New Study Shows Virgin Coconut
Oil Improves Cholesterol Levels
A clinical study out of the University of Santo Tomas (UST),
Philippines, has shown that eating virgin coconut oil (VCO) produces
beneficial effects on triglyceride and cholesterol levels.
The research team led by Dr. Christina Binag of the UST Research
Center for Natural and Applied Science said the double-blind study,
where both researchers and subjects were not aware of who
were taking VCO and the placebo, showed decreases in triglycerides
and improved the cholesterol ratio, both indicators of reduced risk
of cardiovascular disease.
Commissioned by the Philippine Coconut Authority, the study required
110 participants to take 3 tablespoons of VCO every day for four
months while 79 others took a placebo for the same period. Dr. Binag
said this was the largest clinical study ever undertaken on the
effects of VCO on cholesterol levels.
Results indicated that among the VCO takers decreases in
triglycerides and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL)—a form of the
so-called “bad” cholesterol. They also showed elevated high density
lipoprotein (HDL), which is known as the “good” cholesterol. Higher
levels of HDL cholesterol is known to reduce the risk of heart
attacks and strokes. No changes were seen the lipid profile of the
placebo group.
Other changes were also noted by the researchers, stating, “There
was an unexplained rise in creatinine but still within the normal
range. Elevations in Free Thyroid 3 and Free Thyroid 4 were noted
due to enhanced thyroid function. No change was noted with BMI (body
mass index) and weight.”
Aside from these clinical effects, the group also reported that
those who took the VCO felt stronger and healthier. They reported
regular bowel movements, increase in appetite and stamina, and
better sleep with regular VCO intake of 3 tablespoons a day.
Apart from keeping cholesterol levels under control, improving
thyroid function, and boosting energy levels, three spoonfuls of
virgin coconut oil may also enhance a person’s sex life. Some
members of the group reported that they were more virile during the
test phase. “It was an interesting observation that 13 percent of
the VCO takers experienced becoming sexually active in the whole
duration of their participation in the VCO study,” the team said.
This study provides further evidence that virgin coconut oil is not
only heart healthy but may provide additional health benefits as
well.
■
Reference:
Scientists Present Results of Clinical
Study on VCO – Philipines. Cocommunity 1 May, 2012, Vol 42, No 4,
pp7-8. The Healthy Ways Newsletter
