Energy drinks, fat-free cooking and more: Best ways to use coconut oil

Making your hair shiny smooth isn’t the only good thing coconut oil does. It can help your fitness regime too! (iStock)

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Did you know that ­coconut oil has many amazing possibilities apart from ensuring beautiful lustrous hair?

It is free of chemicals and is used in many beauty products. From your beauty counter to your ­kitchen pantry, here’s how to make the best of this magic potion:

1. Instant energy booster
There are days when you feel drained out even before the day has started. To give yourself a quick energy fix, mix a tablespoon of ­coconut oil with a tablespoon of chia seeds and consume on an empty stomach. This will keep you going all day.

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This mix is also great for athletes and can replace the unhealthy energy drinks. It’s a pre-workout drink, and for best results, consume it seven hours before the workout.

2. Smooth shave 

If you have run out of shaving cream or aftershave lotion, add a smooth finish to your shave by simply patting the skin with the oil.

3. Anti-ageing 

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It is enriched with Vitamin E and known to keep skin healthy. Some health experts also suggest using it in salads. Just drizzle a few drops on fresh veggies or stir-fry them in the oil. It will give you a younger looking skin.

4. Banish those sweet cravings 

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Face trouble losing weight because you just can’t get over sweets? Curb your sweet tooth by drinking a spoonful of virgin coconut oil with lukewarm water.

5. Fat-free cooking 

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It helps in breaking fat from the body and ­fastens your metabolism. It is low on the calorie count and is great to use for cooking for all those who like to count their calories. It is also an excellent replacement for ­butter.

6. Sunscreen 

Coconut oil also makes for a natural and ­chemical-free ­sunscreen with an SPF ­somewhere between 7.5 and 8. If you are afraid of the harsh chemicals in your sunscreen, then it’s time you give ­coconut oil a chance. Those with oily skin or skin that easily breaks out can mix a few drops in the body lotion or rose water and apply daily.

Source : Hindustan Times