Coconut oil is almost like a miracle food that has positive health effects through internal and external use. Including it in the diet promotes long-term health, relieving the symptoms of various health conditions while helping to prevent or reduce the risk of disease.
Millions of people suffer from thyroid disease. While usually common in women, it also afflicts men and children. The thyroid gland produces hormones that control metabolism and energy levels and stimulates healthy growth in children. When it is out of balance, it results in exhaustion, reduce appetite, depression, skin and hair problems, and weight issues. It can also trigger other conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and lupus.
In a prior article, entitled Foods to Naturally Support Thyroid Health, I reported the incident of mild hypothyroidism in the United States was estimated at thirty percent in women. “Mature” women commonly confuse the symptoms of thyroid malfunction with those of menopause. Common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, irregular periods, problems catching one’s breath and depression. Many go years without a proper diagnosis or treatment plan. One major line of defense is a proper diet and the importance of thyroid “friendly” foods, which include beans, herb teas, and friendly oils such as coconut, olive, flaxseed, and sunflower.
Coconut oil’s stability contributes to thyroid health
In spite of being rich in saturated fat, coconut oil is stable. Unlike vegetable oils which are known to cause oxidative stress and impede the conversion of thyroid hormones in the liver, coconut oil promotes this conversion and fights free radicals, keeping the liver healthy.
Often, in spite of good nutrition, malnourishment can occur because unsaturated oils prevent the digestion of protein in the stomach. It is important for the body to absorb vitamins and minerals such as zinc, vitamin B2, B3, B6 and B12 that help to prevent hypothyroidism and keep the body healthy.
Extra virgin organic coconut oil can be included in the diet to replace unhealthy fats and also as a substitute for butter, as cooking oil, and in smoothies. Just two tablespoons a day can make a significant difference in thyroid health.
The benefits of extra virgin coconut oil for thyroid health
Including extra virgin organic coconut oil in your diet helps you:
- Improve body metabolism
- Relieve the symptoms of thyroid disease
- Keep skin and hair healthy
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Improve immune system
- Heal depression
Coconut oil’s saturate fat content is made of medium-chain fatty acids which are responsible for its health benefits. For those whose thyroid function is low, coconut oil raises their body temperature and boosts their metabolism which is a critical benefit for those with hypothyroidism. It also repairs tissue and reduces inflammation. Its action inhibits the spread of intestinal micro-organisms responsible for the inflammation.
Organic virgin coconut oil is derive from the meat of matured coconuts and is mild in flavor and an extremely stable oil, making it most suitable for cooking and appropriate in medium to high heat to 350 degrees. One tablespoon has 130 calories and 12g of saturated fat, with zero trans fats, no cholesterol and is gluten, sodium, and sugar-free. It should be stored in a cool dry place, no refrigeration is necessary. The coconut oil remains in a solid-state but will quickly transform to liquid at temperatures around 75 degrees. All health and nutrition properties remain the same in either the solid or the liquid state. Below are three easy ways to add it to your life. Virgin coconut oil is good for thyroid.
Some References: https://riordanclinic.org/2014/01/three-ways-to-feed-your-thyroid-coconut-oil/