Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Benefits of Coconut Oil

 THE HEALTHY BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL
Although supplements can be a confusing topic 
for many pet owners, most dog owners have heard 
of the benefits of feeding fish oils. There are however, 
a variety of oils that you can also use to your 
dog’s benefit, each with different actions and benefits.

Coconut oil consists of more than 90% saturated fats, 
with traces of few unsaturated fatty acids, such as 
monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. 
Most of the saturated fats in coconut oil are Medium Chain 
Triglycerides (MCTs). The main component (more than 40%) 
of MCTs is lauric acid, followed by capric acid, caprylic acid, 
myristic acid and palmitic. Coconut oil also contains about
 2% linoleic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and about 
6% oleic acid (monounsaturated fatty acids).

Most of the coconut oil benefits come from the MCTs. 
For example, the lauric acid in coconut oil has 
antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. 
Capric and caprylic acid have similar properties and are
 best known for their anti-fungal effects.
 In addition, MCTs are efficiently metabolized to provide
 an immediate source of fuel and energy, enhancing athletic 
performance and aiding weight loss. In dogs, the MCTs in coconut
 oil balance the thyroid, helping overweight dogs lose weight 
and helping sedentary dogs feel energetic.

According to Dr. Bruce Fife, certified nutritionist and naturopathic doctor, 
coconut oil gently elevates the metabolism, provides a higher 
level of energy and vitality, protects you from illness, 
and speeds healing. As a bonus, coconut oil improves any 
dog’s skin and coat, improves digestion, and reduces allergic reactions.
 Fed regularly to pets, coconut oil may have multiple benefits:

Skin Conditions
Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, 
contact dermatitis, and itchy skin
Reduces allergic reactions and improves skin health
Makes coats become sleek and glossy, and deodorizes doggy odor
Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections, including candida
Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing
Applied topically, promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, 
hot spots, dry skin and hair, bites and stings

Digestion
Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
Aids healing of digestive disorders like inflammatory 
bowel syndrome and colitis
Reduces or eliminates bad breath in dogs
Aids in elimination of hairballs and coughing
Immune System, Metabolic function, Bone Health

Contains powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal 
agents that prevent infection and disease
Regulates and balance insulin and promotes normal thyroid function
Helps prevent or control diabetes
Helps reduce weight, increases energy
Aids in arthritis or ligament problems
 Integrative Veterinarian and Naturopathic Doctor, 
Dr. Karen Becker, says “Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) 
have been shown to improve brain energy metabolism 
and decrease the amyloid protein buildup that results in 
brain lesions in older dogs. 
Coconut oil is a rich source of MCTs. 
I recommend 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of 
body weight twice daily for basic MCT support.”
 HEALTHY BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL
The article below has been copied with 
the express permission of the Dogs Naturally Magazine.

Please visit their website for subscription information 
and other informative stories for keeping your pet healthy. http://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/

For more information on Coco Therapy visit:
(I place my order thru Amazon.com)
Visit my Facebook Group page to review the
articles we have on file or to post a health
related question about your westie.
WESTIES HEALTH -- FROM EARS TO TAIL

3 comments:

  1. Coconut oil is great stuff, for sure! We just use the stuff in the jar from Whole Foods and keep it in the fridge. I scoop out a teaspoon sized portion for each of the dogs a few times a week and add it to their raw meals. They love it!

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  2. Will it help people too? I don't have dogs, but I do have coconut oil in my pantry!

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  3. Yes Linda, it is also beneficial for us humans. These coconut oil benefits are indeed effective not only for dogs but also for people. It is indeed healthy that's why I've been using it as my skin and hair moisturizer for so many years already.

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