COCONUT OIL - OIL SEASONING OF THE WEEK

My first memories of coconut oil is when we were really young and mum used to apply it to our hair immediately the braids were off so we can go off to the salon. There was no need for our hairs to be straightened out or blow dried because the coconut oil was instant in softening the hair for it to be combed. Us and our kinky hair needed that coconut oil on our hairs lest it be hell! combing it out. Fast forward to now and I know about coconut oil for cooking with. So far mu most used coconut products are coconut cream, coconut milk and desiccated coconut. I love the taste, flavor and aroma of coconut in food. I have used coconut in my rice dish, I have made coconut french toast that was totally delish! Coconut oil has plenty of benefits that you will be glad you have been using it or if you have not then welcome onboard.

According to healthline.com coconut oil is not only beneficial when cooking, it has many more uses. Coconut oil protects your skin from UV rays. When applied to your skin coconut oil may protect it from the sun's ultraviolet rays which raise the risk of skin cancer, cause wrinkling and brown spots. Should not be substituted with conventional sunscreen which protects or blocks 90% of UV rays

Coconut oil contains fatty acids that are quickly absorbed and can increase number of calories you burn due to the oil's increased metabolism

Cook safely at high temperatures, coconut oil has a very high saturated fat content which makes it one of the best fats for high heat cooking like frying

Coconut oil improves your dental  health. It can be a powerful weapon against bacteria in your mouth that causes plaque, tooth decay and gum disease. Swishing with coconut oil for 10 minutes known as oil pulling reduces bacteria as effectively as rinsing with an antiseptic mouth wash

Coconut oil relieves skin irritation and Eczema. The oil improves dermatitis and other skin disorders at least as well as mineral oil and other conventional moisturizers

Commercial mayonnaise often contains soybean oil and added sugar therefore use coconut oil to make healthy mayonnaise

Moisturize your skin with coconut oil. The oil is wonderful for legs, arms and elbows. You can use on your face, but not recommended for those with oily skin. It can help repair cracked heels, simply apply a thin coat to your cracked heels at bedtime, put on socks and continue on a nightly basis until your heels are smooth

Coconut oil may reduce belly fat. Belly fat is linked to increased health risks like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to your diet in meals

Use coconut oil to remove eye makeup. Coconut oil is a gentle and effective eye makeup remover. Apply with a cotton pad and wipe gently until all traces of makeup are gone

Coconut Oil – FAQs

1. What is coconut oil?

Coconut oil is a natural oil extracted from the meat of mature coconuts. It’s widely used in cooking, baking, skincare, and haircare.

2. What types of coconut oil are available?

There are mainly two types: virgin (or extra virgin) coconut oil, which is minimally processed and retains more flavor and nutrients, and refined coconut oil, which has a neutral flavor and higher smoke point.

3. Is coconut oil healthy?

Coconut oil is high in saturated fat, primarily medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized differently from other fats. It may support energy and metabolism but should be consumed in moderation.

4. Can coconut oil be used for cooking?

Yes, it’s great for medium-heat cooking, sautéing, baking, and even frying. Virgin coconut oil has a lower smoke point, while refined coconut oil can handle higher temperatures.

5. Is coconut oil suitable for all diets?

Coconut oil is plant-based and fits vegan, paleo, keto, and whole30 diets but is high in saturated fat, so it should be balanced with other healthy fats.

Nutrition Card – Approx. per tablespoon (14g)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value (DV)	Notes
Calories	120 kcal	—	Pure fat source
Total Fat	14 g	22%	Mostly saturated fat
Saturated Fat	12 g	60%	Mostly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs)
Monounsaturated Fat	1 g	—
Polyunsaturated Fat	0.2 g	—
Carbohydrates	0 g	0%	No carbs
Protein	0 g	0%	No protein

Dietary Compatibility & Notes

Diet Type	Compatible?	Suggestions
Vegan	✅ Yes	Plant-based oil
Vegetarian	✅ Yes	Plant-based oil
Keto	✅ Yes	Excellent fat source for keto
Paleo	✅ Yes	Allowed on paleo diet
Whole30	✅ Yes	Compliant fat source
Gluten-Free	✅ Yes	Naturally gluten-free
Nut-Free	✅ Yes	Safe for nut allergies

Usage Tips:

Use coconut oil for sautéing vegetables, baking muffins or cookies, making smoothies creamier, or as a dairy-free butter substitute. It can also be used topically for skin and hair care.

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For precise nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator with exact ingredient measurements.

If you have been enjoying these foodie adventures, I would love to stay connected. Follow me on all my social platforms for real-time updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and event alerts. See behind-the-scenes looks and join conversations around all things delicious. Follow me on Instagram for beautiful food photos and quick reels. Find me on Facebook for longer stories and community chats. Join the fun on Twitter(X) where I share food thoughts and tips. Get creative with me on Pinterest where you can pin your favorite recipes for later. Subscribe to my YouTube channel for the full recipe creation. Leave a comment in the comment section and let's chat!