coconut and coconut oil

Question
I come from a part of India where coconut and coconut oil are used a lot in cooking.I now live in the USA.I was wondering if coconut and its products are healthy since they contain saturated fats.We do eat dairy but not eggs or any kind of meat.Is it ok to give my kids [age 2 and 4] food made from coconut and coconut oil or will it lead to heart conditions or obesity?
Thanks
[basic knowledge of biochemistry can be assumed]

Answer
Hi Geetha,

Although coconut oil contains saturated fats, the latest research suggests that it is actually a beneficial oil. In areas of the world where there is a high usage of coconut oil, the incidence of heart disease is very low. I would not be concerned about including coconut oil in your children's diets - there is no evidence that it is detrimental, and there may well be health benefits to doing so. Just make sure you are using products that are as unprocessed as possible (not hydrogenated,etc).

Karen
www.getfitwithkaren.com

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