🍏 Nutrition No-Brainer #3 - Cook with Olive or Coconut Oil


“A happy heart starts with a good oil.”
– Unknown

Unlock Better Health by Choosing Coconut and Olive Oils Over Common Cooking Oils!

Since I started replacing vegetable oils with coconut oil and olive oil at Educogym-Belize, I've noticed a significant improvement in my energy levels, digestion, and even my skin health.

It’s incredible how much of a difference choosing the right oils can make!

Why Are Oils So Important for Your Health?

The oils you choose to cook impact everything from heart health to metabolism.

Many commonly used oils, like vegetable oil, soybean oil, and canola oil, are rich in poly-unsaturated fats, specifically omega-6 fatty acids, which, when consumed in excess, can contribute to inflammation and increase your risk of chronic diseases.

But coconut oil and olive oil are different—they are packed with healthy fats that provide various health benefits, and the best part?

They are far less likely to promote inflammation!

Why Coconut and Olive Oils Are the Better Choice

  • Coconut Oil:

Although high in saturated fat, it contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized differently from other fats.

MCTs are quickly converted into energy and help boost metabolism.

Also, coconut oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting immune health.

  • Olive Oil:

Known for its mono-unsaturated fats (especially oleic acid), olive oil is proven to help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).

The antioxidants in extra virgin olive oil, especially polyphenols, are also known to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, offering strong protection for heart health.

What About Vegetable Oils?

Vegetable oils like soybean and canola oil are often claimed to be "healthy" because they are low in saturated fats.

However, these oils are highly processed and have a high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, which, when consumed in large amounts, can cause oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.

Both of these conditions are linked to heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

How to Use Coconut and Olive Oils for Maximum Benefits

  • Coconut Oil:

Great for high-heat cooking due to its stable saturated fats.

Use it for frying, sautéing, or baking.

It’s a versatile option that can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down into harmful compounds.

  • Olive Oil:

Best used for low to medium-heat cooking, drizzling on salads, or using in dressings.

When possible, choose extra virgin olive oil for its higher antioxidant content, which makes it the healthiest option.

What to Avoid

  • Vegetable Oils:

These oils are often processed and refined, which can destroy beneficial nutrients.

They also contain trans fats and oxidize more easily when heated, producing harmful free radicals that can damage your cells.

  • Soybean Oil:

The high quantity of omega-6 fatty acids in this type of oil can create an imbalance in your body’s fat profile.

This imbalance overwhelms the body, making it struggle to process excess, leading to inflammation and health issues over time.

Additional Resources

Here are other cooking oils mentioned and which to completely avoid by Dr. Ken Berry:

Which Cooking Oils are Safe? (Which to AVOID)

Be wary of the difference between Butter and Margarine, also by Dr. Ken Berry:

Butter vs Margarine (Finally, The TRUTH)

A Simple Step to Try Today:

Switch to coconut oil or olive oil in your cooking!

Start by replacing one vegetable oil-based dish with either of these healthier oils for two weeks.

Track how you feel—energy levels, digestion, and overall well-being—and you’ll be amazed at the difference!

Reply to this email to let me know how switching to the right cooking oils has impacted your cooking and any improvements in mood and energy!


PS...For recipe ideas with olive or coconut oil, check out my Instagram, where I share photos of low-glycemic, ovo-lacto vegetarian recipes made with these healthy oils!

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Emz Hung

Ever feel lost trying to eat healthy and not know where to begin? Healthy eating can be extremely easy with the right systems and informed choices. With Nutrition No-Brainer, I share bi-weekly articles—the LEAST you need to know—to simplify healthy food choices and clear up food myths, making your nutrition decisions a NO-BRAINER!

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