Something I’ve been somewhat confused about is the health effects of saturated fat in coconut oil. Coconut oil is very high in saturated fat, but I’ve read things that suggest that there are mitigating factors that somehow prevent this particular saturated fat from significantly raising one’s LDL cholesterol, like butter would for example. Is this really the case? Or is coconut oil one of the worst (health-wise) fats that one can consume?

I do like snacking on nuts and I probably like them all. From a nutritional viewpoint, (assuming non salted and non toasted/dressed are best) which varieties are particularly beneficial? Is a selection better than one single type?

Thanks
Paul

Nick, thanks for your excellent question. Coconut oil is definitely one of those areas where there are a whole lot of different opinions and conflicting information. To be honest, I don’t have a firm opinion on whether it’s good or bad for your health at the moment. So, I’m going to pass on your question for this week’s Q & A Thursday, in order that I can spend some extra time researching the subject. Instead I’ll post an answer over the coming week. Sorry, but I want to get things right before posting about coconut oil on Limes & Lycopene.

Paul, thanks for your question and for taking part in Q & A Thursday. You’ll find your answer here!