How to take coconut oil for brain health?

Coconut oil has recently gained popularity as a potential superfood for overall health and wellness. More specifically, emerging research suggests that incorporating coconut oil into your diet may offer unique benefits for brain health and cognition. This article explores the science behind using coconut oil to boost brain power and provides practical tips on how to take coconut oil for brain health.

Coconut oil’s unique composition of fatty acids and nutrients shows promise in supporting brain function, protecting against dementia and neurological diseases, and even alleviating symptoms in those already affected. While more rigorous scientific studies are still needed, current evidence and anecdotal reports have prompted many people to start taking coconut oil supplements or adding it to their diets. Read on to understand the basics of coconut oil, the mechanisms behind its brain-boosting potential, current scientific research, and how to safely use coconut oil for optimal brain health.

Understanding the Basics

What is coconut oil?

Coconut oil is an edible oil extracted from the meat of mature coconuts. It has been used for thousands of years in cooking, medicine, and cosmetics. Unlike most other vegetable oils, coconut oil is very high in saturated fats.

The composition of coconut oil: Fatty acids and their significance

Coconut oil contains a unique composition of fatty acids and nutrients:

Fatty Acid/Nutrient	Function
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs)	Around 62-65% of the fatty acids in coconut oil are MCTs like lauric acid and caprylic acid. MCTs are efficiently metabolized by the body and have shown particular promise in supporting brain energy and function.
Lauric acid	Comprising over 45% of coconut oil, lauric acid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to neurological health.
Vitamin E	Coconut oil contains a form of vitamin E that has antioxidant effects important for brain health.
Ketones	Coconut oil MCTs are readily converted into ketones, an alternative brain fuel source that can be beneficial in certain conditions.

How can coconut oil benefit brain health?

The brain’s reliance on healthy fats

The brain relies heavily on a steady supply of healthy fats. Unlike other organs, the brain cannot efficiently use carbohydrates for energy. Instead, it requires a constant fuel source from fats called ketones [¹]. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) found in coconut oil are directly converted to ketones in the liver, providing an alternative brain fuel source to glucose [²]. This gives coconut oil a unique advantage for cognitive health.

Research results suggest that coconut oil intake may improve brain health by directly activating ketogenesis in astrocytes and thereby providing fuel to neighboring neurons.
Lauric Acid Stimulates Ketone Body Production in the KT-5 Astrocyte Cell Line.

Scientific Studies and Evidence

So far, most studies on coconut oil and brain health have been conducted on animals or in small human trials. However, early research shows promising effects.

Research on coconut oil and Alzheimer’s disease

Several studies have examined coconut oil’s effects on Alzheimer’s patients, with some promising results:

• In the study by Y. Nonaka et al., Alzheimer’s patients taking MCT supplements showed improved memory after 45 and 90 days.
• A pilot study by J.E. de la Rubia Ortí et al. found that an MCT-rich diet improved cognitive scores in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s.
• However, a recent meta-analysis concluded that there is not yet enough evidence to specifically recommend coconut oil for preventing or treating dementia.

Mood and Stress: Coconut oil restored antioxidant status and reduced immobility in rats under stressful conditions, suggesting anti-anxiety effects [³]. It also alleviates oxidative stress in the brain [⁴].

Brain Injuries: Coconut oil repaired myelin sheath damage and reduced inflammation in animal models of traumatic brain injury (TBI) [⁵]. This demonstrates potential uses for recovery after concussion.

Stroke: Coconut oil prevented neuronal loss and improved motor function in rats after an induced stroke, indicating neuroprotective effects [⁶].

While results appear promising, longer-term and larger human trials are still needed. It’s unclear if coconut oil can reverse or prevent neurodegeneration on its own, though it shows potential as a supportive dietary addition.

Learn about the Healthy and Useful Benefits of Coconut Oil by Dr. Hansaji Yogendra

Dr. Hansaji Yogendra discusses the various benefits and applications of coconut oil, focusing on its role in dental health, cooking, and skincare. She offers insights into how to make the most of this versatile oil.

Dental Health through Oil Pulling

• Coconut oil can be used as a mouthwash to detoxify and maintain dental health. This is known as oil pulling or Gandush.
• It contains antioxidants that purify and keep the risk of infections at bay.
• Swishing 2 spoons of coconut oil for 5-10 minutes can pull out bacteria and harmful germs, improving oral hygiene.

Cooking with Coconut Oil

• Coconut oil is a healthy alternative for cooking as it can withstand high temperatures.
• It helps in increasing good cholesterol and improves metabolism.
• It can be a substitute for butter and aids in weight loss by accelerating fat burning.

