Did you know you can use coconut oil in smoothies? Coconut oil is an excellent addition to smoothies, but you should know a few things before adding it to your daily drink.
You probably know about the benefits of coconut oil (unless you’ve been living under a rug). Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (also know as medium-chain fatty acids) that boost energy, aid in weight loss, increase metabolism and also contains lauric acid, which supports the immune system. So it makes a great addition to a healthy diet.
In this article, I want to share how to use coconut oil in smoothies and tips and tricks to get the best results.
Best Type of Coconut Oil for Smoothies
Before you start, you should be aware that there are different types of coconut oil. I have a whole article dedicated to sorting through all the different types of coconut oil, but here’s the condensed version:
- Virgin Coconut Oil: This is the best and is raw, unrefined coconut oil.
- Extra Virgin Coconut Oil: Same as virgin coconut oil. Don’t pay more for a label!
- Expeller Pressed: Refined, but usually refined with heat and safe for cooking.
- RBD Coconut Oil: RBD stands for the manufacturing process Refined, Bleached, and Deodorized. This is NOT an oil I recommend using.
- Liquid or MCT Oil: This oil is fractionated and always stays liquid. It’s very high in medium chain triglycerides but doesn’t contain health-promoting lauric acid.
What is the best coconut oil to use in smoothies? In my opinion, the best coconut oil for smoothies is virgin coconut oil or liquid MCT oil. Both contain high amounts of medium-chain triglycerides and are pretty tasteless when added to smoothies.
How To Add Coconut Oil To Smoothies
Because coconut oil is solid above room temperature, it can add unwanted chunks to cold liquids and smoothies. No thanks!
To avoid this issue, I melt the coconut oil first, then slowly drizzle the melted coconut oil into the smoothie while blending. As a result, the coconut oil mixes thoroughly into the smoothie and leaves it with a smooth texture.
If you decide to use liquid coconut oil, you can add it to the blender, and it will blend into the smoothie.
If you’re looking for recipes for coconut oil smoothies, I have my favorite smoothie recipe in the recipe card below.
How Much Coconut Oil Should You Add To Smoothies?
It’s best to speak with your healthcare provider about how much oil you should consume. I’m all about including plant-based healthy fats in my diet, but I keep my saturated fat intake on the lower side, so I add only 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil to my smoothies for this purpose.
If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy the health benefits of coconut oil, try adding a teaspoon to your morning coffee, mix it into coconut milk shake, or make homemade coconut oil chocolate! If you’re on the ketogenic diet, you may enjoy this keto smoothie recipe. Also check out these incredible coconut oil recipes here!
PrintHow To Use Coconut Oil in Smoothies
Make a delicious smoothie with the addition of coconut oil! This healthy smoothie is a great way to add coconut oil into your diet.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 smoothie 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Blender
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup of greens – I like to use a mix of kale and spinach
- 1 frozen banana
- 1/2 cup of frozen berries
- 1/2 tablespoon ground flax seeds
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
- almond milk or coconut water
- melted coconut oil or MCT Oil – I add 1 teaspoon but you can add up to a tablespoon of coconut oil to this smoothie.
Instructions
- You will need a high-speed blender or vitamin to make this smoothie.
- Place all the ingredients except the coconut oil into the blender basin.
- Blend the smoothie, and open the lid and slowly add the melted coconut oil into the smoothie. If you’re using liquid coconut oil, you do not need to do this step.
- Pour the smoothie into a glass and drink immediately.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 262
- Fat: 8.2g
- Carbohydrates: 47.6g
- Fiber: 9.8g
- Protein: 5.7g
Leave a Comment