While Dr. Oz and health experts are touting the benefits of coconut oil, the lack of scientific evidence indicates otherwise. However, this trendy ingredient hit supermarket shelves only recently. The saturated fat found in chocolate was once demonized as a contributor to heart disease, yet is now believed to be safe. So coconut lovers everywhere, remain hopeful!
If you prefer to stick with olive oil, go right ahead. Until we have more information, continue to use coconut oil sparingly. If you are not using it at all, there is no need to start (yet!).
What we do know is that unsaturated fats are heart healthy. Aim to include these in your diet instead of those made of saturated fats (butter, lard, coconut or palm oil) or trans-fats (partially hydrogenated oils).
For more information on how to incorporate healthy fats into your family’s diet, visit choosemyplate.gov.
