Thanks to Lisa Feiner, our May speaker from the non-profit organization, Sharp Again Naturally, I am back to enjoying a spoonful or two of coconut oil each day.

Sharp Again Naturally’s website reminded me that “All of your cell membranes and about 60-70% of the brain and are made up of fats. Cholesterol is a very important component of the support structure of the brain and many cell functions take place within the cell membrane. Since about the 1950’s many people in this country have been using 100% vegetable oil…usually hydrogenated polyunsaturated fat…, which can carry free radicals into your cell membranes. If you begin to substitute coconut and other natural oils, such as olive oil and even butter, along with omega-3 oils you may be able to undo some of the damage.

“Most of the cells of the body turn over within 3 to 6 months and you may notice a nicer texture to your skin, and a decrease in certain problems such as yeast and fungal infections [if you incorporate some coconut

Lisa also reminded me of Dr. Mary Newport who has written that she believes Alzheimer’s and other dementias are a sort of diabetes of the brain, when brain cells have trouble taking in sugar as fuel. Dr. Newport says that ketones, a byproduct of fat metabolism, can be an alternative fuel for the brain, and that coconut oil can help generate ketones in the body.

Check out her book, “Alzheimer’s Disease: what if there was a cure?” For more information, go to www.coconutketones.com.

Ketones can also serve as alternative fuel for other cells in the body that are insulin resistant or cannot transport glucose. Dr. Newport believes this could lessen effects of diabetes I/II on the brain and other organs as well.

Enough of the health reasons for eating some coconut oil regularly! This recipe is delish, takes minutes to make, and can be used as a frosting, as a dip for strawberries or other fruit. Try some on a banana, too! Try a couple of dollops in a pretty wine glass for dessert.

Makes 1½ Cups

¾ good quality coconut oil	½ C organic cacao or cocoa powder
¼ C raw, unfiltered honey	2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Simply melt coconut oil and honey in a small pot over low heat. Stir in cacao or cocoa powder (must be organic for all the reasons you know) and vanilla extract. Voila! That’s it. Now go enjoy.