tabra1,
Yes, I'm very interested in reading/researching anything that has to do with nutrition or health. It's interesting and a good way to try to maintain good health.
I can't say that I know everything about ALL oils. But I do know some things in general. For example, all oils should be used sparingly because they are all 100% fat.
Coconut oil is said to be high in saturated fat but I couldn't find what the percentage is per tablespoon. Do you know? I learned a long time ago to stay away from coconut because it's high in saturated fat, so I imagine that coconut oil is likewise high in saturated fat. I believe olive oil contains 14% saturated fat. So how does that compare with coconut oil?
The mediterranean diet includes olive oil. Dr Sears, of the Zone Diet, says that olive oil is the best because it comes from fruit. (Yes, olives grow on trees so they are considered to be fruit.) Because the oil comes from fruit it's supposed to be high in antioxidants. Coconuts come from trees too but I've never read any health book that recommends coconut oil. It must be because it's high in saturated fat.
Having said that, there's one doctor that I know of, Dr. Dean Ornish, who says that not even olive oil is that good because it contains 14% saturated fat. For people who are trying to reverse coronary artery disease, he recommends that they avoid oils. If that's the case, then where are we to get our good fats that are essential for health? I'll have to reread his book.
I don't have coronary artery disease so I use small amounts of extra virgin olive oil and small amounts of various nuts.
