Coconut has become one of the most popular oils in the past few years and for good reason. The health benefits of organic virgin coconut oil are astounding. Not that long ago coconut oil was considered to be a "bad" fat that contributed to heart disease. This was due to the fact that most coconut oil in this country was processed and hydrogenated thus changing the fat makeup of the oil. True unprocessed organic virgin coconut oil can actually help prevent heart disease and lower cholesterol levels.

Saturated fats have a higher smoke point meaning you can cook with them at high temperatures and it will not oxidize the oil. When consumed, an oxidized oil will create more free radicals, damage cells and have a pro inflammatory effect This makes coconut oil one of the best fats to cook with, even better than olive oil. Here are some other benefits of coconut oil.

1) Alzheimer disease Coconut oil has been shown to help prevent and reverse/slow progression of alzheimer's disease.

2) Immune booster Coconut oil can help improve immunity due to a compound called lauric acid. This substance helps to fight viruses and bacteria which in turn helps prevent colds and flus.

3) Weight loss Coconut oil is a medium chain fatty acid therefore it gets used for energy right away as opposed to being stored as fat. This speeds up the body's metabolism. Many people notice weight loss from consuming coconut oil.

4) Healthy skin and hair Coconut oil is a natural beauty product and can be used topically on the skin and hair to reverse the signs of aging.

Dr. Pamela Langenderfer is a licensed naturopathic physician and licensed acupuncturist. She is the co owner of Lakeside Holistic Health, PLLC with locations in Liberty Lake, Wash., and Coeur d'Alene. Visit our website at www.lakesideholistic.com.