12 surprising side effects of coconut oil

Read on to know about 12 unexpected ways in which consuming coconut oil may be harmful to our health.

There is good and bad associated with almost everything in the world. While there are many health benefits of consuming coconut oil, there are also a few side effects associated with it. Read on to know about the dangers of consuming the coconut oil.

May increase cholesterol level. According to a study by Harvard medical school, coconut oil may not be as beneficial in regards to cholesterol as its intake is associated with an increase in both total cholesterol and LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol levels.

May cause allergy. Coconut oil may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people such as rashes, hives, eczema, nausea, anaphylaxis, and vomiting.

May harm the heart. According to a study conducted by the American heart association, the high saturated fat content of coconut oil may harm the heart health as it leads to an increase in bad cholesterol levels.

Diarrhea. When coconut oil is taken orally in large quantities, it may lead to short term side effects such as diarrhea.

Acne. People with oily skin may experience acne breakout after consuming large quantities of coconut oil.

Intestinal distress. Food products made using coconut oil usually contain fructose and individual with fructose malabsorption may suffer from intestinal distress. Desiccated coconut contains sulfites, which may also trigger digestive problems.

Allergic reaction in children. Children with hypothyroidism should refrain from consuming coconut oil and coconut oil based products.

Headache. People who are detoxifying their body for yeast infections using coconut oil often experience headache because the medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) present in coconut oil breaks down the yeast cells and release a stream of fungal toxins in to the blood stream.

Oil pulling. People who are allergic to coconut oil should avoid using this oil for oil pulling.

If used as a lubricant. Coconut oil may seem like a safe option to be used as a lubricant but it can alter the pH level of the vagina and cause a yeast infection. Coconut oil may also degrade the effectiveness of latex in condoms.

Candida. Coconut oil may trigger infection while treating the candida because of the toxins released by the candida.

Liver damage. MCTs present in coconut oil is stored as energy in the liver, which may put a stress on the liver and even harm this vital organ if the same process continues over a long period of time.