The AHA Presidential Advisory rightly cautioned us about the potential dangers of coconut oil. However, coconut oil represents only a small fraction of all U.S vegetable oils. Americans consume about 1.5 pounds of coconut per capita per year compared to cheese at 35 pounds; red meat, poultry and shell fish at 181 pounds; and finally dairy, at 239 pounds–excluding cheese. Four of the top 10 sources of saturated fat involves meat, yet the media has focused on coconut oil.
PositiveTip: Replace meat, butter, and cheese with beans, vegetable oil spreads and nut-based cheeses to really lower the risk of heart disease.