Coconut oil is good for you!

For more than 20 years now I have been advocating the benefits of coconut oil to my patients and audiences on Guam, Hawaii and throughout Micronesia. The "authorities" from non tropical countries have been saying coconut oil is not good for your health and recently the American Heart Association brought this topic up again in the media. In my defense for tropical countries where I have lived and worked including Hawaii, Guam, Micronesia, Palau, Marshall Islands, and Tonga, please continue to use this very important food which has been used for thousands of years as a source of food, medicine and good nutrition.

I still recommend the use of coconut oil as one of the best oils for frying because of its saturated fats which are resistant to heat. It is the vegetable oils that are sensitive to heat that may turn into trans fats when heated to high temperatures. Coconut oil when balanced with other fats in the diet such as fish oils (omega-3), nuts/seeds, flax, chia and other whole grains, and olive oil provide energy, fats for healthy cells and overall good health.

In my clinic, Dr. Horinouchi Wellness Clinic, we sell virgin coconut oil that can be used for cooking, hair and skin and massage. Coconut Swirl MCT is used as a way of taking coconut oil internally for the benefits of the digestive system, and is antifungal and antibacterial. We also prepare healthy WellShakes that may include coconut oil for added nutrition, taste and satisfaction when taking a protein shake daily for replacing a meal, weight loss, and reducing sugar spikes after high carbohydrate meals.