The difference between refined and unrefined coconut oil is the production process and the use of dried or fresh coconut meat. Refined coconut oil has a neutral taste and scent with a higher smoke point. Unrefined coconut oil has a strong coconut taste and scent with a lower smoke point.
Which is better naturally refined or unrefined coconut oil?
Due to its mild flavor and high smoke point, refined coconut oil is a better choice for baking and cooking. However, minimally processed unrefined coconut oil may be better for skin and hair care, as well as certain dietary preferences.
Is it better to use refined or unrefined coconut oil for skin?
Both refined and unrefined coconut oils have triglycerides (fatty acids) and would be excellent moisturizers. But because unrefined coconut oil has a higher content of phytonutrients (compounds produced by plants to help protect them from environmental threats, such as antioxidants), it’s the best choice for skincare.
Which is healthier refined or unrefined oil?
Unrefined oils are definitely healthier than refined oils. The extraction process used for unrefined oils leaves the product as close to its natural form as possible. Unrefined oils retain their nutrients, flavor, and aroma and have fewer added chemicals than refined oils.
What does naturally refined coconut oil mean?
What does “naturally refined” mean? It means the coconuts were dried out before being pressed (which typically means parts of the husk or shell weren’t fully removed) and processed at higher temperatures to remove the coconut flavor. This process doesn’t lose the health benefits of MCT content.
Why is refined coconut oil bad?
Refined coconut oil is more processed than unrefined. If it’s important to you to eat food products that are as close to their natural state as possible, refined coconut oil is probably not a good choice for you. Refined coconut oil has a smoke point of 350 degrees F.
Does coconut oil need to be refrigerated?
There’s no need to refrigerate coconut oil. It’ll last a long time—up to two years—in your pantry. Just keep the lid on tight. Depending on how warm it gets where you live, your oil might go from solid to liquid in the jar.
Which type of coconut oil is best for skin?
virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil
The best type of coconut oil for skin skin is organic, virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil, as it’s the least processed of the bunch so it retains the most nutrients. When using coconut oil for your face, avoid buying the more processed varieties produced primarily for food purposes.
How do I choose coconut oil?
Whenever possible, buy coconut oil that’s labeled as “unrefined,” “extra virgin,” and/or “cold pressed,” but avoid coconut oil that’s labeled as “deodorized.” Sticking to these guidelines ensures that you’ll get oil subjected to the least amount of processing.
What type of coconut oil is best for hair?
extra virgin coconut oil
Stick to unrefined virgin coconut oil (or even extra virgin coconut oil) for the best results. This just ensures your hair will be getting all the good-for-you nutrients present in the oil’s natural form.
Does coconut oil expire?
The general rule is that coconut oil will last for up to two years if properly stored. However, the shelf life depends on what type of coconut oil you have on hand. Virgin or extra-virgin coconut oil, also called unrefined coconut oil, is made from fresh coconut meat, or copra. It has a shelf life of up to five years.
Can I eat unrefined coconut oil?
Both refined and unrefined coconut oils have the same nutritional benefits. So, it truly all comes down to usage and taste preference. Love a coconut flavor and scent? Go with unrefined.
Why refined oil is not good for health?
Thus the oils oxidize and become rancid, as well as lose many or all of their properties. This renders them toxic. Regular consumption of refined oil may lead to cancer, Diabetes Mellitus (DM), gastrointestinal disease, atherosclerosis, obesity, reproductive issues, and immune dysfunction.
Why is unrefined coconut oil more expensive?
It has a more complex production process, and it’s produced from a more high quality coconut meat. So it stands to reason that the Organic Virgin Coconut Oil will be much more expensive.
Which coconut oil is best?
Here are a few of the best coconut oils to try.
- Nutiva Organic Liquid Coconut Oil.
- Viva Naturals Organic Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil.
- Kirkland Organic Virgin Coconut Oil.
- Nature’s Way Organic Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil.
- Tropical Life Organic Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil.
- Vita Coco Organic Virgin Coconut Oil.
When should I use refined coconut oil?
Refined coconut oil: This oil is much more versatile because of its neutral flavor. Use it in body care, vegan baked goods, for sauteing and stir fries, vegan pie crust, vegan scones, vegan cookies, and more.
Is unrefined virgin coconut oil good for you?
Fats: Unrefined coconut oil is a great source of beneficial fats that may help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol (the bad kind), increase levels of HDL cholesterol (the good kind), fight inflammation, reduce risk of cognitive decline, support immune function, boost metabolism, and help you burn fat in the abdominal area
What does naturally refined mean?
Naturally refined oils are more thoroughly filtered and strained than unrefined, usually with some additional heat but without harsh or damaging chemicals. Refining reduces the nutrient level and flavor.
Does coconut oil clog arteries?
Eating foods that contain coconut oil can increase your risk for heart problems. Fatty plaque buildup causes the artery walls to harden and narrow, making it difficult for blood to deliver the oxygen and nutrients your organs need.
Does coconut oil whiten teeth?
Remember, coconut oil on its own doesn’t whiten teeth. It can, however, make them appear temporarily brighter. With that in mind, if you’d still like to add coconut oil to your oral care routine, Patterson says that it’s fine to do so as long as you’re not allergic to the ingredient.
Can I just add coconut oil to my coffee?
If you want to try coconut oil in your cup of joe, start small by adding 1 tablespoon (14 grams) to hot coffee and stirring it thoroughly to ensure that the oil incorporates well. Some people prefer to blend the oil with coffee in a blender to make a delicious tropical-style beverage.
Lorraine Wade is all about natural food. She loves to cook and bake, and she’s always experimenting with new recipes. Her friends and family are the lucky beneficiaries of her culinary skills! Lorraine also enjoys hiking and exploring nature. She’s a friendly person who loves to chat with others, and she’s always looking for ways to help out in her community.