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Coconut oil has become very popular in everything from hair and beauty products to cooking. Coconut oil is often branded as a brand that seems to be good for you, but it is gradually becoming a common ingredient in healthy foods. But contrary to popular belief, coconut oil is not a "good fat" that everyone thinks.

According to a report from the American Heart Association, it turns out that coconut oil is actually worse for you than lard or butter. Beef lard is composed of 50% saturated fat, while butter has a fat content of 63%. At the same time, the saturated fat content of coconut oil is as high as 82%.

The American Heart Association report also includes a review of seven clinical trials examining the relationship between coconut oil and heart disease. The results of all seven studies are the same: Coconut oil raises low-density lipoprotein or "bad" cholesterol levels in the blood.

So what does all this mean for your heart? Cori Russell, MD, a cardiovascular expert at the Henry Ford Health System, explained why attention is needed.

"Saturated fat, which is usually found in meat and dairy products and coconut oil, increases the level of low-density lipoprotein in the blood," said Dr. Russell. "This in turn increases your risk of heart disease, peripheral artery disease and stroke."

Eating foods containing coconut oil can increase the risk of heart disease. The accumulation of fatty plaque causes the arterial walls to harden and narrow, making it difficult for the blood to transport the oxygen and nutrients needed by the organs. Over time, arteries in the head, neck, or heart may block or burst (rupture), causing a heart attack or stroke.

To make matters worse, it only takes a little coconut oil to maximize your daily saturated fat consumption. One tablespoon contains 11 grams, which is close to the 13-gram limit recommended by the American Heart Association. Following these dietary guidelines is one of many ways to stick to a heart-healthy diet.

"Many patients switch from olive oil to coconut oil because they mistakenly believe that coconut oil is healthier," said Dr. Russell. "On the contrary, I recommend using less coconut oil, not for health."

Maintaining a healthy diet is one of many things you can do to take care of your heart. A healthy diet should include fat, but choose options that have less saturated fat and are better for the heart, such as olive oil and vegetable oils. If your favorite dish requires coconut oil, limiting serving size can help you keep saturated fat within the recommended daily limit. You can also focus on eating foods that contain heart-healthy fats, such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts.

Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or find a heart specialist on henryford.com or call 1-800-436-7936.

Dr. Corey Russell is a cardiologist who sees a doctor at the Henry Ford Medical Center-Pearson Clinic on Gross Point Farm.

Labels: Heart, Nutrition, Corey Russell

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