Is Coconut Oil Good for Diabetes? Expert Shares

Coconut oil is one of the mot common things in Indian households, be it for cooking, cosmetic skin care, or remedy purposes. However, recently, it has entered conversations around metabolic health, including diabetes. According to World Health Organization (WHO), diabetes is on the rise in India, which is making people looking increasingly towards natural ingredients to control or stabilise their blood sugar levels. 

But does coconut oil really have any benefits for diabetes, or is it just another wellness trend? To understand this better, we spoke to Bharathi Kumar, Nutritionist, Fortis Hospital, Nagarbhavi, Bengaluru, and here is everything she shared with us.

Why Coconut Oil Became Popular in Diabetes Care

Coconut oil is made up of MCTs, a form of fat metabolised differently from conventional dietary fats. Long-chain fats get deposited in the body, whereas MCTs are broken down into energy without much delay. “This has led people to believe that coconut oil can enhance metabolism, improve insulin function, and support weight management, all key elements in diabetes care. However, scientific studies into coconut oil and blood glucose control remain limited, and evidence is mixed.

Also Read: Do Men with Diabetes Have Healthy Sperm? Doctors Explain the Link Between Blood Sugar and Fertility

What the Expert Says About Coconut Oil Controlling Blood Sugar

According to Ms Kumar, coconut oil does not lower the blood sugar level directly, but it may help in managing diabetes in certain ways if used in moderation. Here’s how:

1. May Help Improve Insulin Sensitivity

Studies indicate that MCTs could strengthen insulin utilisation within the body. “MCTs are rapidly metabolised and used for energy, putting less stress on the pancreas,” Bharathi explained. This may help improve insulin efficiency over time, but it’s not a substitute for medication or lifestyle changes.

2. Can Support Weight Loss Efforts

According to doctors, weight control is crucial for people with diabetes. Coconut oil may help one feel full longer by increasing satiety. According to Bharathi, when used in small amounts for cooking, it helps in controlling calories, hence aiding weight management.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Chronic inflammation remains a common root of diabetes issues among people. Virgin coconut oil, in particular, possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce oxidative stress, hence supporting metabolic health.

Drawback of Coconut Oil For Diabetics

Coconut oil does have some benefits, but for people with diabetes, using coconut oil comes with some considerations. These may include:

1. High in Saturated Fats

Coconut oil contains as much as 90% saturated fat, which raises LDL cholesterol. Since individuals with diabetes have a greater risk of heart disease, overusing coconut oil can be counterproductive for them.

"Diabetes and heart health go hand-in-hand. While small amounts may be fine, excessive use of coconut oil is not advisable," Bharathi emphasised.

2. Not a Replacement for Healthy Oils

You still need your heart-healthy fats like olive oil, rice bran oil, mustard oil, or groundnut oil. Coconut oil is to be used in rotation, not as the primary oil for all cooking.

3. May Increase Calorie Intake

Any oil, including coconut oil, or other forms, is dense in calorie contribution. Adding coconut oil to the diet without adjusting overall intake will lead to weight gain and worsening of blood sugar control.

Also Read: Expert Explains How You Can Prevent and Manage Diabetes, Even If It Runs in Your Family

How to Use Coconut Oil Safely if You Have Diabetes

If you want to incorporate coconut oil into your diet for diabetes management, here are some tips from Bharathi:

• Use one to two teaspoons a day, not more.
• Choose virgin coconut oil instead of refined versions.
• Rotate oils, don't use just coconut oil.
• Avoid adding coconut oil to beverages, like coffee or smoothies.
• Balance meals with high-fibre foods, lean protein, and a sufficient amount of vegetables.

Bottomline

According to experts, coconut oil is not a cure for diabetes. The benefits that it provides metabolically are slight, and again, only if moderate amounts are used within the framework of a balanced heart-healthy diet. If you or someone you know is diabetic, it is always best to consult with a nutritionist before making major dietary changes.