In September 2019 researchers from Brazil, USA and Portugal published their review on the effects of coconut oil intake on the cardiometabolic profile. The researchers stated that in recent years, there has been much misinformation concerning the consumption of coconut oil and that those encouraging its use argue that it provides health benefits and protective cardiovascular effects. However, the majority of studies show that coconut oil intake or its supplementation increases LDL(bad)-cholesterol, HDL(good)-cholesterol and total cholesterol when compared with other vegetable oils. It is true that some studies have demonstrated an increase in HDL(good)-cholesterol, but long-term studies are imperative to ascertain whether this effect is clinically relevant. In addition, coconut oil intake has failed as a weight loss strategy and should not be considered as a supplementation strategy. The researchers concluded by suggesting that if an individual wishes to include coconut oil in their diet, then it should be limited and should not exceed 10% of total calorie, which is in line with the current recommendations for saturated fatty acid intake.
Santos HO et al. Coconut oil intake and its effects on the cardiometabolic profile – A structured literature review. Prog Cardiovasc Dis. 2019 Sep – Oct;62(5):436-443