Coconut Oil Controversy: Updates in Research
Suggested CDR Learning Codes: 2010, 2020, 3100
Suggested CDR Performance Indicators: 8.1.2, 8.3.6
CPE Level 2
CDR Activity Type 740
This continuing education course discusses the different forms of dietary coconut and their unique biochemical composition and digestion. It also addresses health claims for coconut products based on recent human studies so RDs can help their clients decide whether these products are appropriate to add to the diet.
Learning Objectives
After completing this continuing education course, nutrition professionals should be better able to:
- Identify the different composition and means of digestion of medium-chain and long-chain fatty acids.
- Explain the unique digestion and absorption of medium-chain triglycerides as compared with long-chain triglycerides.
- Describe the potential health benefits of consuming coconut oil for specific disease states including cardiovascular health, weight management, neurological issues, and for the treatment of malabsorption.
Ginger Hultin, MS, RDN, CSO is a nutrition and health writer and integrative oncology specialist. Hultin is chair-elect of the Vegetarian Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group, immediate past president of the Chicago Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and media representative for Chicago through the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She blogs at champagnenutrition.com.
The author has no relevant disclosures to report regarding this program. She has certified that no conflict of interest exists for this program. View our disclosure policy.
Available Credit
- 2.00 CDR