Varieties of Coconut Oil
There are primarily 6 varieties of coconut oil that you will find on the market. These are pure coconut oil, refined coconut oil, organic coconut oil, virgin coconut oil, organic virgin coconut oil and extra virgin coconut oil.
Pure Coconut Oil: This oil is our most well-known old friend. It is extracted from dried coconut kernels, which are also called copra. It is crude, unrefined and without any additives. It is mainly extracted by compression of copra in a mill, either driven by bullocks or by power. However, the variety extracted by bullock driven oil mills is preferred. Pure coconut oil has multiple uses such as edible oil, massaging oil, hair oil, cosmetic usage, as well as medicinal and industrial use. Refined Coconut Oil: This is sometimes also called the RBD coconut oil, which is an abbreviated form for refined, bleached & deodorized coconut oil. As the name suggests, this type is obtained by mechanically and chemically refining, bleaching and deodorizing the crude coconut oil, to make it thin, colorless, odorless and without any type of particle (such as proteins) suspended in it. What we then get is only pure saturated fats. Virgin Coconut Oil: Virgin coconut oil is derived from the milk obtained from fresh coconut meat, and not from copra, by processes like fermentation, centrifugal separation and enzyme action. Care is taken to use no or as little heat as possible in the extraction of this oil. Produced in this way, the oil tastes and smells the best and is laden with antioxidants and medium chain fatty acids. It also has remarkable anti-microbial properties. This is one of the most respected and trusted varieties of coconut oil. Organic Coconut Oil: The coconut oil that has been extracted from coconuts obtained from coconut palms raised only on organic manure and no synthetic fertilizers or insecticides. The production of organic coconut oil is also completed without involving any chemical in its extraction or processing. This is another well-respected variety of coconut oil. Organic coconut oil forms an integral part of a number of organic cosmetic products such as organic soaps, organic skin creams and lotions, organic snacks and thousands of other similar products. Some of the organic programs and authorities that certify organic coconut oil include Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS), USDA National Organic Program (NOP), European Organic Regulations (EU 2092/91), Export Certificates for Japan (JAS Equivalent), Indian National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP), Quebec Organic Reference Standard (CAAQ), Bio Suisse Standards, IOFAM Basic Standards, ECOCERT. Organic Virgin Coconut Oil: This type of oil is basically virgin coconut oil produced from the organic coconuts, in an organic way. This is perhaps the best and purest form of coconut oil one can imagine, but it is rare. Extra Virgin Coconut Oil: Among all the varieties of coconut oil, this is the most challenged and controversial variety, as its very existence is doubtful and the name hardly makes any sense. Furthermore, there are no set standards for virginity of coconut oil. Moreover, reputed firms and governmental bodies are still hesitant to say anything on the matter, nor are they selling it. Basically, further research is definitely required. The properties of coconut oil do not differ much with their varieties and remain more or less the same. So, think well and make a wise decision before you decide to purchase one of the varieties. Weight Loss using Coconut OilWeight Loss: Coconut oil and weight loss-what’s really going on? Well, if you sit around eating coconut oil, you aren't going to lose weight. However, if used to substitute other fats, it can help you drop the pounds by taking the place of those other calories. Unlike most saturated fats, it’s mainly comprised of medium chain fatty acids, versus long chain fatty acids. This difference in molecular structure means that it doesn't get packed away as fat as easily and instead is sent straight to the liver to be metabolized, giving you a boost in energy. This energy in turn makes exercising easier, and the exercise in turn helps you lose weight. Another major factor that it plays is as an appetite suppressant. Craving something you shouldn’t be? Have a tablespoon or 2 of coconut oil, and that sensation won’t last long!
