Why we love Coconut

Coconut is extremely popular these days,in particular the oil. It’s one of nature’s gifts to humans and fur babies.

It can be used internally and externally (the Oil).

Supplements can be very confusing to the average pet owner and, you probably have heard about the benefits of adding oils to your pet’s diet. Oils contain essential fatty acids and nutrients, which, as the name indicates, are essential to your pet’s health.

Coconut oil is one of these oils. The fats in coconut oil are considered “conditionally essential,” meaning that at under certain circumstances (such as during pregnancy and early growth) they are essential. But that doesn’t mean you don’t use them at other life stages.

Remember, oil is oil and oils have diuretic properties, so one drop to much and as I always say, “you and they will both suffer”.

So, keep this in mind when using coconut oil or any oil. If you are concerned about this fact you can use desiccated or shredded coconut (which does not have the same effect but still has all the same benefits) then you can sprinkle away with little concern.

As a guide the daily full-strength dose of Coconut Oil recommended generally is half a teaspoon for every 5 kilos (you would start on half this dose and work up to full dose depending on your pet’s reaction).

One cup of Fresh shredded coconut contains about 2 Tablespoons of coconut oil, and a cup of dried shredded coconut is approximately 3.5 Tablespoons of coconut oil.

In Addition to the above coconut has become more popular as people have discovered its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties, skin and coat and not to mention the little-known fact of its rehydration properties for humans and our fur babies. Some vets even recommend coconut for medicinal purposes.

Simply put:

It has been proven that coconut can gently elevate the metabolism, provide a higher level of energy and vitality, whilst protecting from illness, and speed up healing. As a bonus, coconut improves skin and coat, digestion, Hydration and reduces allergic reactions. All whilst being extra tasty! So why wouldn’t you use it. It’s a win ..win all round.

In Brief:

Overall Health:

Antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal aid
Increases energy and metabolism, which helps aids with weight
Helps regulate and balance insulin
Promotes normal thyroid function
Helps prevent or control diabetes

Digestion Benefits:

Improvement in digestion and nutrient absorption
Breath
Assists with digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis
Helps with coughs problems

Skin Conditions:

Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact dermatitis and itchy skin
Minimises allergic reactions and improves skin health
Coats become more sleek and glossy
Can reduce that doggy aroma, as it neutralizes odours
Prevents and assists with fungal infections
Helps wounds and hotspots heals, and takes the sting out of bug bites when applied topically
Reduces weeping eye stain

Feeding suggestions:

Coconut can be poured (Oil) or sprinkled over food wet or dry (shredded or desiccated).

As a treat: - Plain Greek Yogurt add fruit (frozen or fresh) and sprinkle desiccated or shredded coconut over the top. Using frozen fruits are a great summer way to serve and then in the cooler months you can warm fruit in microwave.