There is a small list of foods that are touted as "Super Foods." These foods are said to have amazing, even miraculous health benefits and nearly no negatives. One of the more recently publicized foods on this is list is coconut oil. For those of us who suffer from celiac disease or gluten-sensitivity, the gut takes a lot of damage before the problem is discovered. So, it's key to eat foods that help to heal the gut damage. Coconut oil is one of these foods!
Health Benefits
Coconut Oil is highly beneficial for healing gluten-freers. As Sarah Ballantyne explains, "Antimicrobial short- and medium-chain saturated fats, like those found in coconut oil and other coconut products, help to reduce overgrowth of bad yeast, fungus and bacteria in the small intestine. Medium chain saturated fats are very gentle on the cells that line the gut since they can be passively absorbed without being broken down by digestive enzymes and used for energy without any modification. This source of easy energy is very helpful for healing the lining of the gut."
Some other benefits include killing viruses, bacteria and fungi, boosting energy and helping to regulate insulin, and is also a heart healthy fat, according to the Coconut Research Center.
Uses in Gluten-free Cooking
Coconut oil is a stable cooking oil. It maintains its structural integrity at higher temperatures, unlike many vegetable oils. Dr. James Mercola considers coconut oil to be the only oil to cook with. In addition to being a great cooking oil, coconut oil can be substituted for the fat in recipes and can also be used to make delicious dark chocolate!
Where to get it
Here in Colorado Springs, you can get Virgin Coconut Oil from King Soopers, Whole Foods or Sprouts. But the best deal in town right now is on the Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil from Costco which comes in a large 78oz jar.
Bonus! Uses around the house
Coconut oil can be used as a lotion, hair conditioner, and even deodorant! Check out Elizabeth Walling's list of twelve creative uses for coconut oil.
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