The 2016 resurrected study goes on to say:
“The molecules that we eat every day as foods act as substrates, which enter into and regulate numerous highly leveraged biochemical pathways. Thus, although the story of the traditional diet-heart hypothesis did not unfold as predicted, the foods that we eat likely play critical roles in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Given the complexity of biological systems and limitations of our research methods, however, current understanding of the biochemical and clinical effects of foods is rudimentary. The history of the traditional diet-heart hypothesis suggests that nutrition research could be improved by not overemphasizing intermediate biomarkers; cautious interpretation of non-randomized studies; and ensuring timely and complete publication of all randomized controlled trials. Given the limitations of current evidence, the best approach might be one of humility, highlighting limitations of current knowledge and setting a high bar for advising intakes beyond what can be provided by natural diets.”
Is Coconut Oil Bad for You?
In short: not if you limit your intake.
As long as you aren’t going through half a container every day, using a few tablespoons of coconut oil to cook your meals is perfectly fine.
A good rule of thumb to remember is that daily intake shouldn’t exceed 35% of total caloric intake with no more than ten percent coming from saturated fat. (18)
A combination of saturated (coconut, butter, animal fat) and unsaturated fats (olive, avocado, sesame, nuts, fish) will provide the most nutritional benefit.
Please keep in mind that although there are guidelines, you need fat (including the saturated kind) in your diet to support and maintain overall health.