Generally classified as one of the few alkaline oils, many health advocates recommend it when following an alkaline diet. However, because of the varied extraction processes, coconut oil can potentially be classified as acidic or alkaline.
Table of Contents
- 1 What Is The pH Of Coconut Oil?
- 2 Why Do People Debate Whether Coconut Oil Is Acidic Or Alkaline?
- 3 How Is Coconut Oil Extracted?
- 4 How Is Coconut Oil Used in Cooking?
- 5 Does Coconut Oil Neutralize Acid?
- 6 What Are The Benefits Of Coconut Oil?
- 7 What Other Oils Can Be Used on An Alkaline Diet?
- 8 In Summary
What Is The pH Of Coconut Oil?
The pH of coconut oil is between 7-8, making it a slightly alkaline substance. This means it falls on the opposite side of the acid/alkaline spectrum as vinegar, which has a pH of 2.5.
Why Do People Debate Whether Coconut Oil Is Acidic Or Alkaline?
There are a lot of misconceptions about coconut oil out there. Some people think that it’s an alkaline food, while others believe that it’s acidic. So, what’s the truth? Is coconut oil alkaline or acidic?
Well, the answer isn’t quite so simple. The truth is that coconut oil can be both alkaline and acidic, depending on how it’s processed.
If a traditional extraction process is used to make the oil, then it can be acidic.
However, if a cold-processing method is used instead, then the skin of the coconut will keep its alkaline composition and the oil will be less acidic.
How Is Coconut Oil Extracted?
Coconut oil is a tropical oil that is derived from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts. It has a high saturated fat content, which gives it a long shelf life and makes it resistant to rancidity.
There are three extraction methods used to create coconut oil. These results in different categories of coconut oil (Virgin, Refined, and Hydrogenated Coconut Oil) each used for a different purpose:
Virgin Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil is made using fresh, mature coconuts that are mechanically pressed in order to separate the oil from the meat.
This is the least processed way of extracting the oil using no heat or chemical agents. Virgin coconut retains the strongest scent and flavor. It is also known as cold processing and will be the most alkaline in nature.
Refined Coconut Oil
Refined coconut oil is also mechanically pressed, but also involves additional processing. It is treated with bleaching clay to remove impurities and heated with steam to remove the coconut taste and scent.
The additional processing helps the oil reach a higher smoke point so is a good candidate for frying or sauteing foods.
Hydrogenated Coconut Oil
Hydrogenated coconut oil is primarily used in commercial baking. It is the least healthy of the three since it includes both saturated and trans fats.
How Is Coconut Oil Used in Cooking?
Coconut oil is a great cooking oil because it tolerates high heat without smoking, splattering, or releasing harmful fumes like other oils do.
This means that you can use coconut oil in place of traditional oils when frying or sauteing foods.
It also has a long shelf life and can be stored at room temperature. Coconut oil is solid at cooler temperatures and liquid when warmed, so it’s best to store it in a cool, dark place.
Many health-conscious consumers prefer cold-pressed coconut oil because they consider the oil to be purer and less processed—although it is not technically “raw.”
When using coconut oil for cooking, remember that a little goes a long way! Its unique flavor is best used in small amounts to complement your eating pattern.
What Are Some Recipes That Use Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Here are some recipes that use coconut oil:
-Cookies: Coconut oil can be substituted for butter in baking using a 1:1 ratio. Try these coconut oil chocolate chip cookies for a delicious and easy treat!
-Muffins: Muffins are a great way to start the day, and with this recipe, you can add some healthy coconut oil to your breakfast routine. Try these healthier blueberry muffins from Cookie and Kate.
-Pies and Cakes: Coconut oil is perfect for adding moisture and flavor to baked goods. This recipe for chocolate cake includes melted coconut oil, making it rich and decadent.
Does Coconut Oil Neutralize Acid?
Coconut oil is a natural way to reduce acid reflux. When you have acid reflux, your stomach acids escape from your stomach and back up into your esophagus. This can cause pain and damage to the esophagus over time.
Coconut oil coats the esophagus and lining of the throat, which neutralizes the stomach acids and reduces the risk of damage.
Additionally, coconut oil has antibacterial properties that may help to reduce the overgrowth of bacteria in the stomach. This could also help to reduce acid reflux symptoms.
What Are The Benefits Of Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is a popular food and ingredient that has been around for centuries. It is used in both cooking and beauty products, and people often swear by its health benefits. But what are they?
Healthline list several benefits of coconut oil. Some of these benefits include:
- Provides a quick source of energy
- Has antimicrobial and anti-fungal effects
- Reduces hunger
- High in antioxidents
- Is a natural moisturizer
Coconut oil is also popular in several diet trends including the Ketogenic and Paleo diets. Some people claim it can help you lose weight or improve your cholesterol levels, but there haven’t been enough studies or hard evidence to support these claims just yet.
Based on the current evidence and analysis performed by Harvard Medical School, coconut oil is neither a superfood nor harmful to your health. The truth is it falls somewhere in between the two ends of the spectrum.
The article goes on to explain the reason for the debate is the type of oil. The type of coconut oil that was used in these studies uses a unique formation of 100% medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). This is not same oil that is available for sale in our food markets which contains primarily lauric acid.
The lauric acid is absorbed and metabolized much more slowly than MCT. This means the reported health benefits from specially constructed MCT coconut oil cannot be applied to the coconut oil we find in our local stores.
Regardless of the debate, coconut oil has many qualities that are easy to appreciate. It has a mild flavor and aroma that many people enjoy. And the versatility in the kitchen make it a great condiment to have on hand.
And while we may not be sure of all the benefits, it is still considered one of the healthier oil choices.
How Can I Use Coconut Oil For My Hair?
Coconut oil is a popular DIY treatment to improve the shine and texture of your hair. It can be used as both a hair mask and deep-conditioning treatment.
The treatment can be as short as 30 minutes or overnight, based on how dry or damaged your hair is.
How Is Coconut Oil Used In Dental Health?
In Ayurvedic medicine, coconut oil has been used for centuries to clean and whiten teeth, reduce bad breath, and improve the health of your gums.
This is accomplished by what is known as oil pulling. Oil pulling is the process of swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for 10 to 15 minutes. The swishing process helps dislodge bacteria and remove plaque buildup.
Coconut oil also contains high amounts of Lauric acid which has antimicrobial properties which help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
What Other Oils Can Be Used on An Alkaline Diet?
When following an alkaline diet plan, sesame oil, avocado oil grapeseed oil can all be used in cooking.
In dressings and salads, flaxseed oil and sunflower oils are two other popular choices. These oils are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are also essential for a healthy body.
In Summary
Coconut oil is actually alkaline in nature. Virgin coconut oil in particular is the least processed and retains its classic coconut aroma and taste.
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