Can we really get nuts over coconuts? In recent studies, coconut oil— a medium chain fatty acid—has been proven to improve thyroid function. For the many women and men who have hypothyroidism, the use of coconut oil in the diet can help to restore the function of their thermostat for metabolism.

According to the experts, about 50% of women who complain about weight problems go undiagnosed with thyroid problems. Most women have never had their thyroid checked. With the onset of menopause, a thyroid problem typically worsens.

The thyroid, the thermostat for metabolism, lies across the throat like a butterfly. When the thermostat is set and running along, you feel and look great. However, if the setting is low or slow, you can feel tired and sluggish, and your weight can start to climb. Other signs you might notice are: flaky or dry skin, headaches, depression or mood swings, constipation, insomnia, hair loss, high cholesterol, difficulty with concentration or memory and difficulty staying warm. You should consult your physician about blood tests that test your T3 and T4 levels, but some tests are inconclusive or fail to catch the condition altogether.

Research has found that taking three tablespoons of coconut oil a day can increase your calorie-burning power by up to 50%. Even if you don’t have thyroid problems, taking coconut oil is worth trying since it is a food and not a drug and is free of side effects. Other studies have shown that by substituting coconut oil for other plant-based oils, some people have lost up to 36 pounds per year without dieting.

You can find coconut oil in health food stores. For suggested reading, go to www.coconut-info.com or look for the books Eat Fat, Look Thin and The Healing Miracles of Coconut Oil by Bruce Fife, N.D. on http://www.amazon.com/

O.K. We’ve all probably heard all of the wonderful things about coconut oil right? Sounds like the next wonder come true. Well, I’m not too sure about this one. The jury is still out on coconut oil for me. Not that I’m discounting it, I just don’t know for myself.

I know that coconut oil is great for the skin; I’ve used it in massage for the reduction of cellulite and massage. It was great for the rejuvenation of the skin. However, as far as internal intake it may not be great for everyone.

Most of us have heard of “Eating right for your blood type”. I personally stick fairly close to this diet, but if you look at the “oils to avoid”, across the board, coconut oil is on that list for As, Bs and Os. If this is true, coconut oil should be avoided by everyone.

I need to do more research on this subject before I make a final judgment. This subject is like many others…everyone seems to have a different opinion. Until then I’ll stick to good-old favorites-olive, flax, hemp and grapeseed.

If you have any information on this subject, please share!