Coconut Oil (as a replacement fat)
In the 1970’s and ‘80’s, saturated fats got shoved into the spotlight as the main cause for obesity. Coconut oil, being a saturated fat, was tossed along with the rest of them. The healthier alternative that we created? Trans-fat. One could say that backfired a wee bit eh? Coconut oil isn’t just any old saturated fat though; it contains unique fats called medium chain triglycerides that help you use energy (aka calories) more efficiently. MCT’s are indeed a saturated fat, but they are not the same as many of the other saturated fats we hear about-those fats are long chain triglycerides. Why does the length matter? Its chemical makeup is what determines how our body processes it and breaks it down. MCT’s are not broken down in the intestines, and therefore do not get stored away immediately as fat. Instead, they absorbed intact and sent right to the liver, where they are used as energy. Now sitting around eating coconut oil isn’t going to make you lose weight, but using it as a replacement fat can be a good choice. In addition to that, just plain coconut oil is an incredible appetite suppressant (it’s almost scary, actually.) Tack on that it can raise energy levels and you are more likely to get out, move around, and exercise. As far as studies on it go, here are some that I mentioned in The Everyday Roots Book. In 2002 the Journal of Nutrition concluded that it can aid weight loss when used in place of long chain triglycerides. It was also shown to strongly curb appetite and it appeared to increase the burning of calories. In 2003 Obesity Research found that it may help burn calories, probably due to the fact that it boosted energy. In 2010 the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition also found that it could help boost metabolism and reduce appetite. You will need… -2 tablespoons of good virgin cold-pressed coconut oil Directions Twice a day, take 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. You can take it before, during, or after a meal. If you tend to struggle with proportions, I suggest taking it before you eat, or if dessert is your demon, take it right after dinner. In terms of substitution I’ve used it in place of olive oil and love it. |
Coconut oil extractionCold pressing is one of the preferred methods for the extraction of coconut oil. The quality of coconut oil depends a lot on the method of its extraction. Basically, there are two main methods of extraction of coconut oil. The first is cold pressing of copra (dried coconut kernels) and the second is boiling of fresh coconut milk. Since boiling or heating destroys many nutrients and valuable components, coconut oil obtained this way is not considered as good as that obtained by cold pressing, since cold pressing retains much of oil’s goodness. Machine pressing and bullock/manual pressing are two methods of cold pressing.
Machine pressing: In this cold pressing is done with the help of an electrically or diesel-engine driven oil mill. Most of cold pressed oil used in the world is obtained this way. Bullock/manual pressing: The oil obtained this way has a better taste and fragrance and is more expensive since the production is smaller, it consumes more time and energy, and wastage is higher. In short, it has a higher price, lower availability and better quality. When to use what Coconut oilPurpose————–Preferable Type to Buy
Cooking————–Refined Coconut Oil Weight Loss———Virgin Coconut Oil As a Carrier Oil—–Virgin Coconut Oil, Fractionated Coconut Oil Good Health———Virgin Coconut Oil, Organic Coconut Oil Massaging———–Pure Coconut Oil, Refined Coconut Oil Hair——————–Pure Coconut Oil, Refined Coconut Oil Medicinal uses—–Virgin Coconut Oil, Virgin Organic Coconut Oil Furthermore, before you buy coconut oil, you should keep in mind that for edible and therapeutic uses, refined coconut oil is the best as it is hygienic and clean. Unrefined coconut oil is good for external applications like hair care and skin care. Fatty Acids:Medium-Chain Fatty Acids: These saturated fats are the best things that coconut oil has to offer. I know, many of you will raise your eyebrows at the very notion of saturated fats, but believe me, not all saturated fats are bad. These saturated fats are actually medium-chain fatty acids like capric acid, caprylic acid, caproic acid, and lauric acid, which can do wonders for you. They increase the rate of metabolism in your body, thereby aiding in weight loss, increase the level of good cholesterol (high density lipoproteins) and lower the level of bad cholesterol (low density lipoproteins). They are also great sources of energy.
How does it work?
