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They say coconut oil can aid weight loss, but can it really?

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition volume 71, pages 1139–1143 (2017)Cite this article

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Abstract

There has in recent years, been much media speculation and consumer interest in the beneficial satiating properties of consuming coconut oil and its potential to aid weight loss. However, the media has primarily cited studies using medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oil. The current perspective looks at the research that is available on coconut oil. It examines if and how MCT-related research can be applied to coconut oil and if there is potential for coconut oil to aid weight loss. The current report indicates a lack of consistent evidence on the topic of coconut oil, satiety and weight loss. Given both the publicity and the increased consumption of coconut oil further research, particularly long-term clinical trials, in this area are warranted.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Functional Food Centre, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK

    M E Clegg

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Correspondence to M E Clegg.

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Clegg, M. They say coconut oil can aid weight loss, but can it really?. Eur J Clin Nutr 71, 1139–1143 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/ejcn.2017.86

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