Life Change Habits

The average coconut isn’t much to look at. But hidden inside its unassuming exterior is a powerful force for good health:  coconut oil . Although it’s a saturated fat, current scientific research finds saturated fats are a vital nutrient that’s essential for life. Our cell membranes even need these types of fatty acids to function properly. And recent research suggests that the medium-chain triacylglycerols (MCTs) that make up coconut oil may have wide-ranging health benefits. Here are a few of them: MCTs Fight Fat with Fat The way our bodies process the MCTs in coconut oil reduces the opportunity for those fats to deposit into our existing fatty tissues. And it gets even better. Consuming MCTs from coconut oil has been shown to increase metabolism by turning up our bodies’ thermostats in a process called thermogenesis. When we produce more heat, our bodies utilize more energy.  Increases in thermogenesis and metabolism mean our bodies burn more fuel—fat. And co...

Avocados are a healthy and versatile food choice. They are a nutrient-dense food. One-fifth of a medium avocado (1 oz.) has 50 calories and contributes nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, making it a nutrient-dense food choice, according to the California Avocado Growers. Avocados contain potassium, reducing the effect of salt on blood pressure. One ounce of avocado, (1/5 of a medium avocado)  provides 140 grams of potassium, or 4% of the recommended daily value. Avocados also provide dietary fiber, with 2 gr. of fiber per 1/5 avocado. They are also a source of "good" fats, being one of the few fruits which contain both mono and polyunsaturated fats.  Both mono and polyunsaturated fats, when consumed in moderation, can help reduce blood cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of heart disease. Avocados add good fats to the diet, providing 3 g of mono and 0.5 g polyunsaturated fat per 1-oz. serving. An avocado makes a quick, nutritious snack  It's yummy just mashe...