Coconut oil is an increasingly popular cooking oil. Many people praise it for its health benefits. Including antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, improved skin and oral health, and weight loss potential.
1. May encourage fat burning
Coconut oil is a rich source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of saturated fat.UFABET
In general, saturated fats are divided into three subgroups, each of which has different effects in your body. These subgroups are:
- long-chain
- medium-chain
- short-chain
Scientists are studying medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), including those found in coconut oil, for their potential health benefits.
For instance, a 2023 study found that MCT supplementation, when used during a low-calorie ketogenic diet, significantly decreased body weight, BMI, and waist circumference.
Since the fats in coconut oil are 65% MCT. It may have fat-burning properties that are similar to pure MCT oil.
However, there’s currently no good evidence to say that eating coconut oil by itself will increase the number of calories you burn. More studies on MCT’s weight loss potential are needed.
It’s also important to keep in mind that coconut oil is very high in calories and can easily lead to weight gain if you consume it in large amounts.
2. May work as a quick source of energy
The MCTs in coconut oil provide a quick supply of energy.
When you eat long-chain triglycerides (LCTs). They’re packaged into molecules called chylomicrons that are transported into your blood via the lymphatic system. Once chylomicrons exit your lymphatic system. They’re taken to your liver and other tissues to be stored or broken down for energy. So getting energy from LCTs take some time.
On the other hand, MCTs are absorbed intact from the small intestine into the blood and can be immediately used for energy, in much the same way as carbs. Your body’s preferred source of energy.
In fact, MCTs have been long used in sports nutrition products for athletes who need a source of energy their body can absorb and use fast.