When to Use Refined and Unrefined Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can be used in baking both refined and unrefined, and it’s frequently used as a vegan alternative to butter. The aroma and flavor of coconut may or may not be desired depending on the recipe. Use refined coconut oil for recipes like vegan pumpkin pie or strawberry shortcake cupcakes so the coconut flavor doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. In contrast, unrefined coconut oil could be used in recipes like Coconut-Rum Banana Bread and Coconut-Carrot Morning Glory Muffins to enhance the flavor.
Refined coconut oil is superior for frying because it can withstand higher temperatures due to their different smoke points. Meanwhile, you can sauté with unrefined coconut oil, like in the recipe for sautéed shrimp with mango salsa. Since unrefined coconut oil also has a distinct coconut flavor, it can be used in savory dishes like soups and curries where the flavor is desired.
Coconut oil has uses other than cooking, such as skin care. Dermatologists advise using unrefined coconut oil, particularly if it has been cold-pressed rather than expeller-pressed. When it comes to skin care, using cold-pressed coconut oil is preferable to expeller-pressed because it is believed to contain more nutrients. Lauric acid, which is found in coconut oil and has powerful antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, can act as a moisturizer. Learn more about using coconut oil for your skin.
Lauric acid, which provides moisture to nourish hair, is a component of coconut oil that can also be beneficial to your hair. Coconut oil can both heal and prevent split ends if you already have them. Making a hair mask with unrefined coconut oil is a simple way to incorporate coconut oil into your routine. If your hair is overstyled and damaged, the oil can help. Learn more about how coconut oil can benefit your hair.
Heres the nutrition for 1 tablespoon of coconut oil:
Coconut oil’s effects on heart health are frequently discussed. A review of 12 earlier studies published in Nutrition Reviews in 2020 looked at coconut oil’s connection to cardiovascular health. Compared to oil from animal sources, the review found that coconut oil increased HDL and decreased LDL levels in blood cholesterol. Coconut oil did raise HDL when compared to plant oil, but its effects on LDL were inconsistent. As such, the authors concluded that more research is needed. (FYI: HDL is referred to as the “good” cholesterol because it can aid in the removal of extra fat from your arteries by your body. Because it can build up in our arteries, LDL cholesterol is referred to as the “bad” cholesterol. ).
Due to the high amount of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) that it contains, coconut oil is also high in saturated fat. This type of fatty acid is digested more quickly than long-chain types of fats found in foods like olive oil because its carbon molecules are shorter than those of a typical fat and have a shorter length. MCT oil may increase calorie burn for those trying to lose weight, according to some studies, but more research is required to confirm these results.
While there is varying discussion about saturated fat and its impact on heart health, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends limiting saturated fat intake to less than 10% of your daily calories Because of this, it’s crucial to balance your intake of saturated and unsaturated fats, making coconut oil your only source of oil not necessarily the healthiest choice.
The method of production and whether fresh or dried coconut meat is used determine whether coconut oil is refined or unrefined. Higher smoke point and neutral flavor characterize refined coconut oil. Unrefined coconut oil has a lower smoke point and a strong coconut flavor and aroma. The best coconut oil for skin and hair care is unrefined coconut oil, though both types can be used for baking and cooking.
How to Choose the Best Coconut Oil for Skin
Triglycerides (fatty acids) are present in both refined and unrefined coconut oils, making them both excellent moisturizers. However, unrefined coconut oil is the best option for skincare because it contains more phytonutrients (compounds produced by plants to help protect them from environmental threats, such as antioxidants).
Skincare professionals advise using unrefined coconut oil for the additional benefits because high temperatures used in the manufacturing process for refined coconut oil remove many of the oil’s antioxidants.
Choosing organic cold-pressed coconut oil ensures a milder processing process that avoids the use of pesticides, chemicals, or additives in the final product—another significant benefit for your skin.
When you’re ready to incorporate coconut oil into your skincare regimen, whether as a moisturizer, lip balm, shaving cream, or all of the above, think about giving one of these well-liked choices a try.
All Good Organic Coconut Oil Skin Food
This coconut oil is made by hand in small batches using USDA and Leaping Bunny certified organic unrefined coconut oil. Additionally, it comes in scents like lavender and lemongrass, allowing you to benefit from the calming effects of aromatherapy while moisturizing.
All Good Organic Coconut Oil Skin Food $29.99