Coconut oil holds a special place in our house. You will find it in the kitchen, and in the medicine cabinet. A frequent statement is, “try some coconut oil on x, y, or z.” And often, whatever the ailment, coconut oil makes a difference.
Why is coconut oil so special? Here are a few reasons for you to love it too:
– The least vulnerable oil to oxidation and free-radical formation and therefore, the safest to use in cooking.
– Supports mineral absorption
– Immune-boosting properties due to its lauric acid content
– Helps fight viruses, bacteria, fungus, yeast and candida
– Helps to lower cholesterol
– Helps regulate thyroid function by stimulating the metabolism
– Easy on the liver and gallbladder – does not require pancreatic enzymes or bile to be digested.
– Quick energy source
– Helpful for weight loss
How much coconut oil should you consume? For the average person, a goal of 2-3 tablespoons a day is good. Start with a small amount and work your way up. Coconut oil can have a detoxifying effect and you will want to slowly build up your dosage. Here are a few ways to get coconut oil into your diet:
- Add it to your tea or coffee. I know it sounds strange, but give it a try! Drop a spoonful into your beverage and enjoy! It has the double benefit of moisturizing your lips as you drink.
- Add it to your smoothies.
- Make coconut bark. I love to whip up a batch of this and keep it in the fridge for quick energy bites throughout the day.
Cranberry-Orange Coconut Bark
1 Cup Coconut oil
1/3 Cup Coconut butter
¼ Cup Chopped dried cranberries
¼ Cup Chopped Crispy Walnuts
1 t. Orange Extract
- Mix in cranberries, walnuts and orange extract
- Pour into 8×8 parchment lined glass dish.
- Place in fridge until sets.
- Pop out the coconut bark and cut into bite-size squares.
- Store in glass jar in fridge.
Enjoy!