Coconut oil has rapidly grown in popularity as a result of its impressive versatility. From its health benefits and cosmetic applications, to its use in cooking, there’s not much this miracle oil cannot do. Considered a superfood, coconut oil is naturally antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory – properties that allow it to impart its countless benefits for just about every area of your body. However, not all coconut oils are optimal for health with many differences being present in processing methods as well as the quality of the coconuts used.

Garden of Life’s Raw Virgin Coconut Oil is made from only young, organically grown coconuts. It is produced using the same methods farmers have used for centuries. Meat from only the freshest, organically grown coconuts is shredded and then cold-pressed in a heat-controlled environment which keeps temperatures below 116°F, maintaining oil integrity and its properties. Once the coconut milk has been created, it is then filtered and separated to extract only the highest quality oil. Raw Virgin Coconut from Garden of Life is USDA Certified Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, RAW and Vegan Certified. Most importantly, it is processed as little as possible, which is revealed in the slight yellow marbling and the fragrant coconut smell. Unlike refined coconut oil, Raw Virgin Coconut Oil is not hydrogenated, deodorized, bleached or refined – making it the most wholesome coconut oil on the planet.

Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids or triglycerides (MCTs) – a type of saturated fat – which are readily digested and converted to energy by the body. For this reason, MCTs can be beneficial for individuals suffering from various conditions such as malabsorption, digestive illnesses, neurological diseases and much more. MCTs also increase calorie burning, promote fat oxidation and increase satiety, making it an excellent addition to weight loss regimens or to exercise and diet plans for athletes or anyone looking to increase muscle mass. Coconut oil can also be incorporated as a component in ketogenic, paleo or various other types of diets.

Aside from its many health benefits, Raw Virgin Coconut Oil is a great addition to cooking and baking. Unlike many other types of oils, it does not oxidize nor does it become rancid very easily. It also has a prolonged shelf life. When used raw, it adds creamy richness to smoothies, salad dressings and desserts. While in cooking and baking, it provides superb texture and a delicious taste but most importantly, it has a higher smoke point. Coconut oil is a superior choice for cooking or baking due to its saturated fat content which is more stable and allows it to withstand higher temperatures as compared to other oils.

Raw Virgin Coconut Oil is a cold-pressed Raw Certified USDA Organic Non-GMO Coconut oil which provides approximately 10 grams of MCTs per serving size which includes lauric acid, caprylic acid and capric acid. Raw Virgin Coconut Oil is one of the healthiest, most delicious and highly versatile oils in the world because, unlike others, it is not hydrogenated, bleached, refined or deodorized.

Antioxidant Smoothie

Ingredients:
1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, coconut, cashew, etc.)
½ cup frozen berries (raspberries, blueberries or berry mix)
1 scoop of your favourite protein powder (such as All in One Nutritional shake or Raw Organic Protein from Garden of Life)
1 tablespoon Raw Virgin Coconut Oil from Garden of Life
1 tsp raw cacao powder
1 tsp maca powder or acai, or goji powder
Optional: 4-5 ice cubes

Directions: Put ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

About the Author: Garden of Life Team

Garden of Life is fanatical about food! Whether making a vitamin, a probiotic, or a protein powder, they always start with real foods and these foods provide our formulas the power to be their best. Always Organic and Non-GMO. Learn more at gardenoflife.com