These days, I feel like I've become a coconut oil evangelist, and it's not just because popcorn pops crisply.

Nowadays, if you look around the internet, coconut oil is almost considered a panacea.

So what exactly is coconut oil?

Coconut oil is literally the oil extracted from the fruit of the coconut palm, Cocos nucifera.

There is also palm oil, which is extracted from the oil palm.

Both are tropical oils, but their properties are completely different.

Palm oil contains about 48% saturated fatty acids, and when it enters the body, it tends to accumulate as triglycerides, which is not great for health.

So while palm oil might be good for frying French fries, eating it daily can be a bit burdensome.

However, coconut oil contains a whopping 90% saturated fatty acids, of which 64% are medium-chain fatty acids (MCT).

In fact, nearly half of it contains lauric acid, a component found in breast milk, which is said to be good for the body.

Weight loss effects?

Medium-chain fatty acids are digested quickly and used directly for energy.

If you look online, there are many testimonials saying, "I lost weight eating coconut oil!"

But wait a minute. According to the USDA, coconut oil has 892 Kcal per 100g... if you eat a lot? You gain weight.

So if you consume it as if it were a weight loss supplement... it could actually have the opposite effect on your diet.

I'm just satisfied using it for popping popcorn. (It tastes good and feels good)

Is it good for constipation?

Yes, it can be. I've heard that coconut oil stimulates the intestines and helps with bowel movements, and I've actually felt some effect.

But this is true for other vegetable oils as well. Walnut oil, perilla oil, pine nut oil, all have similar effects.

And an important point! Eating too much can cause diarrhea.

People with a full stomach or weak stomachs can feel pain and nausea even from a small amount.

Does it have antibacterial properties?

Lauric acid in coconut oil is said to have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.

So it's good for immunity, helps prevent colds, and there are such claims.

But you know, if the antibacterial effect is too strong, it can also harm the good bacteria in our bodies — the beneficial gut bacteria.

So there are claims that it can disrupt the gut microbiome. No matter how good the benefits are, moderation is key!

Popping popcorn makes it really crispy, frying shrimp gives a high-end Japanese restaurant vibe, and applying it lightly to my legs after a shower gives a nice shine —

It's like, if you use it well for both eating and applying, it's an oil that can even lift your spirits.

It's a bit expensive, but this small bottle brings a nutty happiness.

Coconut oil will definitely be a friend that never leaves my kitchen.