How Much Coconut Oil is Enough?

How much coconut oil is enough? According to researchers, an adult should consume around 3 1/2 tbsp. of coconut oil daily: an amount equal to the MCFA a nursing infant would receive in one day. The benefits of coconut oil are derived from the nutritional value of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA’s), and the best comparison in nature as to the percentage of MCFA consumed in a diet is in human breast milk. For those who are not used to having coconut oil in their diet, it is best to start out with a lesser amount and see how the body reacts before following the recommended amount. Does coconut oil have any adverse side effects? Coconut oil has no known side effects. However, if you are used to a low-fat diet, a common adverse reaction would be diarrhea. It is probably not advisable to start with a large amount right away. Spreading the recommended amount over the course of one day and building up to a larger dose can help to avoid unwanted effects. In coconut-producing countries, it is considered beneficial for pregnant and lactating women to enjoy coconut oil; Westerners used to a low-fat diet, however, are cautioned not to experiment with coconut oil while pregnant if the body is not used to it. If you have been consuming coconut oil regularly with no adverse reactions, there is no reason to discontinue consumption Sources: Foale, M. (2003). The Coconut Odyssey the bounteous possibilities of the tree of life. Asian Centre for International Agricultural Research. Retrieved June 1, 2012 from http://aciar.gov.au/files/node/453/mono101.pdf http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/ http://www.organicfacts.net http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/faq.htm The health benefits of coconut oil. (n.d.). Bioriginal Food and Science Corp. Retrieved on June 4, 2012 from http://www.bioriginal.com http://www.qualityfirst.on.ca/FAQ%27s.htm Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/036156_Coconut_oil_superfood_healing.html#ixzz3k2vHJuiH