Coconut oil is highly nutritious. It has vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Doctors even recommend coconut oil for thyroid problems. Coconut oil has been found to benefit those with hypothyroidism. Coconut oil is a healthier option, despite being an oil. The reason for this is because its structure is different. Oils are made up of fatty acids in different sizes and ways. The size and shape of coconut oil fatty acids let the body respond distinctly.
It increases the metabolic rate, which is why it is beneficial for hypothyroidism. Coconut (Cocos nucifera) has a high number of nutrients and valuable ingredients. As such, the oil derived from this fruit is rich in medium-chain fatty acids/MCFA.
Its MCFA content is around 70-85%. This reason is why it triggers weight loss and helps thyroid patients to reduce body fat. A high metabolism ensures that hypothyroidism symptoms lessen.
Why Try Coconut Oil for Thyroid?
The thyroid gland is currently among the large-sized endocrine glands within the body. It secretes two hormones, namely triiodothyronine/T3 and thyroxine/T4. Hypothyroidism results when the gland does not produce enough T3 and T4.
Prolonged hypothyroidism impacts the metabolic rate, and leads to weight gain, besides other issues. To counter a slow metabolism, in cases of an underactive thyroid, coconut oil is excellent. MCFAs aid in coconut oil to enter quickly and effectively into the cell’s energy-burning powerhouses, namely the mitochondria. From this point, fat is converted into energy to boost the metabolic rate(1).
Coconut oil for thyroid also encourages weight loss. An increased metabolic rate induces weight loss because the coconut oil metabolizes more food to create energy.
So, fat deposits lessen. Coconut oil helps with weight loss, which is a boon for people with hypothyroidism. Excess weight can lead to diabetes and other side effects, which thyroid patients can avoid by using coconut oil.
[Read: Home Remedies for Treating Thyroid]
Muscle, as well as joint pain, are noted in hypothyroidism. An increase in inflammation is the result of underactive thyroid. According to researchers, neuromuscular symptoms are common in those with thyroid problems. Coconut oil is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. It is thermogenic, which is beneficial for thyroid patients. Coconut oil decreases LDL cholesterol.
It also increases HDL/good cholesterol. The reason is that coconut oil contains natural saturated fats. Coconut oil for thyroid keeps cholesterol levels in a healthy range. This balance prevents complications, such as heart diseases.
Stress impacts the immune system through endocrine glands such as thyroid. Immune alterations trigger autoimmune thyroid disorders. Stress remains a common cause of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Coconut oil reduces stress management and levels of stress hormones. It impacts well-being in positive ways.
[Also Read: How To Cure Thyroid]
How to Use Coconut Oil for Thyroid?
Try coconut oil for various thyroid problems in two ways. One way is to ingest the coconut oil, by including it in your diet. Another means of combating thyroid issues is topically applying coconut oil.
Including Coconut oil in Diet
Regular intake of coconut oil helps in managing weight, cholesterol, and tacking stressors. Thyroid patients also lose weight due to coconut oil. These effects support the thyroid glands. They also help patients function better. Moderation is critical for a healthy diet. Coconut oil is not an exception to this rule. To obtain favorable effects, take the right amount.
Some experts recommend two tablespoons of coconut oil at a time to be beneficial for thyroid patients. Use coconut oil for cooking food. It can be added to many recipes. Add coconut oil to beverages. Supplements that are FDA-approved deliver coconut oil in capsule form, as well. You can add one-fourth of a cup to drinks, smoothies, dishes, and gravies, or even salads.
Studies have found 30 ml or two tablespoons of coconut oil to be excellent for weight loss. Specific studies use up to 39 grams or 2.5 tablespoons in a single day, based on calorific intake. Around two tablespoons offer 18 grams worth of triglycerides(2). These are medium-chain triglycerides. Around 15-30 grams of triglycerides increase the metabolic rate.
[Read: Supplements to Treat Thyroid]
Coconut oil makes for ideal cooking oil, as 90% of fats are saturated. It is stable at high temperatures and has a high smoke point of 350 degrees F. You can cook saute, or stir-fry vegetables, meat, fish, eggs in coconut oil. Try coconut oil drizzled on dishes and gravies. You can even coat poultry in coconut oil before baking. Use coconut oil as against butter or other oils in the ratio 1:1. Take coconut oil in supplement form, too.
Thus, coconut oil for thyroid is an excellent solution. The thyroid is a condition associated with a multitude of issues. There are no coconut oil side effects thyroid patients should know. Coconut oil contains MCFAs and potent antioxidants, which reduce swelling and improve the immunity and metabolic rate in hypothyroid patients.
FAQs
1. Why Is Coconut Oil Good for Thyroid?
Coconut oil contains potent antioxidants that reduce inflammation associated with the thyroid. This oil is rich in lauric acids, which boost metabolism and fight weight gain in thyroid patients. Avert side effects of hypothyroidism like high cholesterol through coconut oil intake.
2. How Should Coconut Oil for Thyroid Be Taken?
Coconut oil can be taken in the form of supplements or ingested. Use it as a cooking oil. Add it to salads and dishes as a seasoning oil. It can even be applied topically to boost skin and hair health in thyroid patients.
3. What Can Coconut Oil Supplements Be Taken for Thyroid?
Coconut oil supplements for thyroid should be carefully selected. Always opt for US-FDA approved supplements. Make sure you take supplements under medical guidance.
