Coronavirus coupled with Monsoon makes for perilous times, making us more susceptible than usual, to the much-dreaded flu season. And what could be a better time than now, to switch to a way of life that nurtures both the planet’s health and our own?!
Coconuts are at the heart of everything we do and for a reason. They’re uber-versatile and are a real health-booster. Which is why we’re here to talk about how Coconut Oil works wonders when it comes to boosting immunity. With our immune systems vulnerable to monsoon and its effects, coconut oil’s antiviral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal characteristics make it a must-have addition to our daily routine.
Superfood for Super Health
The health-fanatics of the world use coconut oil in more ways than one can count. And why not, its health benefits have been lauded in Ayurvedic medicine as the next best thing to mother’s milk. Modern research attributes the same immunity-boosting properties to the medium-chain fatty acids and monoglycerides found in both; namely Lauric Acid, Caprylic Acid and Capric Acid.
Mind you, these fatty acids are actually the good kind - prized for being easily digestible, absorbent and cholesterol-free. Once utilized, either via topical application or through ingestion, Lauric Acid breaks down into Monolaurin - said to naturally fight viruses and pathogens to help modulate immunity. Further, the MCTs aid the liver in cleansing blood, and fuel metabolic and digestive function - making it a win-win for us all.
Coconut Oil v/s Immunity Invaders
You know who wins. But how? Here’s what you need to know:
Boosts Immunity: By helping improve white blood cell counts, it helps the body bolster its defences to directly fight nasty microbes
Shields against Pathogens: The metabolites in coconut oil crank up their natural antimicrobial characteristics to create a hostile environment for pathogens
Fights Free Radicals: With the abundant presence of antioxidants, it scavenges free radicals and reduces oxidative stress to fight potential threats head-on
Supercharges Metabolism: Boosting metabolism equals boosting energy, which in turn supports the production of more immune cells to protect us against illnesses
Combats Inflammation: It activates an anti-inflammatory immune response to suppress the inflammation brought on by the microbes trying to attack the body
Supports a Healthy Gut: It enhances digestive function for a stronger gut barrier and better immunity, by restoring healthy gut bacteria and aiding the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients into the body
Protects & Nourishes Skin: Its hydrating barrier shields and nourishes the largest and most important immune organ in the body, against pollutants and disease, inside-out
How to Include Coconut Oil in Your Daily Routine
Oil Pulling: While ensuring all-round oral health, it also supports digestive health by eliminating oil-soluble toxins from our mouths before they can get to our gut. Swish 1 tbsp of oil for about 15–20 min without swallowing, & spit & rinse thereafter to amp up your oral and gut health, daily.
Bulletproof Coffee: Fire up your metabolism and boost your energy while aiding digestive function, with a tbsp of the oil in your morning brew. It helps stimulate digestive and bowel movements along with heart and brain function, fueling your day like no other.
Breakfast Add-On: A dollop of oil to your smoothies, salads, cereal, yoghurt and whatnots, packs a nutrient-dense punch to the most important meal of the day. It provides a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and healthy fats for effective nourishment and detox, all at the same time.
Cooking Companion: Be it sautéing/stir-frying fish, chicken, eggs, and vegetables or baking cakes and cookies, coconut oil is a great alternative to fatty oils and butter - oodles of health sans the resilient fat.
Beauty & Personal Care: From using it as a moisturizer, hair oil, makeup remover, frizz tamer, aftershave, beard oil, shaving cream, lip balm, massage oil to a hair and skin conditioner, there are more uses for it than we can count. Nevertheless, the objective is clear - holistic natural nourishment for a healthy you, every day!
