According to the Health Diaries, here are ten health benefits of virgin coconut oil:
- Support of the immune system
Consuming coconut oil can help your body to fight diseases because it contains anti-virus, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties. When you’re trying to fight any virus or infection, try to consume this oil.
- Cardiovascular health
Although coconut oil is a saturated fat, some studies have found that consuming it does not cause an adverse effect on the heart. In contrary, virgin coconut oil may reduce the risk of high cholesterol and heart attack.
- To help the thyroid gland
It is believed that consuming extra virgin coconut oil can help to manage the symptoms of hypothyroidism. While studies related to this subject have varied results, many people suffering from hypothyroidism have successfully used it: some became healthier, some got free of hypothyroidism, and some were able to go off medication.
- Weight loss
A study found that women who consume virgin coconut oil daily experienced significant reduction of fat in the abdominal area. Although coconut oil is a type of fat, it apparently can help you to lose weight!
- Fight germs
When applied topically to cuts and bruises, virgin coconut oil can help to stop secondary infection.
- Assist wound healing
A study conducted in rats found that an injury treated with virgin coconut oil appeared to recover more quickly.
- Prevent stretch marks
In Asian countries, virgin coconut oil has long been used to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. In addition to that, it can also be used totreat stretch marks—massage virgin coconut oil on the affected areas, and voila, it will help to reduce them.
- Beneficial for skin
Good hydration is the key to keep your skin young and healthy. Coconut oil can be used to moisturize your skin as a healthier alternative to the usual lotions. It can also help in fighting bacteria and managing other skin problems such as rashes, dermatitis, acne, wrinkles, eczema, and psoriasis.
- Healthy hair
Coconut oil can also be used to improve scalp and hair health. It helps by strengthening the hair strands and preventing loss of proteins, which could occur during routine hair wash.
- Digestive system
Coconut oil has been regarded by many people as beneficial in treating digestive problems, such as constipation. It fights against unhealthy bacteria in the digestive system and helps the absorption of nutrients in our body.
So, there are indeed reasons why virgin coconut oil is very popular lately. Do you want to give it a try?
Text by Denistya Sagita
Stock photos from BigStockPhoto.com
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