Skincare and Haircare

• Coconut oil hydrates the skin and hair
• It is good for bone health and increases collagen to prevent skin diseases.
• A combination of tea tree oil and coconut oil can help with hair loss and dry scalp.

Additional Tips

• Coconut oil can be used for massaging as it is anti-inflammatory and soothes muscles.
• It is advisable to use oils according to the region you live in and the season.

What Type of Coconut Oil is Best for Brain Health?

The best type of coconut oil for brain health is virgin coconut oil. Virgin coconut oil is the least processed form of coconut oil and retains the most nutrients, including antioxidants and polyphenols. These nutrients are thought to play a role in protecting the brain from damage and improving cognitive function.

According to the study “Antistress and antioxidant effects of virgin coconut oil in vivo” virgin coconut oil (VCO) has been found to reduce immobility time and restore oxidative stress in mice post-swim test, exhibit higher levels of brain antioxidants, lower levels of brain 5-hydroxytryptamine and reduced weight of the adrenal glands, and lower serum cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose and corticosterone levels, suggesting the potential value of VCO as an antistress functional oil.

Virgin coconut oil is also a good source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are a type of fat that is easily digested and absorbed by the body. They can also be converted into ketones, which are an alternative energy source for the brain.

How to Incorporate Coconut Oil into Your Diet

Here are some easy ways to add it to your diet:

• Use coconut oil for cooking eggs, meats, stir-fries, etc. Instead of butter on toast or vegetables.
• Add to smoothies, coffee, or tea as a creamer.
• Eat with the spoonful plain or with berries, bananas, etc.
• Make homemade energy bars/balls with coconut oil, oats, nuts, and dried fruit.
• Take coconut oil capsules if you don’t like the taste.

Opt for virgin or extra-virgin coconut oil, which is less processed and retains more antioxidants [⁷]. Start with a small amount like 1 teaspoon daily and gradually increase over 2 weeks to avoid digestive issues. Also, stay hydrated and eat fiber-rich foods to mitigate potential diarrhea or stomach discomfort.

Those taking blood thinners or seizure medications should consult a doctor before using coconut oil, which can increase medication absorption in some cases [⁸]. Discontinue use if you experience negative side effects or interactions with medications or other supplements.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While generally safe at moderate dietary intakes, coconut oil does have some potential side effects to be aware of:

• Digestive issues like diarrhea or stomach cramps may occur, especially at high intakes. Reduce your dosage and/or the amount you increase weekly if this occurs [⁹]. Staying hydrated and eating high-fiber foods can help minimize discomfort.
• High LDL cholesterol is possible, though the evidence is mixed. Monitor your cholesterol levels and adjust saturated fat intake if needed [¹⁰].
• Allergic reactions are rare but possible if you have a coconut allergy. Discontinue use if any symptoms like rash, itching, or swelling occur.
• Blood sugar impacts are unlikely at 1-3 tablespoons daily but monitor levels if diabetic, especially at higher intakes [¹¹].

As with any supplement, consult a doctor before using coconut oil if you have any ongoing health conditions or take medications regularly. While generally safe, coconut oil is not for everyone. Monitor your response closely.

Comparing to Other Brain-Boosting Oils

Coconut oil supplies direct energy, while fish oil provides anti-inflammatory omega-3s. Olive oil offers antioxidant support. A balance of different oils is recommended for overall brain health.

Oil	Main Benefits	Considerations
Coconut oil	Provides MCTs for ketone energy; anti-inflammatory	Can cause digestive issues
Fish oil	Omega-3 fatty acids fight inflammation and support neurons	Fishy aftertaste; mercury concerns with some fish
Olive oil	Antioxidant polyphenols may improve learning and memory	Lower smoke point; lacks MCTs

Fish Oil vs. Coconut Oil: Which is Better?

Both offer unique brain benefits. Fish oil provides essential omega-3s EPA and DHA. Coconut oil supplies MCTs for ketone energy. A balance provides optimal effects.

The Role of Olive Oil in Cognitive Health

Olive oil contains antioxidant polyphenols that may protect the brain and support cognition. However, it lacks the MCTs found in coconut oil.

Balancing Different Oils for Optimal Brain Health

A combination of oils can support overall brain structure, energy, inflammation, and antioxidant status. Rotate coconut, olive, avocado, and fish oils.

Summary

While coconut oil may provide unique cognitive benefits, it should be combined with overall healthy nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, quality sleep, social engagement, and mentally stimulating activities for the best brain health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5187102/ ↩︎
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4591635/ ↩︎
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24321064/ ↩︎
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5044790/ ↩︎
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5385166/ ↩︎
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6690399/ ↩︎
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4247320/ ↩︎
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6104744/ ↩︎
9. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/coconut-oil ↩︎
10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4892314/ ↩︎
11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6104744/ ↩︎