UST scientists: Virgin coco oil has beneficial effects on cholesterol, sex

MANILA, Philippines—A team of scientists and doctors from the University of Sto. Tomas said Wednesday a clinical study they conducted showed that taking virgin coconut oil, or VCO, had beneficial effects on one’s cholesterol level.

A research team led by Dr. Christina Binag of the UST Research Center for Natural and Applied Science said the double-blind study, where both researchers and subjects were not aware of who were taking VCO and the placebo, showed decreases in triglycerides and very low density lipoprotein, which is considered bad cholesterol.

The subjects in the four-month study, which was commissioned by the Philippine Coconut Authority, also showed elevated high-density lipoprotein, or good cholesterol. No change was seen with low-density lipoprotein.

“This improved cholesterol: HDL ratio can be translated to making the individual less prone to having heart attack or stroke,” the team said in its report. No change was seen in the lipid profile of the placebo group.

“Other parameters were likewise affected by VCO. There was unexplained rise in creatinine but still within the normal range. Elevations in Free Thyroid 3 and Free Thyroid 4 were noted due to enhanced thyroid function. No change was noted with BMI [body mass index] and weight.”

Aside from these clinical effects, the group also reported that those who took the VCO felt stronger and healthier. They reported regular bowel movement, increase in appetite and stamina, and better sleep with regular VCO intake of 3 tablespoons a day.

Some members of the group also said they were more virile during the test phase. “It was an interesting observation that 13 percent of the VCO takers experienced becoming sexually active in the whole duration of their participation in the VCO study,” the team said.

“Hindi lang pang-gata, pang sex pa,” said Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala.

He hailed the study, noting that it would help the Department of Agriculture market  VCO.

“In the past, we only heard anecdotes of the benefits. Now, it’s the doctors and scientists who have confirmed it,” he said.

The VCO takers also reported negative effects such as stomach ache, soft bowels, sweating and nausea.