If you want to reap the most benefits out of coconut oil, it's best to choose virgin type because same as olive oil, virgin coconut oil gets to retain the greatest amount of nutrients for maximum health benefits in the process of oil extraction.
No other types of coconut oil can match the health benefits of virgin coconut oil. Let me explain. Virgin (unrefined) coconut oil is extracted via cold pressed (very low temperature) method with zero chemicals added, which retain its full nutritional values for maximum health benefits.
Moreover, due to its completely unaltered (natural) fatty acid structure, unrefined or virgin coconut oil penetrates your skin well and does not clog your skin pores when you use it topically. Refined oil (such as hydrogenated RBD etc) will obstruct your pores by contrast.
On top of that, as we're being exposed to free radicals all day long through breathing, interacting and eating etc, we need antioxidants to help keep us free from the attack of free radicals. Free radicals are very tiny particles in the air (invisible to eyes) that when entered our body, can cause deterioration of immune system which further leads to host of health problems such as speed aging, triggering of cancers or other degenerative diseases.
Virgin coconut oil contains high level of antioxidants, which are particularly useful in fighting free radicals, as it is unrefined and hasn't been stripped off of any of its natural components through the refining process. Also, virgin oil by nature does not easily cause allergic reaction (i.e. it's hypoallergenic), so you can safely use it in your diet or topically for health benefits. But it's best to apply a small amount to your skin and see if any adverse reaction takes place if you're a first time user.
Refined oil is never as superior as its unrefined counterpart. But for commercial companies, they'd prefer refined coconut oil since it can withstand higher heat before it melts, which makes it possible for them to make ice-cream, chocolate and other foods to maintain the shape of the food for a longer duration.
But for your personal skin and health benefits, go with virgin coconut oil always, if you're okay with the mild natural aromatic coconut flavor in the oil (which are pleasing to most people).
By the way, in case you encounter some companies labeling their oil as Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, actually, it means the same as virgin coconut oil. They name it in such a way probably to "inform" consumers of their premium quality oil than any other brands out there. In other words, only olive oil comes with its distinctive classification of 'extra virgin' and 'virgin', but not coconut oil.
So, whether 'extra virgin coconut oil' or simply 'virgin coconut oil', there's essentially no difference in their health benefits.
Is Coconut Oil as Nutritious as Whole Coconut?
Coconut oil and whole coconut each offer unique nutritional benefits. Coconut oil is a rich source of saturated fats, especially lauric acid, which has notable health advantages. In contrast, whole coconut provides a more comprehensive array of nutrients including carbohydrates, proteins, and essential minerals. This detailed exploration compares the nutritional content and health implications of coconut oil versus whole coconut, helping you make informed dietary choices.
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