Without a doubt, coconut oil is a super-star ingredient that I use a lot in my recipes including my newest veggies based dessert recipe book.

Coconut oil offers so much. It helps to simulate the thyroid which in turn increases your metabolism and helps to burn stored fat. It improves digestive health and immunity with its natural antibiotic effect and is proving to assist with slowing the aging process as well as being a powerful agent assisting us in our battle to lose weight.

Check some of the health benefits of the amazing oil:

Weight-loss warrior: In the weight loss war coconut can be an invaluable warrior because it contains medium-chain fatty acids that help to take off excessive weight. It is easily digested, and helps with the proper functioning of the thyroid and endocrine systems.

Immune System Defender: It contains antimicrobial lipids, lauric acid, caprylic acid and capric acid that provide antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial functions all of which work to strengthen the immune system according to research by the Coconut Research Center coconut oil kills viruses that cause measles, influenza, hepatitis, herpes and many other serious health risks. It will also go to battle for you against certain bacteria that cause ulcers, urinary tract infections, pneumonia throat infections and gonorrhea.

Blood sugar: Coconut oil helps to control blood sugar levels and improves the secretion of insulin.

Bone Builder: This special oil improves the body’s ability to absorb important minerals that include calcium and magnesium. Both of these minerals are mandatory for the development of healthy bones.

Boosts Energy: Many athletes and body builders use coconut oil because it boosts energy and endurance and generally enhances performance.

Perfect oil for cooking: Coconut oil contains less calories than other oils and because its fat content is converted to energy easily it does not promote the accumulation of fat in the heart and arteries. Use it for cooking rather than your traditional vegetable oil to benefit from the essential fatty acids it offers as well as the healthy unsaturated fats.

These are just some of the health benefits that coconut oil offers. This superfood has healing properties beyond just your internal health. There are numerous ways to use coconut oil on your skin and in your hair that can help with anti-aging and other issues so don’t limit it to the kitchen alone.

If you have not yet discovered the wealth of benefits this amazing tropical oil provides it’s time you do.

Who doesn’t love brownies? Here’s a recipe using coconut oil and other healthy ingredients that will take that unhealthy…non-nutritious brownie and turn it into a delicious but healthy bite.

BROWNIES WITH AVOCADO FROSTING

Base:

1 ½ cups walnuts

1 cup dates, soaked at least 30 minutes and drained

1/3 cup cocoa or cacao powder

Directions:

Place walnuts in food processor and process until broken down and crumbly.

Add dates and cocoa and process until well combined. Spread into a small dish or pan.

Frosting:

1 ripe avocado

¼ cup honey

½ cup coconut oil, warmed until liquid

¼ cup cocoa or cacao powder

2 teaspoons vanilla essence

Place all ingredients into the food processor and blend until smooth. Spread over the brownie layer. Place in fridge to firm up then cut into bars.

Enjoy!

“50 Desserts with Hidden Veggies” will help you to discover no bake, Paleo friendly, no sugar, gluten free healthy sweet treat and dessert recipes…

Isn’t it time you began introducing these much ignored nutrient-dense super-stars into all your dishes…including your desserts?