Can Coconut Oil Really Help You Lose Weight?

So can eating more fat make you skinny? According to some research
adding a specific type of fat (coconut oil) to your diet can promote weight
loss. This highly saturated fat has gained exposure as being able to suppress
appetite and boost metabolism, both of which can lead to weight loss. Is
there validity to these claims? If so, should you substitute olive oil and
canola oil for coconut oil to lose an extra few pounds?

What makes coconut oil so special?

Although coconut oil is rich in unhealthy saturated fat, there is a chemical
difference between coconut fat and the fat found in most other saturated
fats. While coconut oil is composed mostly of medium-chain triglycerides
(MCT), many other saturated fats (such as butter and bacon) predominately
contain long-chain triglycerides (LCT). While MCT’s are quickly digested
and immediately used for energy, LCT’s are slowly digested and once
absorbed, they are transported directly to adipose (fat) tissue for metabolism
and storage.

Proponents of Coconut Oil

Those in favor of coconut oil argue that its unique chemical structure allows
the calories in coconut oil to be immediately utilized for energy. Some
research also suggests the MCT boosts the levels of thyroid hormones
(which control metabolism) in people with low levels of those hormones.

Critics of Coconut Oil

Those against coconut oil consumption disagree and argue that despite the
potentially small effect that coconut oil may have on weight loss; there
is no getting around the fact that coconut fat is highly saturated and very
caloric. To date there are only a limited number of studies examining the
thermogenic effect (amount of energy used) of coconut oil and similar oils
high in MCT, such as palm kernel oil and milk fat. No definitive results have
been found.

Like all other oils, coconut oil contains 120 calories per tablespoon so the
recommended 3 tablespoon of coconut oil a day adds up to 360 calories in
ones diet. Those of you on a calorie controlled diet, this could hamper your
efforts at weight loss.

Wendy’s Advice

The reality is that there’s not strong enough evidence to support coconut
oils potential ability to boost metabolism and promote weight loss over the
long haul. Until there is further research on coconut oil’s effect on heart
health and weight loss, my advice is to stick to a diet that is moderate in fat
and get most of your fats from plant sources such as olives, peanut butter,
nuts, avocados and omega-3 fatty acids from oils (flaxseed, canola, walnut,
olive) and fish (mackerel, salmon, anchovies, herring, sardines and tuna).
If you are still looking for a way to boost your metabolism and lose weight,
break a sweat with a workout and watch your total calorie intake,
these are the sure ways to drop those extra pounds!

(Photo Credit: Wellnesstimes.com)