Kara
October 26, 2019
Coconut has long been thought of by many to be a super food, and for good reason. It has so many health benefits, many uses and is the ideal oil for cooking. In this article I would like to share with you how many people are using coconut oil for fibromyalgia as well as a whole host of other things! So, stay tuned and don’t forget to stock up on some the next time you are out grocery shopping.
What Is Coconut Oil?
First, what is a coconut? Some people think coconuts are an actual nut, which is quite understandable given their name. Some believe it is a type of fruit. Well, this is where it gets a little tricky… although the FDA recognizes them as a tree nut, they are categorized as a fruit. So perhaps everyone is right after all. It is also interesting to note that while some may experience an allergic reaction to coconuts, most people who are allergic to tree nuts can still eat coconuts safely.
There are three main classes of fatty acids: monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and saturated. Every oil or fat contain all three in varying amounts; however, it is given one of these names depending on which of these it consists of the most. Coconut oil contains 92% saturated fat, 6% monounsaturated and only about 2% polyunsaturated, therefore it is categorized as a saturated fat.
Yes! Coconut oil is a saturated fat and consists mainly of triglycerides. In fact, it is more saturated than most other saturated fats such as butter (66% saturated) beef fat (52% saturated) palm oil (51% saturated) or lard (41% saturated). Whenever coconut oil is above 75 degrees F, it is a liquid. Below this temperature, it becomes a solid fat. Coconut oil is extracted from the kernel or ‘meat’ of the coconut. There are many extraction methods, including pressure, motion, as well as cold and hot extraction.
The Extraction Process.
Coconut oil that has been extracted using a ram press or by mechanical centrifuge results in a very pure oil, usually without the need for refining. Expeller pressed, however, uses extreme pressure, sometimes heat, but does not usually involve the use of a solvent to separate the meat from the oil and therefore requiring refining afterwards to remove the chemical. Chemical extraction is not the best form of extraction and will ultimately alter the integrity and nutritional profile of the oil.
Sometimes during manufacturing the coconut paste will be heated in order to extract more oil. This alters not only the nutritional value of the oil but can also affect the flavor and color. For this reason, many prefer cold pressed oil. You may have heard the term “Extra Virgin”, this term signifies that no chemicals or extreme heat were used during the extraction process. It also guarantees a superior taste.
