How To Use Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has gotten quite a bit of press lately. Many people may have questions about how to use coconut oil, because it is only recently so popular. There are many uses of coconut oil, and we think it should be a staple for the households of people living on the Kaufmann 1 and Two lifestyles.

First, coconut oil is the oil derived from the coconut. It is typically a white solid at room temperature, but will quickly turn into a liquid when temperatures start to exceed “room” levels. We prefer extra virgin, cold pressed coconut oil. Some types of coconut oil have more of a coconut essence than others; this has to do with the extraction process. For more coconut aroma and flavor, cold-pressed is best. Expeller pressed typically has less coconut essence, which may be useful in some circumstances, particularly cocking. (Although, many people like the coconut essence in their cooking!) There are types of coconut oil that are hydrogenated, and we recommend avoiding these.

There two primary ways we recommend on how to use coconut oil. The first application is as food and the second is as a topical agent.

As a food, there are many uses of coconut oil. It is great to cook with, due to its high smoke point. It is useful for anything from eggs, to sautéing vegetable. Expeller pressed will lend a more neutral flavor, but you may find you like the added flavor of cold-pressed. Coconut oil is also useful for baking as a substitute for other oils, shortening or butter.

As a food, it can also be consumed raw. Coconut oil is high in fat, which means it is great for energy. Mix it into a smoothie or add it to hot coffee. (Many people lately are doing this; many are using a more concentrated version of coconut oil called MCT oil, which is a great brain nutrient.) Coconut oils exhibits anti-fungal properties, and fits perfectly within the framework of the Kaufmann 1 Diet.

Coconut oil can also be used a topical agent. Used by itself, it can act as a fantastic basic lotion. It can act in place of lip balm, as well. Coconut oil’s anti-fungal properties make it great for fungal skin problems, including athlete’s foot, nail fungus and other, topical fungal problems.

Coconut oil also has some benefit for hair when applied directly and can act as a conditioner.

The uses of coconut oil are only limited to your imagination. Look for organic, cold-pressed and raw varieties. Because of its rise in popularity, you can likely find it at most health food stores and even conventional groceries stores. Pick some up and use it as part of your Kaufmann 1 regimen!