Coconut Oil?

I have seen several members mention Coconut Oil recently and just wondered
what it is used for, and why its considered good for dogs. I haven't heard of it,
anyone willing to give me information please? Thanks

I've not used it Lizzie but I think people use it to soothe sore skin, though I could be completely wrong too

Its good for skin conditions and soreness, also I do put it in Vins food (I use the edible coconut oil) a couple of times a week Here is some info


The technical stuff.....

   The coconut possesses a wide variety of health benefits due to its fiber and nutritional content, but it is the oil that makes it a remarkable source of food and medicine. It has definitely earned its reputation as the healthiest oil in the world despite the fact that its high saturated fat content was once falsely claimed to be unhealthy.

   What makes coconut oil different?

   Oils and fats are composed of molecules known as fatty acids. They are classified either according to saturation or based on molecular length and size of the carbon chain within each fatty acid. Monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats are an example of the first class.

   The second classification is based on molecular size or length of the fatty acid's carbon chain. Long chains of carbon atoms consist of each fatty acid with an attached hydrogen atom. There are short chain fatty acids known as SCFA, medium chain fatty acids (MCFA) such as coconut oil and long chain fatty acids (LCFA). Whether unsaturated or saturated, the majority of fats and oils in our diet are composed of long chain fatty acids. In fact, a majority of the fatty acids commonly consumed are LCFA.

   Coconut oil is predominantly medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA) and the effects of the MCFA in coconut oil are distinctly different from the LCFA found in other foods. In fact, the saturated and unsaturated fat in milk, eggs, meat and even in plants and most vegetable oils are made of LCFA. Why is this relevant? It is important because our bodies respond and metabolize each fatty acid differently. It is the MCFA found in coconut oil that makes it special because these fatty acids do not have a negative effect on cholesterol. In fact, they are known to lower the risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis. There are only few dietary sources of MCFA, and one of the best sources by far is coconut oil.

   Theliver and gall bladder do not need to digest and emulsify MCFA, resulting in instant energy, increased metabolic rate and subsequently more heat production as well as increased circulation. Anyone with an impaired fat digestion or removed gallbladder will benefit from coconut oil as this oil is easily digested.


So some health benefits:

Skin Conditions
Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact dermatitis,and itchy skin
Reduces allergic reactions and improves skin health
Makes coats become sleek and glossy, and deodorizes doggy odor
Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections, including candida
Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing
Applied topically, promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, hot spots, dry skin and hair, bites and stings

Digestion
Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
Aids healing of digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis
Reduces or eliminates bad breath in dogs
Aids in elimination of hairballs and coughing

Immune System, Metabolic Function, Bone Health
Contains powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal agents that prevent infection and disease
Regulates and balance insulin and promotes normal thyroid function
Helps prevent or control diabetes
Helps reduce weight, increases energy
Aids in arthritis or ligament problems

Thanks very much Inez.

Is it something I can buy in the Supermarket and how much to
you give Vin?

It's briilliant for general health,shiny fur and skin conditions just make sure to use an organic one I use Nutiva 1/2 spoon mixed with food few times a week.

all the above and its supposed to be good for humans too

Yep you can even put it on your hair when washing aparantly!! My OH has started using it as a beard oil! He smells good!

We bought our jar from Tesco. It was in the aisle with all the sunflower oil etc. caught me by surprise as I didn't expect it to be soild!

http://www.tesco.com/groceries/Product/Details/?id=268622297

I give Harrie a full coconut every once in awhile she gets angry with it and eventually breaks it open and eats the whole thing husk and all would that be the same??

We heat a spoon and scrape some oil out of the jar and when it melts just stir it in her food. Try it a couple of times per week.
Pete

I looove coconut oil, its amazing.

I put it in Prus toys and kong for her to lick out (she goes at it for hours) and I also give her the occasional spoonful. I used to put it on her sore patches when she was suffering from mange as well.

Its quite expensive but totally worth it.