Tag: Lauric acid

According to some estimates, up to 80% of people diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) may also have Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). For those managing SIBO, finding the right dietary fats is crucial, which often leads to the question: is coconut oil ok for SIBO?

Around 50% of the fats in cold-pressed coconut oil are made up of lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid with powerful antimicrobial properties. But what does cold-pressed coconut oil do to the body beyond its microbial effects? Its benefits range from providing a quick energy source to enhancing skin and hair health.

In recent years, studies have investigated the potential antibacterial properties of coconut products. It's a common claim in natural health circles, but what does the science say about whether coconuts are antibacterial? The answer lies primarily in certain fatty acids found in coconut oil, which possess potent antimicrobial capabilities.

Several studies indicate that coconut-derived products contain compounds with antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties. This has led many to wonder: is coconut milk anti-fungal, and can it be used as a natural remedy for yeast and other fungal issues?

Addressing a fungal infection often involves medical treatment, and considering dietary adjustments is a common question. Many wonder: can I eat coconut during fungal infection? It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment before making significant dietary changes.

Approximately 50% of the fatty acids in coconut oil consist of lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid with unique properties when metabolized by the body. Exploring what lauric acid does to your body reveals its diverse roles, from potent antimicrobial action to its complex effects on metabolism and cholesterol.

Sodium lauroyl lactylate, a popular ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products, is naturally derived from the combination of lactic acid and lauric acid. This biodegradable, plant-based emulsifier is created through a chemical process that transforms simple, renewable components into a powerful and gentle surfactant.

According to a 2023 study published in the Turkish Journal of Parasitology, coconut oil extracts showed promising therapeutic efficacy against cryptosporidiosis in infected mice. The primary antiparasitic effect is attributed to its medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), particularly lauric acid, which can disrupt the cell membranes of various pathogens.

While often marketed as a high-MCT superfood, whole coconut oil contains only about 54% medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and a significant amount of the more slowly digested lauric acid. For a concentrated dose of the most readily available MCTs, refined MCT oil is a more potent option.

Derived from lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid found abundantly in coconut oil and breast milk, monolaurin is often used as a dietary supplement for its antimicrobial properties. Concerns regarding saturated fats have led many to question, does monolaurin raise cholesterol and impact heart health?