Five benefits of coconut oil: A must-have ingredient for any parent

26 April 2018

Coconut oil is a sweet and fragrant oil obtained from fresh coconuts. It is high in fatty acids and antioxidants and is considered to be one of the most nutritious types of oils that are very beneficial to the human body when consumed in moderation. It can be suggested that the best way to introduce your baby to coconut oil is to consume it while breastfeeding, so he or she can obtain its benefits and nutrients from the very beginning.

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Here are 5 of the main benefits of coconut oil for children:

Coconut oil is wonderful for babies and small children to have, both internally and externally, as it helps to fight infections and viruses by strengthening the immune system and detoxifying the body with its anti-bacterial properties. Add a small amount of the oil to their food and/or rub it on their skin to help treat infections, such as eczema, burns, bruises and rashes. Applying coconut oil to the skin can also speed up the healing process.

Cook food with coconut oil to help your child grow strong. The fats in coconut oil are important for a child’s growth and brain development. They also help the liver to efficiently absorb all of the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients from other foods they eat. The fats in coconut oil also improve thyroid function and help to reduce sugar cravings and make children feel fuller for longer, which is an important factor for parents who are trying to manage/monitor their children’s weight.

Coconut oil is an excellent nutritious massage oil for children. Apply it to their skin every night before they go to bed for hydrated, soft, healthy and supple skin.

Coconut oil is a wonderful hair conditioner and can help to strengthen the hair and encourage it to grow thicker and faster. A small application of coconut oil to the hair after a bath can also provide a child relief from a dry scalp, dry hair and dandruff problems.

Coconut oil is a great natural substitute for nappy rash creams. Apply it to the affected area after each nappy change to provide relief to your child. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties the oil has will work together to eliminate the irritation.