Coconut oil
Coconut oil used to get a bad rap because its calories come predominantly from saturated fats. Now it’s receiving some well-deserved vindication, says Elliot. The main type of saturated fat in coconut oil is lauric acid, “which is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties,” says Elliot.
“Coconut oil is also unique from other sources of saturated fats because it contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) which are metabolized differently—they go straight from the liver to the digestive tract and can then be used as a quick source of energy rather than getting stored. It’s also a very stable fat and is great for cooking with high temperatures.”
