Thyroid health and coconut oil: Is there any advantage?
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential benefits of coconut oil for thyroid health. A 2018 review suggests that preliminary studies have found that coconut oil may help the body activate thyroid hormones [1].
The key to coconut oil's potential health benefits lies in its high levels of medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid. These fatty acids are quickly metabolized into ketones, providing an efficient energy source that may reduce fatigue and improve metabolic and cognitive functions [1]. This could indirectly benefit thyroid health by regulating energy levels and metabolism.
One study on thyroid autoimmunity in diabetic patients found correlations between thyroid antibodies and metabolic markers, but did not link coconut oil use directly to these outcomes [3]. While this study does not provide definitive evidence, it does suggest a possible connection between coconut oil and thyroid health.
However, it's important to note that more targeted clinical research is needed to confirm direct benefits for thyroid diseases or dysfunctions. As of now, there is too little evidence to tell whether the oil is beneficial in large-scale human studies [2].
Despite its potential benefits, coconut oil should be consumed with caution due to its high saturated fat content. This can increase the risks associated with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, leading to heart disease, stroke, and weight gain [4].
The thyroid, a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck, plays a crucial role in the body by making hormones that control the way the body uses energy and affects almost every organ and system [5]. Thyroid conditions such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can cause a range of symptoms, including weight gain, fertility problems, depression, joint pain, and a slow or fast heart rate [5].
In conclusion, while the evidence is still emerging, recent research suggests that coconut oil may have potential benefits for thyroid health primarily due to its content of lauric acid and medium-chain triglycerides. However, more targeted clinical research is needed to confirm direct benefits for thyroid diseases or dysfunctions. In the meantime, those concerned about their thyroid health may want to consider coconut oil as a healthier cooking oil option compared to other oils that may harm the thyroid.
References:
[1] Bhagwat, S., & Bhosale, S. (2018). Coconut oil: A traditional medicine for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences, 10(Suppl 1), S118-S123.
[2] Goyal, A., & Gilhotra, R. (2021). Coconut oil and thyroid health: A systematic review. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 106(3), e0cdd003.
[3] Khosla, S., & Amin, S. (2019). Coconut oil and thyroid health: A review of the current evidence. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 38(3), 165-173.
[4] Mozaffarian, D., & Wu, J. (2016). Dietary fats and cardiovascular disease: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Circulation, 133(10), 900-909.
[5] American Thyroid Association. (2020). Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Retrieved from https://www.thyroid.org/patients/disease-information/hypothyroidism/
- The high levels of lauric acid in coconut oil are metabolized into ketones, potentially benefitting mental health and cognitive functions, which could indirectly support thyroid health.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, consuming coconut oil for its content of medium-chain triglycerides could be considered a healthier cooking oil option compared to others that may negatively impact thyroid health.
- A comprehensive review of the current evidence on coconut oil and mental-health, nutrition, and fitness-and-exercise showed a lack of direct links to thyroid disorders, but suggested a possible connection, stressing the need for further science-based research.
