- Weight-loss benefits: First of all, coconut oil turns out to be 2.6 percent lower in calories than other fats. And although coconut oil is still a calorie-dense food and should be used in moderation, a study that compared soybean oil and coconut oil in a group of participants who took two tablespoons of one or the other oil daily for 12 weeks showed that those who consumed coconut oil experienced decreases in waist size. Both categories of participants also lost weight during the study.
This may also contribute to weight-loss results in coconut oil consumers. A second study involved participants who consumed 18 to 24 grams of MCTs daily as part of a 16-week weight loss effort. When compared with olive oil, MCTs yielded greater weight and fat loss and upheld the theory that substituting oils that are high in medium-chain triglycerides for other options helps achieve weight loss.
Of course, coconut oil always should be purchased in its purest, extra-virgin state, and consumers should avoid food products containing partially hydrogenated coconut oil.
- Benefits for diabetics: MCTs also show some benefits for the diabetic diet. Studies show that MCTs may help with glucose tolerance in individuals with diabetes, and it has also been noted that body fat reduction is associated with coconut oil consumption -- an overall health benefit for many diabetics. Insulin sensitivity may decrease in type 2 diabetics when coconut oil is used.
- Cardiovascular benefits: Coconut oil has been linked to a higher level of good cholesterol (HDL) in one recent study. According to Medical News Today, the same clinical trial mentioned in the weight-loss section above showed that while the participants who consumed two tablespoons of soybean oil once per day for 12 weeks presented with an increase in bad cholesterol (LDL) and a decrease in HDL. Those who consumed coconut oil remained steady with higher levels of HDL.