Coconut oil is wonderfully versatile.
It can be incorporated into skin and hair care and providea variety of health benefitsin the diet.
One popular and somewhat surprising way that people like to consume coconut oil is as a coffee additive.
Why do people put coconut oil into coffee?
Coffeeandcoconut oilboth come with their own benefits and side effects.
Many people also enjoy the rich flavor that coconut oil lends to coffee.
It’s buttery, and, believe it or not, it can make your coffee quite creamy.
What does putting coconut oil in coffee do?
For starters, caffeine sources likecoffee and espressoare what is called “adenosine blockers1.”
Adenosine is a neurotransmitter that promotes sleepiness.
The caffeine locks into the adenosine receptors, blocking sleepiness in the brain.
At the same time, caffeine stimulates the release of energizing neurotransmitters such asdopamine.
Now, onto coconut oil.
Coconut oil is a plant-based fat source.
MCTs are metabolized in a way that provides quick fuel for the body.
Research4shows that coconut oil and its MCTs may have a protective effect againstcancer5,diabetes6, andAlzheimer’s disease7.
Like coffee, coconut oil also hasantioxidant8properties that can fight oxidative stress.
So, what happens when you combine coconut oil and coffee?
Summary
Science-backed health benefits of coconut oil in coffee:
It’s energizing.
Coconut oil is also a quickly metabolized energy source.
By consuming the two together, you’re getting two energizing ingredients in one cup.
It may enhance mental alertness and cognitive function.
Coffee has been shown toenhance mental alertness9andboost cognitive function10in both the short and long term.
Alzheimer’s is characterized by a reduced ability to utilize carbohydrates/glucose as fuel.
It may regulate blood sugar.
Coconut oil is thought toincrease insulin sensitivity13, which is helpful inbalancing blood sugar.
This is important becausecoffee can spike blood sugar in the short term14especially if you drink it with sweetener.
It may support digestion and gut health.
Thelauric acid in coconut oil is also antimicrobial16, which might contribute toa more balanced microbiome16.
Coconut oil containscaprylic acid17, too, which hasantimicrobial properties18of its own.
And just see to it you’re notrelyingon your morning coffee to have a bowel function.
Here are a few gut-healthy habits that willget things moving naturally.
It may enhance satiety, leading to weight loss.
Fans of the keto diet often tout coconut oil as an effective tool forhealthy weight loss19.
It may support a healthy immune response.
Coconut oil offers impressive immune protection.
you’re free to benefit from these effects when consuming coconut oil orusing it topically.
As for the role of coffee, research on the effects of caffeine on immune function is more limited.
It may benefit the skin.
Polyphenols in coffee seem toprotect skin from sun damage28, while coconut oil offers antibacterial andanti-inflammatory benefits29.
It may help you stay in ketosis.
How to use coconut oil in coffee.
There are two main types of coconut oil:unrefined (also called virgin) and refined coconut oil.
They differ slightly, but both can be included in your coffee.
If you prefer a subtler coconut taste, opt for the refined, more heavily processed version.
To get started, add1 to 2 tablespoons of your coconut oilof choice to 12 oz.
If you’re new to the practice, start with 1 tablespoon to see how your body responds.
Combine hot coffee and coconut oil in the blender, whir for 30 seconds or so, and enjoy.
Can I put coconut oil in my coffee while fasting?
Coconut oil in coffee will technicallybreak your fast(sorry).
Sipping aBulletproof-style coffeecan also be helpful here.
Can I drink coconut oil in coffee on the keto diet?
The fat in coconut oil is helpful in pushing your body toward ketosis.
Here’s ourbeginner guide to the keto dietif you’re just getting started.
Safety and side effects.
Those who are watching their fat intake for medical reasons will want to use it cautiously.
Caffeine also comes withside effects of its own34.
Start with a small amount of coconut oil (roughly 1 tablespoon) to help prevent this.
Coconut oil vs. other coffee additives.
MCT oilis another popular coffee additive.
The one major bonus that you get with coconut oil is lauric acid, anantimicrobial, antiviral16powerhouse.
Lauric acid is typically removed in the production of MCT oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is coconut oil better than MCT oil in coffee?
It depends on your goal.
How much coconut oil should you put in coffee for weight loss?
One to 2 tablespoons of coconut oilshould be enough to fill you up, without causing digestive upset.
But everyone’s different, so you’ll need to experiment to find the right amount for you.
Does coconut oil in coffee make you poop?
It depends on the person, but yes, both coffee and coconut oil have a laxative effect.