Coconut oil is high in a saturated fat called medium chain triglycerides. These fats work differently than other types of saturated fat in the body. However, research on the effects of these types of fats in the body is very preliminary. When applied to the skin, coconut oil has a moisturizing effect. Head lice. Developing research shows that a spray containing coconut oil, anise oil, and ylang ylang oil appears to be effective for treating head lice in children. It seems to work about as well as a spray containing chemical insecticides. Psoriasis. Applying coconut oil to the skin before treatment of psoriasis with ultraviolet B (UVB) or psoralen and ultraviolet A (PUVA) light therapy doesn't seem to improve effectiveness of the treatment. Heart disease. A study in India suggested that eating coconut or taking coconut oil doesn’t seem to affect the chances of having a heart attack or developing chest pain (angina). Obesity. Some developing research shows that taking coconut oil 10 mL three times daily might reduce waist size after 1-6 weeks of use. New-born weight gain. Some research shows that massaging premature new-borns with coconut oil can improve weight gain and growth. High cholesterol. Some research suggests that dietary use of coconut oil is linked to increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good”) cholesterol, but does not increase levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”) cholesterol. However, a study comparing a diet rich in coconut oil to diets rich in beef fat or safflower oil found that coconut oil can increase both HDL and LDL cholesterol. Diarrhoea. A study in children found that incorporating coconut oil into the diet can reduce the length of diarrhoea, but another study found that it was no more effective than a cow milk-based diet. The effect of coconut oil alone is not clear. Dry skin. Developing research shows that applying coconut oil to the skin twice daily can improve skin moisture in people with dry skin. · Alzheimer’s disease. · Diabetes. · Chronic fatigue. · Crohn's disease. · Irritable bowel syndrome. · Thyroid conditions. · Other conditions. Coconut oil is safe for most people if used in amounts commonly found in foods. It also appears to be safe when applied to the scalp in combination with other herbs. Since coconut oil has a high fat content, there is concern that it might increase weight if used in large amounts or that it might increase cholesterol levels. However, these concerns have not been proven in scientific research. Special Precautions & Warnings: Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Coconut oil is safe for pregnant and breast-feeding women when used in the amounts normally found in the diet. But the safety of using coconut oil in larger amounts is not known. It’s best to stick to food amounts if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. High cholesterol: There is concern that coconut oil might increase total cholesterol and “bad” LDL cholesterol. But there is contradictory evidence that shows that coconut oil might actually increase levels of “good” cholesterol and have little to no effect on total or “bad” cholesterol levels. |
Animals and coconut Oil
Itchy Dogs: My pup has atopic dermatitis, also known as the world’s worst allergies. He gets goopy eyes, scabby ears from scratching them too much, and will literally scratch himself raw and bloody without treatment. In addition to his daily care regime, he gets coconut oil. From the inside out, coconut oil can help nourish the dry, irritated, or inflamed skin that is the result of the inappropriate response to various allergens. It did not cure him of his allergies, though there are people who say it has gotten rid of their dog’s allergies completely, but it does help reduce the itching. If your pup chews their paws and stains them red/pink/brown it can help in that department as well, as that is also a sign of allergies. Start with ½ teaspoon a day and work your way up to 1 tablespoon for 40+ pound dogs, and 1-2 teaspoons for dogs that weigh less. They usually go crazy for it!
Coconut oil is well known for being rich in health benefits for people, but this product is also highly beneficial for dogs and cats as well, and for pretty much all of the same reasons it’s great for humans. Incorporating coconut oil into cats’ and dogs’ lives both topically and internally will undoubtedly lead to dramatic improvements in their overall health.
Coconut oil is commonly used topically for skin and hair conditioning and moisturizing, as well as a balm for cuts, burns and other wounds. Coconut oil works just as well for animals for these topical treatments. In addition, coconut oil is a natural repellent to fleas and ticks just by smoothing some over the animal’s coat like you would a leave-in conditioner. Adding coconut oil to your animal’s diet will also give them many, if not all of the same health benefits it does for people, including, but not restricted to: bone health, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, and digestion.
Getting started is easy.
