COCONUT OIL ALTERNATIVES
Q I had seen in some previous columns that you recommend having a tablespoon of coconut oil first thing in the morning to improve metabolism and improve gut health for improved well being. I would love to improve my gut health, but the thing is that I don’t like the taste of coconut oil, particularly early in the morning. Can you suggest an option for me? A I agree that some people may find it a bit difficult to have a tablespoon of coconut oil first thing in the morning. The good news is that you need not have it if you can’t handle the taste and smell. Instead of coconut oil, you can consider ghee, organic butter, avocado, or organic no-sugar peanut butter. The idea is to start your day with fat.
You need to make sure to avoid an insulin spike first thing in the morning.
When you start with carbs, your sugar levels soar and then crash soon after, followed by you feeling hungry all through the day. In my clinical practice, I have noticed how people feel fuller for longer and more satiated when they start their day with fat.
The good fats also line your gut and prepare it to accept all the nutrients that are about to be absorbed all through the day. Healing your gut with good fats is the first step towards losing weight, having better digestion, improving your sleep cycle and reducing sugar cravings.
It’s a great idea to add a vitamin D supplement, as this is a fat-soluble vitamin, so having it along with fat will ensure better, more efficient absorption.