Coconut Oil

In the never ending quest for healthy food and a healthier diet I have been convinced by my son and his wife to try Coconut oil in place of vegetable, or canola oil, and even butter. I did my research and have found that Coconut oil can positively affect our hormones for thyroid and blood-sugar control. People who eat coconut oil also tend to have improvements in how they handle blood sugar since coconut can help improve insulin use within the body. Coconut oil can boost thyroid function helping to increase metabolism, energy and endurance. It increases digestion and helps to absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
Coconut oil lowers cholesterol by promoting its conversion to pregnenolone, a molecule that is a precursor to many of the hormones our bodies need. Coconut oil can help restore normal thyroid function. When the thyroid does not function optimally, it can contribute to higher levels of bad cholesterol. Use Coconut oil to fry with, to bake with and to add to everyday dishes like Oatmeal, tea, or coffee. Use on vegetables in place of spreads or butter, Coconut oil is a great moisturizer for hair and skin, use organic if using on skin or for massage. Studies have shown that you can consume to 2 tablespoons daily for healthy benefits.

Chocolate Coconut Clusters

Ingredients:

• 1 (5 oz) bag Flaked or shredded coconut- unsweetened
  
• 2/3 cup melted coconut oil + 1 TBSP
  
• 1/2 cup almond butter
  
• 1 tsp vanilla
  
• 1 cup dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips
  

Directions:

1. In medium bowl, mix coconut flakes, 2/3 cup melted coconut oil, vanilla, and almond butter until well mixed.
   
2. Using hands, form into 1 inch balls and put on a plate.
   
3. Put the plate in the freezer until the clusters harden completely.
   
4. Once the clusters have hardened, melt the chocolate in a double boiler with 1 TBSP coconut oil until smooth.
   
5. Dip the clusters into the chocolate and put back on a plate or in a small baking dish
   
6. Put them into refrigerator and eat once they get cold.
   
7. Enjoy the awesome mixture of crunchy chocolate shell and chewy coconut center!