For Horses
Approximate DOSAGE:
SPORT HORSES: 50ml to 100mls per day
PONY/SHOWING: 30mls to 50mls per day
AGED/GERIATRIC: 15mls to 30mls per day
15mls is one Tablespoon and conversion to grams is 1:1 ratio.
Introduce to the diet gradually over a week then commence full dose.
Mix with feed or serve as is.
Dosage is based on an average horse weight of 500kg; decrease or increase accordingly
For dogs:
Large-medium sized breeds: 1 measuring teaspoon to start, gradually increasing to 1-2 full, generous tablespoon size (measuring or eating type) over the course of 1-2 weeks. Add to food once a day and serve.
Small-toy dog breeds and puppies: 1/2 – 1 measuring teaspoon to start, increasing to 1 full tablespoon over the course of 1-2 weeks. Add to food once a day and serve.
For cats:
Adults: 1/2 measuring teaspoon to start, increasing to 1-3 teaspoons over the course of 1-2 weeks. Add to food once a day and serve.
Kittens: 1/4 measuring teaspoon to start, increasing to 1 teaspoon over the course of 1 week. Add to food once a day and serve.
Discernment and common sense must be used in determining what is best for your pets. An overweight dog or cat will need more, while a healthy and fit one won’t. Kittens and puppies grow quickly and may not need as long of a transition period. Coconut oil will help digestive health, but it also may loosen stools. If that happens, simply cut back and go slower on moving their intake up and/or add pumpkin purée.
Coconut oil is commonly used topically for skin and hair conditioning and moisturizing, as well as a balm for cuts, burns and other wounds. Coconut oil works just as well for animals for these topical treatments. In addition, coconut oil is a natural repellent to fleas and ticks just by smoothing some over the animal’s coat like you would a leave-in conditioner. Adding coconut oil to your animal’s diet will also give them many, if not all of the same health benefits it does for people, including, but not restricted to: bone health, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, and digestion.
Getting started is easy.
For Horses
Approximate DOSAGE:
SPORT HORSES: 50ml to 100mls per day
PONY/SHOWING: 30mls to 50mls per day
AGED/GERIATRIC: 15mls to 30mls per day
15mls is one Tablespoon and conversion to grams is 1:1 ratio.
Introduce to the diet gradually over a week then commence full dose.
Mix with feed or serve as is.
Dosage is based on an average horse weight of 500kg; decrease or increase accordingly
For dogs:
Large-medium sized breeds: 1 measuring teaspoon to start, gradually increasing to 1-2 full, generous tablespoon size (measuring or eating type) over the course of 1-2 weeks. Add to food once a day and serve.
Small-toy dog breeds and puppies: 1/2 – 1 measuring teaspoon to start, increasing to 1 full tablespoon over the course of 1-2 weeks. Add to food once a day and serve.
For cats:
Adults: 1/2 measuring teaspoon to start, increasing to 1-3 teaspoons over the course of 1-2 weeks. Add to food once a day and serve.
Kittens: 1/4 measuring teaspoon to start, increasing to 1 teaspoon over the course of 1 week. Add to food once a day and serve.
Discernment and common sense must be used in determining what is best for your pets. An overweight dog or cat will need more, while a healthy and fit one won’t. Kittens and puppies grow quickly and may not need as long of a transition period. Coconut oil will help digestive health, but it also may loosen stools. If that happens, simply cut back and go slower on moving their intake up and/or add pumpkin purée.
COCONUT OIL and horses
Oils and Fat in Horse Feed
Although horse diets have always contained small amounts of oil, a plethora of research and anecdotal evidence suggests that they are adept at utilising higher percentages of oil in their diets. Horses adapted to higher-oil diets can digest and transport this extra dietary oil, as evidenced by increased bile production and elevated levels of lipoproteins in blood serum (lipoproteins are the proteins in blood that carry oil molecules). Unlike other animals, in the horse, bile is secrete fairly continuously from the liver and passes via a bile duct directly into the duodenum (bile is a salt solution which helps in the digestion and absorption of oils). Horses can then metabolise oils as an energy source through a process called ‘fatty acid oxidation'. Hence, horses can efficiently digest, metabolise and utilise quite high levels of oils. |
Energy density of oil
Oil is very energy dense, and yield about 2¼ times more energy than starch or protein. This may be useful for a number of reasons including reduction in gut fill and reduction in feed intake required to sustain maintenance and exercise.
