Extra virgin cold-pressed coconut oil is the friendliest oil to use for high temperatures and especially my favorite in baking because it enhances the flavors of what ever you are making. Coconut oil is highly resistant to oxidation at high heats therefor it is the best choice for baking and sautéing (and yes if you fry with it too).  However, coconut oil in the day got a bad rap because  the research was on the refined and hydrogenated oil that is full of trans fats.  We know now that hydrogenated stuff is bad news and can cause heart disease.

Unrefined coconut oil is truly amazing in its health properties.   This liquid gold has lauric acid which is an efficient killer of pathogens (this is in mother’s milk).  Studies have also shown this oil improves blood lipids in both humans, and can help with weight loss and energy levels.  It is wonderful to use on the skin and we often tell our patients with eczema to use this rather than something in a tube that is processed and has other toxic junk in it.

It works miraculously on dry skin and I can say so from first hand experience.   It is the only thing my husband who is 53 uses on his skin (hope he doesn’t mind me saying so it’s just not fair I am 10 years younger and have the same amount of fine lines).  I would like to tell you that is his secret because if you know him he looks great!  I think more has to do with the fact he walks his talk of healthy lifestyle overall.   He is so disciplined probably one of the reasons why I fell in love with him because I naturally am not.  If you use it on your face and body before bed I suggest letting it soak in for at least an hour otherwise you will have a lovely oil stain on your sheets.  At least our sheets smell yummy (lol)!

If you want to taste coconut oil in its raw beauty try my raw Creamy Limalicouis Bars (click here for recipe)!  Or to use in baking check out my Gluten Free Breakfast Muffins (click here for recipe)!