Can Coconut Oil PreventAlzheimer’s?

August 20, 2014

For many of us who have experiencedAlzheimer’s firsthand, there is no greater fear than having the diseaseourselves one day. But, recent studies suggest that some organic foods andproducts like coconut oil may be able to prevent dementias like Alzheimer’s.

Maintaining Brain Health to PreventDementia

We’re always reading the latest tipson prevention — eat right, reduce stress, get plenty of exercise and keepyour brain engaged in challenging activities. As far as diet, coconut oilcontinues to receive a great deal of attention from advocates like Dr.Mary Newport.

In her 2011 book, “Alzheimer’s Disease:What If There Was a Cure? The Story of Ketones,” Dr. Newport fervently declaresthat her husband has shown clear improvement in his dementia with regular useof coconut oil. In some circles, the topic is rather controversial, but many ofthose with concerns about their cognitive future feel it’s wortha try.

How Coconut Oil Affects the Body and Mind

For best results, experts suggestorganic, cold-pressed, non-hydrogenated, virgin coconut oil — and don’tlet the word “oil” frighten you. Coconut oil is a heart-healthy oil that isfree of cholesterol and trans-fats, and provides many benefits in additionto improving brain health, including:

Improving the body’s use of insulin

Improving cholesterol by increasing HDL(good cholesterol)

Boosting thyroid function resulting inincreased energy

Acting as an antioxidant and naturalantibiotic

Improving overall health of skin and hair

A recent University of Oxfordstudy suggested that although the effects of coconut oil may be temporary,Alzheimer’s and dementia patients have indeed seen short-term benefitsresulting from its use. This research supports Dr. Newport’s theory thatketones, which are byproducts of the breakdown of fats in the body, play animportant role in brain health. The idea is that by boosting ketones, found incoconut oil, we can improve cognitive function.