Market status of coconut oil
In recent years, with the rise of internet marketing, coconut oil has exploded in popularity, becoming a new “internet sensation,” garnering widespread attention and acclaim from consumers, even being hailed as “the healthiest vegetable oil on earth.” Driven by the combined efforts of media outlets and businesses, coconut oil has gained popularity and market share, increasing from 15% in 2008 to 26% in 2012. According to data from the Asia-Pacific Coconut Community (APCC), coconut oil exports in Asia have continued to grow at an average annual rate of 3.3%.
The Rise of Coconut Oil
So, what’s so magical about coconut oil that has it so garnered such widespread attention? Rumors abound online that it can help with weight loss and lipid reduction, and some even use it to treat diabetes, heart disease, and boost immunity. Furthermore, coconut oil is also attributed with numerous miraculous benefits, including beauty and detoxification, seemingly offering a universal cure.
However, a 2016 New York Times survey revealed that while nearly 72% of Americans consider coconut oil a “healthy food,” only 37% of nutritionists share this view.
Coconut Oil Composition Characteristics
Coconut oil contains 82% saturated fatty acids, including medium-chain fatty acids, making it unique compared to other vegetable oils. What is the secret behind coconut oil, a vegetable oil extracted from coconut meat? The key lies in its fatty acid composition. The high saturated fatty acid content in coconut oil makes it unique among vegetable oils. Up to 64% of the saturated fatty acids in coconut oil are medium-chain fatty acids, including lauric acid (C12), capric acid (C10), and caprylic acid (C8), with lauric acid comprising 54%. Coconut oil also contains saturated fatty acids such as myristic acid (C14) and palmitic acid (C16).
Health Benefits of Coconut Oil
Weight Loss Research
Since coconut oil has garnered significant attention among vegetable oils, what exactly makes it unique compared to other oils like olive oil and palm oil? Studies suggest that the medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil may aid weight loss, but current evidence is insufficient to prove its superiority over other oils. Professor Clegg’s 2017 study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition noted that most studies on coconut oil for weight loss have focused on medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) rather than on coconut oil itself. Professor St-Onge compared the thermogenic effects of coconut oil and corn oil in obese adolescents and found no significant difference between the two.
Lipid-Lowering Effects and Cardiovascular Health
Research suggests that coconut oil may increase LDL levels, but its effect on HDL is unclear. Therefore, it is not recommended as a lipid-lowering food. There is currently insufficient research evidence to support the claims that coconut oil can lower lipids or even treat heart disease. A 2017 report from the AHA stated that while the evidence for coconut oil’s HDL-raising effect is insufficient, there is clear evidence that it can increase LDL.
Practical Applications and Controversies of Coconut Oil
Practical Applications
Despite a lack of scientific evidence, coconut oil is marketed as a treatment for a variety of ailments and for boosting immunity. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has a dedicated section on pure coconut oil on its official website, noting its widespread use for treating a variety of conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and chronic fatigue.
Safety and Appropriate Use
In August 2018, Professor Karin Michels called coconut oil “poison,” sparking widespread concern. However, no research has yet established definitive safety concerns regarding coconut oil. While coconut oil is safe for normal consumption, its high saturated fatty acid content makes long-term, high-intensity consumption not recommended. The NIH explicitly states that coconut oil is safe for both regular consumption and topical application on the skin, with no significant side effects or risks.