Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is made by pressing fresh coconut meat or dried coconut meat called copra. Coconut oil has a long history in Asia, particularly in tropical regions where the plant is abundant, where it has been used for cooking.

Virgin coconut oil uses fresh meat, while refined coconut oil typically uses copra. Unlike olive oil, the terms “virgin” and “extra virgin” are not regulated with coconut oil. There is no difference in products labeled with these terms.

Coconut oil contains no cholesterol, no fiber, and only traces of vitamins, minerals, and plant sterols. Plant sterols have a chemical structure that mimics blood cholesterol, and may help to block the absorption of cholesterol in the body.