coconut

Question
Hi
I come from a part of India where coconut and coconut oil are used a lot in cooking.I now live in the USA.I was wondering if coconut and its products are healthy since they contain saturated fats.We do eat dairy but not eggs or any kind of meat.Is it ok to give my kids [age 2 and 4] food made from coconut and coconut oil or will it lead to heart conditions or obesity?
Thanks
[basic knowledge of biochemistry can be assumed]

Answer
Coconut and coconut oil ARE high in saturated fat although recent research has said that the type of saturated fat in coconut is actually healthy.  Since this is not yet proven I would say it is OK to use but in moderation.  NO ONE food will lead to heart conditions and obesity.  Those things are caused by a combination of things such as an overall unhealthy diet, too many calories, lack of physical activity, smoking, etc...  
Kim Tessmer, RD LD
www.Nutrifocus.net

1. Prev:Diet and Metabolism
2. Next:coconut and coconut oil