Benefits for horses in hot climates
The total amount of heat waste produced per unit of energy is different for different feeds, with oils producing significantly less heat waste than fermentable carbohydrates, roughages and proteins. Oil-supplemented horses in hot conditions have been reported to have lower mean body temperatures than those consuming high roughage and high grain diets. Further, oil metabolism yields almost twice the water of protein and carbohydrate metabolism. This may benefit horses that sweat profusely. The combined effects of oil feeding are to reduce thermal load and increase water production in horses working in hot environments.
Oil as a ‘non-hot' feed
When starch (typically in the form of grain), is fed to horses in large quantities, there is a risk of starch overload into the hindgut. This can culminate in "hot" behaviour, which can result in stressful and dangerous situations for both horse and rider. The risk of starch overload can be minimised by replacing some grain in the feed with oil, to provide energy. Oil provides a source of ‘cool' energy, which is not associated with hot behaviour.
Glycogen
Once adapted to higher levels of dietary oil, horses can utilise oil for energy during submaximal/aerobic exercise. This is achieved via fatty acid oxidation and has the effect of sparing muscle glycogen stores. Subsequently, horses appear able to utilise the greater muscle glycogen stores during high intensity/anaerobic activity. This phenomenon has implications such as delaying time to onset of fatigue and increasing capacity for high intensity exercise.
The benefits of supplemental oil for horses extend beyond its use merely as a grain alternative. Oil-supplementation can help prevent fizzy behaviour and various types of tying-up, and reduce the thermal load on horses in hot climates. Oil feeding can even provide energy for submaximal work and may increase capacity for high intensity exercise.
Majority of oils end up in the liver via lymphatics whereas in comparison coconut oil is absorbed directly into the portal blood and transported directly to the liver where it is readily available.
Oil is very energy dense, and yield about 2¼ times more energy than starch or protein. This may be useful for a number of reasons including reduction in gut fill and reduction in feed intake required to sustain maintenance and exercise.
Benefits for horses in hot climates
The total amount of heat waste produced per unit of energy is different for different feeds, with oils producing significantly less heat waste than fermentable carbohydrates, roughages and proteins. Oil-supplemented horses in hot conditions have been reported to have lower mean body temperatures than those consuming high roughage and high grain diets. Further, oil metabolism yields almost twice the water of protein and carbohydrate metabolism. This may benefit horses that sweat profusely. The combined effects of oil feeding are to reduce thermal load and increase water production in horses working in hot environments.
Oil as a ‘non-hot' feed
When starch (typically in the form of grain), is fed to horses in large quantities, there is a risk of starch overload into the hindgut. This can culminate in "hot" behaviour, which can result in stressful and dangerous situations for both horse and rider. The risk of starch overload can be minimised by replacing some grain in the feed with oil, to provide energy. Oil provides a source of ‘cool' energy, which is not associated with hot behaviour.
Glycogen
Once adapted to higher levels of dietary oil, horses can utilise oil for energy during submaximal/aerobic exercise. This is achieved via fatty acid oxidation and has the effect of sparing muscle glycogen stores. Subsequently, horses appear able to utilise the greater muscle glycogen stores during high intensity/anaerobic activity. This phenomenon has implications such as delaying time to onset of fatigue and increasing capacity for high intensity exercise.
The benefits of supplemental oil for horses extend beyond its use merely as a grain alternative. Oil-supplementation can help prevent fizzy behaviour and various types of tying-up, and reduce the thermal load on horses in hot climates. Oil feeding can even provide energy for submaximal work and may increase capacity for high intensity exercise.
