Are the claims about coconut oil being a good fat choice true?
Claims that coconut oil can reduce blood cholesterol, improve immune function and promote weight loss are circulating in nonscientific circles, but the factual basis for these claims is unclear. Coconut oil contains no trans fat, but it is almost completely saturated fat. Sound research clearly shows that coconut oil raises blood cholesterol. Some of that increase is due to increased HDL (“good”) cholesterol, but this oil is still not considered heart healthy. The only studies that favor this oil compare it to other cholesterol-raising fats. A search of the scientific literature mentioning coconut oil suggests that the main type of fatty acid in this oil might stimulate the immune system. But even if this is true, it could possibly be harmful. Part of the way that omega-3 fats (the fat found in fatty fish) and aspirin work to promote health is to prevent excess inflammation. They do this by keeping the immune system from becoming too active. Controlled scientific studies also do not su