Coconut Oil

Put the lime in the coconut… This song conjures up good feelings about coconuts- but it doesn’t let you in on the secret of the amazing the coconut oil inside.  Coconut oil has received a bad rap because it is a saturated fat; however it’s health benefits come from medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA).  MCFAs do not increase cholesterol but are in fact very healthy.  They contain lauric acid, the same disease-fighting fatty acid derivative that babies get from their mother’s milk.  MCFAs are metabolized quickly and provide a fast source of energy.  For dogs, MCFAs balance the thyroid, helping overweight dogs lose weight and sedentary dogs feel energetic.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL:

• Reduces allergic reactions
• Helps prevent osteoporosis
• Rejuvenates the skin
• Protects against skin cancer
• Reduces age spots
• Clears acne and other blemishes
• Helps prevent/control diabetes
• Helps balance metabolism and hormones
• Prevents and treats viral, yeast and fungal infections
• Heals digestive disorders
• Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
• Improves cholesterol levels
• Supplies fewer calories than other fats.

USED TOPICALLY:

• Disinfects cuts
• Promotes wound healing
• Improves skin health and hair condition
• Clears up warts, moles, toenail fungus- even diaper rash!

Dogs and humans can both benefit from unrefined or virgin coconut oil, and dogs love the taste.  It is important to start slowly, building up to the recommended dose.  Coconut oil can cause detoxing symptoms as it kills harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, yeasts, and fungi- so headaches, fatigue, diarrhea, and flu-like symptoms are common if given too much too fast.  Start with about ¼ tsp. a day for small dogs and 1 tsp. per day for large dogs, increasing the dosage every few days until reaching the recommended quantity.  Instead of putting the lime in the coconut, just go for the oil!

NOTE:  Coconut oil should be colorless when liquid (above 76 degrees) and solid white when under 75 degrees