Coconut Oil and Mental Health: What Research Shows

Coconut Oil and Mental Health: What Research Shows

Scientific studies reveal coconut oil may offer natural support for mental wellness:

Helps Reduce Depression:

Improves Brain Chemistry:

• Study on depression-associated cognitive deficits found virgin coconut oil modulated critical brain neurotransmitters (GABA and glutamate) and improved hippocampal antioxidant balance in mice Navyprofessional PubMed Study
• Research found VCO treatment alleviated depressive-like behaviors, reduced neuronal loss in the hippocampus, and decreased neuronal apoptosis by activating protective brain pathways Nivea ScienceDirect Study
• Scientists concluded findings support using VCO to enhance neural resilience in patients with depression and related disorders Navyprofessional PubMed

Boosts Mood-Enhancing Chemicals:

• Coconut oil raises tryptophan levels, an amino acid that acts as a precursor to serotonin, helping promote a happy mood while fighting off mental conditions like depression Dermatology Times Healthier Steps
• The lauric acid in coconut oil increases dopamine levels in your brain, a feel-good hormone associated with pleasurable sensation and increased response to stress Dermatology Times Healthier Steps

Clinical Results in Patients:

• Four-month study with 51 multiple sclerosis patients found combining coconut oil with EGCG (green tea extract) significantly decreased depression levels and increased albumin, which may help reduce free cortisol PubMedScienceDirect PMC Clinical Study

Reduces Stress and Anxiety:

Lowers Stress Markers:

• Stressed mice treated with virgin coconut oil showed higher brain antioxidant levels, lower brain serotonin (5-HT), and reduced adrenal gland weight compared to untreated controls PubMed Central PMC Study
• VCO was able to restore serum biochemical profiles (lowering cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose and corticosterone levels) in stressed mice PubMed Central PMC Study
• Researchers concluded virgin coconut oil has value as an anti-stress functional oil PubMed Central PMC Study

Reduces Stress Behaviors:

• In the forced swim test (a standard measure of stress and depression), mice treated with VCO showed significantly shorter immobility time, indicating less stress and depression PubMed Central PMC Study

Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

• VCO inhibited microglial and astrocytic activation (brain inflammation) and exerted anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects to alleviate depressive-like behaviors Nivea ScienceDirect

How Coconut Oil Supports Mental Health:

Provides Alternative Brain Energy:

• The MCTs in coconut oil are easily broken down into ketones, which the brain can use for energy, helping stabilize brain functions especially for those experiencing mood swings Coconuts & Kettlebells TRENPA Article
• The MCTs in coconut oil can be quickly converted into ketones, which serve as an alternative energy source for the brain, contributing to better cognitive function and mood regulation Medical News Today Neurolaunch

Protects Brain Cells:

• Researchers have called coconut oil an "antidepressant functional food" due to its unique combination of medium-chain fatty acids and antioxidants ResearchGate Be Brain Fit
• Coconut oil possesses antioxidant properties that neutralize damaging free radicals, which brain cells are particularly vulnerable to since they use a disproportionate amount of oxygen ResearchGate Be Brain Fit
• Coconut oil is anti-inflammatory, which is key because brain inflammation is a contributing factor to depression ResearchGate Be Brain Fit

Supports Neurotransmitter Balance:

• Coconut oil's anti-inflammatory properties and support for neurotransmitter production make it a promising supplement for mental well-being and mood stability Coconuts & Kettlebells TRENPA

Recommended Usage:

Most studies used 2-3 tablespoons (30-40ml) of virgin coconut oil daily. You can:

• Add it to smoothies or coffee
• Use it for cooking (has a high smoke point)
• Take it directly by the spoonful
• Mix it into oatmeal or yogurt

Important to Know:

• Use virgin (unrefined) coconut oil for best results - it contains beneficial polyphenols and medium-chain fatty acids
• Coconut oil should complement, not replace, mental health treatment and therapy
• There's little scientific evidence that coconut oil provides anxiety relief in healthy people, but it has been found helpful for those dealing with serious health concerns such as cancer or multiple sclerosis ResearchGate Be Brain Fit
• Effects may be enhanced when combined with exercise and a healthy lifestyle
• Always consult your healthcare provider, especially if you're taking medications for depression or anxiety

The Bottom Line:

Research shows virgin coconut oil may naturally support mental wellness by providing alternative brain fuel, reducing inflammation, protecting brain cells, and balancing mood-related neurotransmitters. While studies are promising, coconut oil works best as part of a comprehensive approach to mental health that includes proper medical care, therapy when needed, regular exercise, and a balanced diet.

Remember: Coconut oil is a supportive tool, not a replacement for professional mental health treatment. If you're experiencing depression or anxiety, please reach out to a healthcare provider.