Majority of oils end up in the liver via lymphatics whereas in comparison coconut oil is absorbed directly into the portal blood and transported directly to the liver where it is readily available.
Coconut Oil - Is It Good For Horses? (Link)
1. Improving Gut Health - Coconut oil contains medium chain triglycerides (MCT) that are easier to digest, absorb and convert to energy than the traditionally used vegetable oils. It's been reported to assist with ulcers, acidosis, colic and dysbiosis and is particularly helpful for horses on a grain-based feed.
2. Wound Care - Apply it liberally on cuts to help fight infection and minimize proud flesh.
3. Entice Picky Eaters - Most horses seem to love the taste so it's a great way to hide less palatable supplements and medications.
4. Coat, Mane & Tail Conditioner - Unlike petroleum based or silicone based products, it's easily absorbed into hair and skin.
5. Insect Bites & Stings - Helps sooth and protect against infection.
6. Mud Fever - The anti-microbial effects are perfect for treating mud fever and helping to prevent reinfection.
7. "Cool" Energy source - Coconut Oil is energy dense and yields about 2 times more energy than starch or protein. It gives your horse a readily digestible energy, without the "hotness" that generally comes with high grain diets (great for you OTTB riders!).
8. Hoof Conditioner - This stuff will do wonders for dry cracked hooves.
9. Easy to Store Supplement - Since it's naturally resistant to rancidity, it can be safely stored at room temperature for several years versus vegetable oils which may only last a few months (I've been guilty of keeping a jug of corn oil in the feed room for WAY too long).
10. Reducing Hay - If the price of hay in your area is sky high then coconut oil can help you add extra calories without increasing your hay bill. It's also great for seniors or hard keepers that don't gain weight not matter how much hay or grass you provide.
When adding coconut oil to your feeding program it's important to introduce it gradually and adjust according to your horse's needs. I've seen recommended dosage ranging from 1/8 to 1/2 cup per day for healthy, working horses (just to give you a rough idea).
Indication for feeding Horses
Approximate DOSAGE:
SPORT HORSES: 50ml to 100mls per day
PONY/SHOWING: 30mls to 50mls per day
AGED/GERIATRIC: 15mls to 30mls per day
15mls is one Tablespoon and conversion to grams is 1:1 ratio.
Introduce to the diet gradually over a week then commence full dose.
Mix with feed or serve as is.
Dosage is based on an average horse weight of 500kg; decrease or increase accordingly
Horses & coconut oil
Studies have shown that among many benefits, saturated fatty acids give the following effects in horses:
· Increased muscle glycogen content,
· Increased sparing of muscle glycogen during light work
· Increased utilization of muscle glycogen during heavy work.
· Encourages strong bones and joints for mobility and stability. Improved hoof growth and integrity as well as aiding formation of the hoof wall.
· Coconut oil promotes soft and healthy skin, coat, mane and tail. Bringing their natural colours to life
· Coconut oil improves digestive functions and nutrient absorption, while maintaining insulin sensitivity and gut function.
Unsaturated oils such as rice bran, corn, soybean, flax do not give these effects.
Saturated oils are derived from animal fats, or coconut oil. Animal fats are unacceptable in horse feeds.
Coconut oil is a beautiful, palatable source of saturated fatty acids that horses love.
Some of the key benefits of coconut oil:
1. Improving Gut Health - Coconut oil contains medium chain triglycerides (MCT) that are easier to digest, absorb and convert to energy than the traditionally used vegetable oils. It's been reported to assist with ulcers, acidosis, colic and dysbiosis and is particularly helpful for horses on a grain-based feed.
2. Wound Care - Apply it liberally on cuts to help fight infection and minimize proud flesh.
3. Entice Picky Eaters - Most horses seem to love the taste so it's a great way to hide less palatable supplements and medications.
4. Coat, Mane & Tail Conditioner - Unlike petroleum based or silicone based products, it's easily absorbed into hair and skin.
