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The Benefits of Coconut Oil

Discussion in 'Health & Nutrition' started by Vicki, Mar 31, 2014.

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  1. Vicki

    Vicki Administrator Staff Member

    Although supplements can be a confusing topic for many pet owners, most dog owners have heard of the benefits of feeding fish oils. There are however, a variety of oils that you can also use to your dog’s benefit, each with different actions and benefits.

    Coconut oil consists of more than 90% saturated fats, with traces of few unsaturated fatty acids, such as monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Most of the saturated fats in coconut oil are Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs). The main component (more than 40%) of MCTs is lauric acid, followed by capric acid, caprylic acid, myristic acid and palmitic. Coconut oil also contains about 2% linoleic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and about 6% oleic acid (monounsaturated fatty acids).

    Most of the coconut oil benefits come from the MCTs. For example, the lauric acid in coconut oil has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. Capric and caprylic acid have similar properties and are best known for their anti-fungal effects.

    In addition, MCTs are efficiently metabolized to provide an immediate source of fuel and energy, enhancing athletic performance and aiding weight loss. In dogs, the MCTs in coconut oil balance the thyroid, helping overweight dogs lose weight and helping sedentary dogs feel energetic.

    According to Dr. Bruce Fife, certified nutritionist and naturopathic doctor, coconut oil gently elevates the metabolism, provides a higher level of energy and vitality, protects you from illness, and speeds healing. As a bonus, coconut oil improves any dog’s skin and coat, improves digestion, and reduces allergic reactions.

    Fed regularly to pets, coconut oil may have multiple benefits:

    Skin Conditions

    Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact dermatitis,and itchy skin
    Reduces allergic reactions and improves skin health
    Makes coats become sleek and glossy, and deodorizes doggy odor
    Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections, including candida
    Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing
    Applied topically, promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, hot spots, dry skin and hair, bites and stings

    Digestion

    Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
    Aids healing of digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis
    Reduces or eliminates bad breath in dogs
    Aids in elimination of hairballs and coughing

    Immune System, Metabolic Function, Bone Health


    Contains powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal agents that prevent infection and disease
    Regulates and balance insulin and promotes normal thyroid function
    Helps prevent or control diabetes
    Helps reduce weight, increases energy
    Aids in arthritis or ligament problems

    Integrative Veterinarian and Naturopathic Doctor, Dr. Karen Becker, says “Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have been shown to improve brain energy metabolism and decrease the amyloid protein buildup that results in brain lesions in older dogs. Coconut oil is a rich source of MCTs. I recommend 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of body weight twice daily for basic MCT support.”

    The Health Benefits Of Coconut Oil | Dogs Naturally Magazine
     
  2. BLUE8BULL

    BLUE8BULL CH Dog

    .....interesting...read,,,,it's one oil type i never tried,,,good threads..3mta....
     
  3. bgblok68

    bgblok68 CH Dog

    Coconut oil is some good stuff for man or beast. lol
     
  4. Beatrix Kiddo

    Beatrix Kiddo Top Dog

    Both my dog and I ingest coconut oil. I also drink coconut water on a regular basis.
     
  5. iv been using coconut oil with my boy since reading this post, he has flea hypersensitivity and his skin gets a beating from the slightest contact with fleas he ends up with scabs and lumps, i tried applying it topically as well as in his food along with the usual de flea routine and since then his skin and coat are great one of the larger lumps i applied it to topically shrunk drastically overnight and i also noticed an increase in energy but that may just be due to no longer having the skin issue either way he loves the stuff hes over like a rocket when i open the container and its worked wonders.
     

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