Coconut oil is commonly used for cooking, skin moisturization, and hair oiling in tropical regions. Even research shows that consuming coconut oil is beneficial for children (1). If you want to try coconut oil for kids, use it in small amounts if they have not had it earlier. But before feeding coconut oil to your little one, consult a pediatrician if your child has a family history of coconut allergy or is allergic to tree nuts such as hazelnuts. Read on as we tell your more about the possible benefits of coconut oil for children and the side effects it may cause.
Is Coconut Oil Healthy To Use For Children?
The uses of coconut oil are either topical or dietary. There are conflicting views on the dietary use of coconut oil. According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Publish Health, coconut oil is known to contain 80 to 90% of saturated fat. (2) (3). It is slow to oxidize and has antioxidant properties. However, according to the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, the unique fatty acid composition of coconut oil does not seem to increase the risk of heart disease (4). The American Academy of Pediatrics counts coconut oil as a healthy fat and suggests adding it to a child’s diet (5). The academy’s suggestion may indicate that moderate consumption of coconut oil could be healthy for children. The topical use of coconut oil seems to offer some benefits. The oil is considered a good moisturizer for hair and skin (2). It is rich in antibacterial and anti bacterial agents. Thus, increases the child’s immunity. A few fatty acids found in coconut oil may have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties (4).
What Are The Likely Benefits Of Coconut Oil For Children?
Coconut oil has been found to have the below uses. Do not use coconut oil as a replacement for a doctor’s advice or prescribed medication. Ask your child’s doctor or a pediatric nutritionist for the quantity of dietary coconut oil your child can take.
Are There Any Possible Side Effects Of Coconut Oil For Children?
There are no significant side effects of coconut oil for children. However, some of the rare ones include:
Some children who are allergic to tree nuts and peanuts might be allergic to coconut as well (11).
Children who are overweight or have high cholesterol may consider avoiding coconut oil due to the oil’s cholesterol levels.