5. Insect Bites & Stings - Helps sooth and protect against infection.
6. Mud Fever - The anti-microbial effects are perfect for treating mud fever and helping to prevent reinfection.
7. "Cool" Energy source - Coconut Oil is energy dense and yields about 2 times more energy than starch or protein. It gives your horse a readily digestible energy, without the "hotness" that generally comes with high grain diets (great for you OTTB riders!).
8. Hoof Conditioner - This stuff will do wonders for dry cracked hooves.
9. Easy to Store Supplement - Since it's naturally resistant to rancidity, it can be safely stored at room temperature for several years versus vegetable oils which may only last a few months (I've been guilty of keeping a jug of corn oil in the feed room for WAY too long).
10. Reducing Hay - If the price of hay in your area is sky high then coconut oil can help you add extra calories without increasing your hay bill. It's also great for seniors or hard keepers that don't gain weight not matter how much hay or grass you provide.
When adding coconut oil to your feeding program it's important to introduce it gradually and adjust according to your horse's needs. I've seen recommended dosage ranging from 1/8 to 1/2 cup per day for healthy, working horses (just to give you a rough idea).
Indication for feeding Horses
Approximate DOSAGE:
SPORT HORSES: 50ml to 100mls per day
PONY/SHOWING: 30mls to 50mls per day
AGED/GERIATRIC: 15mls to 30mls per day
15mls is one Tablespoon and conversion to grams is 1:1 ratio.
Introduce to the diet gradually over a week then commence full dose.
Mix with feed or serve as is.
Dosage is based on an average horse weight of 500kg; decrease or increase accordingly
Horses & coconut oil
Studies have shown that among many benefits, saturated fatty acids give the following effects in horses:
· Increased muscle glycogen content,
· Increased sparing of muscle glycogen during light work
· Increased utilization of muscle glycogen during heavy work.
· Encourages strong bones and joints for mobility and stability. Improved hoof growth and integrity as well as aiding formation of the hoof wall.
· Coconut oil promotes soft and healthy skin, coat, mane and tail. Bringing their natural colours to life
· Coconut oil improves digestive functions and nutrient absorption, while maintaining insulin sensitivity and gut function.
Unsaturated oils such as rice bran, corn, soybean, flax do not give these effects.
Saturated oils are derived from animal fats, or coconut oil. Animal fats are unacceptable in horse feeds.
Coconut oil is a beautiful, palatable source of saturated fatty acids that horses love.
Some of the key benefits of coconut oil:
- It is stable and resistant to rancidity. Because of its saturated structure, Coconut oil can be stored for long periods of time without risk of rancidity. Rancid oils reduce the palatability of a feed, interfere with the utilization of fat soluble vitamins and may cause damage to muscle and organ tissue if consumed.
- Coconut oil contains medium chain triglycerides (MCT) that are easier to digest, absorb and utilize in comparison to the long-chain fatty acids found in other oils such as maize, soy, canola and rice-bran oil. MCT absorbed directly into the portal blood and transported to the liver. By comparison, long chain fattyc acids are absorbed into the lymphatics and slowly transported to the liver. Further, MCT appear to behave more like glucose than other oils, meaning coconut oil provides a ready source of energy for use during exercise.
- Some of the MCT (lauric, capric and caproic acids) in coconut oil possess antibacterial and antiviral properties. These fatty acids may assist the horse's immune system in fighting off viral and bacterial challenges, leading to improved overall gut health and wellbeing. MCT have been shown to control Salmonella in chickens, and it is suggested that MCT may be of benefit in horses with Dysbiosis.
- Coconut oil may have performance benefits. A study by Pagan et al (1993) found that horses supplemented with coconut oil versus soybean oil had lower blood lactate and ammonia and higher free fatty acids than a control group of horses who were not supplemented with fat during the gallop and the warm down phase of a standardized exercise test. These effects may have a positive influence on performance. In addition, a study by Matsumoto (1995) found that mice supplemented with medium chain fatty acids took longer to reach a state of exhaustion whilst swimming than un-supplemented mice.