Coconut oil has been a topic of heated debate across the board. Some experts like Dr. Oz swear by its superpower properties, but others like Dr. Weil feel that the research isn't ready to make these claims. Part of the reason that sales of coconut oil are booming is because of the vegan community. For people who don't partake in animal products of any kind, coconut oil is a great substitute for traditional butter. If you're curious about the benefits beyond a delicious dairy-free dessert, here are three surprising facts.
- It treats skin conditions: Instead of relying on heavily medicated creams, coconut oil can do wonders for dry and irritated skin. Regular use on the skin can greatly improve pesky symptoms of eczema and psoriasis. Most recently, lauric acid, one of the saturated fats in coconut oil, has been shown to even fight off fungal infections.
- It raises HDL: Coconut oil got a bad rap over the years, but studies were performed on partially hydrogenated coconut oil, rather than raw, virgin coconut oil. While many hydrogenated saturated fats raise bad cholesterol levels, coconut oil raises good cholesterol. As long as you buy virgin coconut oil, you'll be able to reap this healthy benefit.
Keep reading for one more reason to smile about coconut oil.
Even though they might cost a pretty penny, some specialty oils are worth splurging for in addition to your go-to vegetable or olive oil. Flax oil lends salad dressings or smoothies a nutty, rich flavor, while coconut oil has a high smoke point and also offers a tropical flavor to everything from fried tofu to vegan baked goods. Some oils like walnuts and pumpkin seed are best drizzled over finished dishes for a distinct roasted aroma. One of the most interesting oils I've ever used is 