Question regarding coconut oil concerns:

Anonymous Q: Travis,

I’m sure you’ve probably heard this but I had just recently read an article about Coconut Oil causing a 9% increase in LDL cholesterol. The article is in USA Today “New coconut oil study warns of health claims”, states the American Heart Association claims coconut oil isn’t as healthy as once believed.

More than 80% of that fat is saturated fat, far beyond butter (63%), beef fat (50%) and pork lard (39%), according to AHA. “A tablespoon of coconut oil is about equal to the amount of saturated fat adults should eat in a day”, according to AHA recommendations. When looking for an oil to use in cooking, those with high levels of monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats that lower cholesterol are preferred.

I believe MCT is a derivative of coconut oil. I realize the amount of coconut oil used is a factor as well but honestly MCT is about the only oil I use.

That being said, do you have any thoughts or info about this that would be helpful in my daily use of oil that doesn’t include coconut, mct or even ghee (not a fan unless I make my own but not one I’d want to use often). Not to mention I recently had hormone levels done and my LDL was higher than it should be so it gave me pause to maybe reevaluate mct or coconut oils and switch to something else.

Thoughts? I’m not a knee-jerk kind of person but I do raise an eyebrow concerning LDL increase and the oil I use - want to do the right thing. I trust you’re diligent in your research and homework and would never intentionally lead us astray. I just wanted to put this out there for ya in case you haven’t seen it. I’m sure you’ve probably seen and or heard these things before, just wanted to get your take on it all.

Travis' Answer:

Yeah, I've seen these types of articles for years. As many as there are against coconut oil, there are that many touting the benefits of coconut oil. You have to look at who did the research, who funded the research, etc. MCT oil is 100% MCTs. MCT oil is very beneficial and I believe actually help reduce LDL over time. Most bad cholesterol in the blood comes from your own body producing LDL due to chronic inflammation. The main reason for chronic inflammation is overconsumption of sugar and starch. So, sugar and starch are the main culprits of high LDL cholesterol and not coconut oil or any other oil for that matter.

At the end of the day, it is best to do your own research. Don't take my word for it or any one or two articles word for it. Research many articles and draw your conclusions. Lastly, consult your Physician.

My pick for top oils"

1) 100% MCT Oil optimized for cooking

2) Hemp Oil

3) Coconut Oil

4) Ghee Butter

My remedy to reduce cholesterol.....

1) Exercise ~ Get at least 10,000 steps each day and keep heart rate up to 70% of Max for at least 30 minutes each day.

2) Eat more green plants

3) Eat more fatty fish

4) Cook fatty fish and plants in MCT oil

5) Avoid sugar and starch as if it were instant death

Do this for 6-12 weeks and voila!

I hope this helps and sorry for the delay!

T