Effects of Coconut Oil on Human Health

Abstract

Coconut oil (CO) has generated discussions about its possible effects on health, especially for being an oil rich in saturated fat, which is known to contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, CO contains high levels of lauric acid that is directly absorbed by enterocytes and may prevent the fat deposition in blood vessels. In addition, flavonoids and polyphenols present in CO may be beneficial in reducing the oxidative stress involved in the etiology of various diseases, for instance, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. This article aimed to review the likely benefits of CO and its effects related to oxidative stress, hyperlipidemia and chronicle diseases in humans.