Is Coconut Oil Truly Good For You?

High In Saturated Fatty Acids

Foods that are high in saturated fatty acids are generally thought to be bad for heart health and may lead to heart disease. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol from fish oil and other unsaturated fats is considered to be heart healthy as it is metabolized by the liver. The low-density lipoprotein (LDL) saturated fats making up coconut oil eventually accumulate and form plaques within the walls of arteries. When the plaque levels are too high, they can block the blood supply to organs, such as the small artery feeding the heart muscle itself. Plaque can dislodge from the wall of the artery and cause a stroke or embolism in any organ and can be fatal. It is, therefore, best to avoid foods high in saturated fatty acids as it can negatively impact your cholesterol. However, fats are necessary for a balanced diet, and when consumed in a small to moderate amount, coconut can still benefit the body greatly.

Next, see how coconut oil compares to other oils.