If you're looking for a healthy option to add to your diet, look no further than 1 tbsp (15 ml) of organic unrefined virgin coconut oil. With 120 calories in a single tablespoon, it's a great source of energy and can be used in a variety of ways.

Organic unrefined virgin coconut oil is packed with nutrients, including medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), lauric acid, and antioxidants. These components can help improve brain function, fight off infection, and promote healthy skin and hair.

In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of organic unrefined virgin coconut oil and how you can incorporate it into your daily routine.

What is Organic Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil?

Organic unrefined virgin coconut oil is made from fresh coconut meat that is cold pressed to extract the oil. It's not subjected to any chemical processes or high heat, so it retains its natural scent, flavor, and nutritional qualities. This type of coconut oil is also free from any additives or preservatives, making it a pure and natural source of healthy fats. In contrast, refined coconut oil is processed using high heat and chemical solvents to remove impurities and neutralize the scent and flavor. This makes it a more stable and versatile oil for cooking, but also removes many of the beneficial components found in unrefined coconut oil. When shopping for organic unrefined virgin coconut oil, look for products that are certified organic and non-GMO to ensure the highest quality and purity.

What are the Benefits of Organic Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil?

There are countless benefits to incorporating organic unrefined virgin coconut oil into your diet and daily routine. Here are just a few:

• Improves brain function and memory
• Boosts immunity and fights infection
• Promotes healthy skin and hair
• Helps with weight loss and metabolism
• Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress

These benefits are due to the unique combination of MCTs, lauric acid, and antioxidants found in coconut oil. MCTs are easily absorbed and metabolized by the body, providing a quick source of energy for the brain and body. Lauric acid has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, making it a powerful tool in fighting off infections. And antioxidants help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.

How to Use Organic Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil?

Organic unrefined virgin coconut oil can be used in a variety of ways, both for cooking and for external use. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

• Use as a cooking oil for stir-fries, sautés, and baking
• Add to smoothies or coffee for a creamy texture and added nutrients
• Apply to skin or hair as a moisturizer or hair treatment
• Use as a natural mouthwash or oil pulling agent

Keep in mind that coconut oil has a low smoke point, so it's best used for low to medium heat cooking. It can also solidify at cooler temperatures, so it may need to be warmed up or melted before use.

Is Organic Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil Good for Cooking?

Organic unrefined virgin coconut oil is a great option for cooking, particularly for low to medium heat dishes. It has a mild coconut flavor that can add a delicious touch to stir-fries, curries, and baked goods. However, because it has a low smoke point (around 350°F), it's not ideal for high heat cooking like searing or frying. In those situations, a more stable oil like avocado or grapeseed oil would be a better choice. Keep in mind that coconut oil can also solidify at cooler temperatures, so it may need to be warmed up or melted before use.

What is the Nutritional Value of Organic Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil?

1 tbsp (15 ml) of organic unrefined virgin coconut oil contains the following nutrients:

• calories: 120
• Total fat: 14 g
• Saturated fat: 12 g
• Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs): 13 g
• Lauric acid: 6.5 g
• Antioxidants: Vitamin E and polyphenols

It's important to note that while coconut oil is high in saturated fat, the type of saturated fat found in MCTs has been shown to have a neutral or even beneficial effect on heart health. However, as with any fat, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How to Store Organic Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil?

Organic unrefined virgin coconut oil should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It can solidify at cooler temperatures, so don't be alarmed if it becomes hard or lumpy in the fridge. If you need to soften the oil, you can gently warm it up by placing the jar in warm water or microwaving it in short intervals. Just be sure not to overheat the oil, as this can damage the nutrients and flavor. Properly stored, coconut oil can have a shelf life of up to 2 years.

Where to Buy Organic Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil?

Organic unrefined virgin coconut oil can be found at most health food stores, as well as online retailers like Amazon and Thrive Market. When shopping for coconut oil, look for products that are certified organic, non-GMO, and cold-pressed to ensure the highest quality and purity.

Are There Any Side Effects of Using Organic Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil?

While organic unrefined virgin coconut oil is generally safe and well-tolerated, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Coconut oil is high in calories and fat, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
• Some people may be allergic to coconut oil or develop a rash or reaction when applied topically.
• Coconut oil can interfere with certain medications, so check with your doctor if you're taking any prescription drugs.

If you experience any adverse effects from using coconut oil, stop use and consult your doctor.

What are the Differences Between Refined and Unrefined Coconut Oil?

The main difference between refined and unrefined coconut oil is in the processing. Refined coconut oil undergoes a process of deodorization, bleaching, and high heat to remove impurities and neutralize the scent and flavor. This makes it a more stable and versatile oil for cooking, but also strips away many of the beneficial components found in unrefined coconut oil. Unrefined coconut oil, on the other hand, is made from fresh coconut meat that is cold pressed to extract the oil. It's not subjected to any chemical processes or high heat, so it retains its natural scent, flavor, and nutritional qualities. This type of coconut oil is also free from any additives or preservatives, making it a pure and natural source of healthy fats. When choosing between refined and unrefined coconut oil, consider the benefits of each and choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Is Organic Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil Sustainable?

Coconut oil production can have both positive and negative impacts on the environment and local communities, depending on how it's grown and harvested. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Coconut trees can provide multiple benefits, including fruit, wood, and shade, making them a valuable crop for small farmers and communities.
• Coconut farming practices can vary widely, with some producers using environmentally damaging methods like clear-cutting and chemical fertilizers.
• Choosing certified organic and fair trade coconut oil can support sustainable farming practices, protect biodiversity, and promote fair wages and working conditions for farmers and workers.

When purchasing coconut oil, look for products that are certified organic and fair trade to ensure that you're supporting environmentally and socially responsible practices.