Coconut has gotten a horrible reputation over the years. This was due to the use of partially hydrogenated coconut oil used in studies. Partial hydrogenation is a process that destroys the healthy essential fats and antioxidants while also causing the dreaded trans-fats that are known carcinogens. While even virgin coconut oil (not adulterated by the partial hydrogenation process) contains saturated fat, scientists are learning that not all saturated fats are bad for you.
The saturated fat in coconut oil is a medium-chain fatty acid, called lauric acid. Lauric acid has known health benefits such as increasing your healthy cholesterol more than any other fatty acid. For those who don't know, this means less plaque build-up in your arteries so less risk of heart disease. Other benefits are from research showing that it has antimicrobial properties.
Even the famous Dr. Oz is jumping on the bandwagon and touting the benefits of coconut oil on his website. He acknowledges that it can postively affect blood sugar and the hormones that control your thyroid. In addition, because of the above reasons, it seems to help people lose weight.
I use it to saute vegetables and my children love it! I add it to my green tea along with lemon oil and stevia. This combination makes an excellent metabolism booster and health drink for your immune system. If you decide to try it, look for virgin coconut oil. My favorite brand is called NOW and I find it at my local health food store.