Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Health & Beauty Benefits of Coconut



When you hear the word Coconut you think of hot summer days, sandy beaches and pina coladas right? Well according to recent studies coconut is MUCH more than just that! Unfortunately it has been given a "bad rep" for being much too high in saturated fats. But after a lot of research I found that foods with high levels of fats aren't necessarily bad for you! Its all about the molecular size of the fat (the smaller the molecule the easier it is for your body to break it down). In comparison, coconut has smaller fat molecules than vegetable and seed oils, therefore your body metabolizes it easier! Which speeds up your metabolism and leads to weight loss and an increase in good cholesterol in the body!
Health Benefits of Coconut
  1. Hair- Can help with protein loss and protect the hair against damage as well as being a great conditioner for dry ends and scalp.
  2. Skin- Contains Lauric Acid which is an anti-viral component found in breast milk, has anti-microbial and anti-bacterial benefits, and is a great protectant against free radicals and aging. It is also a great moisturizer because of its molecular size allows better absorption by the skin.
  3. Body- Increases the body's metabolism causing weight loss, helps with the absorption of vitamins and minerals, prevents indigestion, has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that fight against infections, can help in dissolving kidney stones, as well as boosting energy/endurance and assists in removing stress and mental fatigue.
Coconut Products to Check Out
Coconut Body Butter by The Body Shop- Im in LOVE with this stuff! Perfect for winter. Just use it after a shower or bath and it moisturizes for up to 24 hours!
Coconut Lip Butter also by The Body Shop- I get chapped lips at night so this is the best before bed!
Organic Coconut Oil for Cooking- You can get it at just about any local grocery store! But I have found the best brands that are certified organic at Whole Foods, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Trader Joe's!

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