut oil gets a lot of flack for its saturated fat content, but many studies have shown that, in moderation, it can be a healthy part of your diet.

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1.

It's a quick source of energy.

2.

It's high in healthy fatty acids.

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3.

It may promote weight loss.

4.

It provides a boost for your brain.

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5.

It’s good for your skin.

One thing that we can all agree on: coconut oil is super hydrating and creamy when applied to the skin. “Coconut oil is rich in vitamin E, which has been linked to protecting the skin barrier from premature aging and sun damage22,” says Chaudry. “While some experts say it may clog pores since it’s thicker and can sit on the dermis, this is more of a concern for sensitive, or acne-prone skin type.”

Keep in mind that unrefined coconut oils retain more of their nutrients (due to their processing) so they’re the better bet for skin health.

6.

It may balance blood sugar.

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All coconut oil isn’t the same, and there are some important distinctions between refined and unrefined coconut oil.

“Unrefined (virgin) coconut oil is basically made from pressing coconut meat. Because it hasn’t gone through a lot of processing, you’re still getting a strong coconut flavor and smell, so that means when you’re cooking with it or using it in recipes you’re going to taste it,” says Cording.

Refined coconut oil, on the other hand, goes through much more processing. Typically, the coconut meat is dried and then exposed to heat and (in some cases) chemicals that bleach and deodorize it. The end result is a more neutral-tasting oil that doesn’t have a strong coconut smell or flavor.

Refined coconut oil has a higher smoke point so it can stand up to higher heat cooking, but the processing strips some of the phytonutrients and polyphenols24. (Unrefined coconut oil has a smoke point of about 350 degrees, while refined can go up to 450 degrees.)

Clearly, there are pros and cons to both. Here, you can read up on all the differences between refined and unrefined coconut oil (and which one is better for different purposes).

Consuming coconut oil at any time of the day can be beneficial, but as Cole previously told mindbodygreen, having it in the morning can help set you up for a more productive day.

Cording adds that adding coconut oil to your breakfast or coffee in the morning may help with portion control throughout the day and provide lasting energy. “Fat helps with the absorption of certain nutrients (fat-soluble vitamins), so if you’re someone who takes your vitamins in the morning on an empty stomach, you might be better off having it in the morning with a healthy fat,” she says.

However, if you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to eat something before coconut oil. “If someone is using too much oil in general, it may upset the stomach if you have underlying digestive issues. But that’s really about how much you’re using, and not necessarily exclusive to coconut oil,” Cording caveats.

Olive oil is practically all monounsaturated fats, with a small amount of saturated and polyunsaturated fats. The main fat is oleic acid27, which has been shown to help combat inflammation28 and help with weight management29.

Extra virgin olive oil (the healthiest kind) has a 350-degree smoke point. Refined coconut oil can go up to 450 degrees, making it better for high-heat cooking.

Olive oil is best for low-heat cooking or drizzling on top of salads or roasted vegetables after they’re cooked.

Like olive oil, avocado oil is mostly monounsaturated fats. The specific breakdown is 71% monounsaturated fats30, 13% polyunsaturated fats, and 16% saturated fats—and much of this in the form of oleic acid.

At 520 degrees, avocado oil has the highest smoke point in the bunch so it’s ideal for high-heat cooking. It has a neutral flavor that makes it excellent for baking as well.

Coconut oil can be a healthy part of most diets. It’s best to be mindful of your portions though, and make sure you’re switching up your healthy cooking oils so you’re consuming all different types of beneficial fats. Those who are monitoring their lipids may want to use coconut oil sparingly, and discuss it with their doctor.

Gastrointestinal side effects, like diarrhea, cramps, and gastrointestinal discomfort, can happen in those who are consuming too much coconut oil, according to Chaudry. Cutting back on your intake can help mitigate this, as can consuming coconut oil with a meal and not on an empty stomach.

Allergies could also be a concern for someone who has a tree nut allergy, says Cording.

Both Chaudry and Cording say that organic, unrefined/ virgin coconut oil is typically the healthiest type you can buy. Looking for cold-pressed coconut oil is also a good idea, since it wasn’t exposed to any heat during processing and, as such, retains most of its nutritional value.

Cording also recommends opting for glass containers over plastic for sustainability reasons. “Not only will you limit plastic consumption, but glass jars are reusable. They make great containers for overnight oats and smoothies when you’re on the go,” she adds.