"Expeller-Pressed" Coconut Oil vs. extra virgin CO

[emma1325]

Is there a huge difference?

I went out and bought some Tropical Traditions organic expeller-pressed coconut oil. Is it as good as extra-virgin CO or am I wasting my time taking it? I'm trying it out for weight loss purposes, as well as some severe dry skin issues.

Would I do better going out and buying extra virgin, and if so, which brand would you recommend?

Thanks!

[Purple Sage]

I have the same question.

[LauraLoo]

This is from Tropical Traditions website:
http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/faq.htm#11

2. Are the Nutrient Benefits of EPCO the same as Virgin Coconut Oil (VCNO)?
As far as the comparison between the Expeller Pressed Coconut Oil (EPCO) and the VCNO, the EPCO still has the medium chain fatty acids/tryglicerides (MCTs) that are the major reason for the nutrient benefits of coconut oil. These are what studies say increase metabolism, support the immune system, etc. What the EPCO is missing is some of the nutrients and anti-oxidant properties that are in VCNO, like Vitamin E, for example (although coconut oil is not a real significant source of vitamin E: Palm oil is better for that.)

The general rule in nutrition is that the closer to nature/natural the better. What we do know, is that many of the studies that have been done on MCTs and report their benefits have been done on regular (non-virgin) coconut oil, or in some cases pure extracted MCT’s taken out of coconut oil. The customer testimonies (which may not be typical) and feedback we have gotten from our VCNO suggests that it is more potent than refined coconut oil (EPCO). But many people are reporting good results from the EPCO as well.

[smithk75]

I just read on Sally Fallon's "Eat Fat Lose Fat" website today that for people who can't handle the taste of coconut, to try expeller pressed. So I think if she's recommending it, it must still have it's desired effect. ? I personally use mostly expeller pressed because I just don't like the coconut taste.