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Coconut oil. It’s a very controversial subject in the world of Alzheimer’s.

Some online support groups actually ban posts about coconut oil suggesting any discussion on the topic gives people false hope.

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s.

No survivors.

No cure.

Simply put, if coconut oil cured Alzheimer’s, well… I wouldn’t be writing this. In fact, this blog wouldn’t exist at all. What a wonderful thing that would be, but for now, as the saying goes, “if ands or buts were candy and nuts, then every day would be Christmas!”

Coconut Oil and Brain Health

Last spring, I wrote an article for Alzheimers.net exploring coconut oil’s potential impact on brain health. If I had known about it ten years ago, would I have tried adding coconut oil to my mom’s diet? You bet your bottom dollar. I would have tried anything in an attempt to stave off the symptoms for as long as possible. Am I convinced that adding it to my diet will prevent me from getting this insidious disease? Not at all. Do I think it’s the magic antidote we’ve all been looking for? No.

Image courtesy of Toa55 / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

However, my *personal opinion is – no harm, no foul. I’ve replaced my old cooking spray with a coconut oil spray. I stir a teaspoonful of the solid form into my coffee or oatmeal, and I cook with it when it makes sense to do so. I also use coconut milk – simply because I like the taste! I believe there are overall health benefits associated with coconut, but my advice is simple. Do your research, discuss with your doctor, and make the choice that’s best for you.

Ultimate Guide to Coconut Products

Should you decide to explore adding coconut products of any sort to your diet, Lisa Richards provides an excellent Ultimate Guide to Coconut Products. On this page, she discusses everything from coconut oil to coconut flour to coconut….vinegar??! Yes, that’s right – coconut vinegar! Lisa’s guide is chock full of information; everything you wanted to know about coconut and more!!

*Disclosure: I am not a doctor, nor have I ever portrayed one on TV. The statements herein are my opinions and do not constitute medical advice.