WHAT IS COCONUT OIL?
Coconut oil is a healthy alternative to other cooking oils for many reasons.

We have heard some negative comments about coconut oil, because it is high in saturated fat. These rumors are false however, because even though it contains a high percentage of saturated fat, the source is from a plant, not an animal. How coconut oil is processed is important to optimizing the taste, color, texture, aroma and overall quality of the product. If it is pressed within the hour of opening the mature coconut without heat and it is made from the first and only pressing, then it qualifies as “Extra Virgin”, the healthiest form of coconut oil.

Unfortunately, early researchers and scientists didn’t distinguish between naturally occurring saturates and artificially hydrogenated saturates. Coconut and coconut oil have been used as a major source of food for thousands of years in Asia, the Pacific Islands, Africa and Central America. Before the introduction of modern foods, these people depended on coconut to sustain life. They never suffered from heart disease, cancer, arthritis or diabetes until they abandoned their traditional diet based on coconut and began eating modern food.

In my house, I use the extra virgin coconut oil for cooking and cosmetics. Other healthful qualities are weight loss, energy, more mental clarity, stabilized blood sugar levels, inflammation reduction, support of positive cardiovascular health, healthy thyroid function, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties, and the support of a healthy immune system. It works well for all blood and body types, but can detoxify the body quickly. Sensitive persons should start with only 1 teaspoon and build up gradually over a three week period to about 3 to 4 tablespoons daily.

I keep half of my extra virgin coconut oil in the kitchen and the other half in the bathroom. I use it as a moisturizer, facial cream and hair conditioner. I rub just a small amount into my hands and then apply it to skin or hair. It looks greasy at first, but absorbs quite quickly and gives the skin a healthy glow.

In the kitchen, it makes rice, stir fries, toast or French toast taste much more flavorful!
Who needs chemicals when this friendly fat can do so much to keep us healthy and glowing?

Katharina Stutz was born and raised in Switzerland. Kathy has studied at the Wildrose College of Natural Healing, and is a believer of alternative approaches to health issues. Contact Kathy at kathyrules58@yahoo.com