Refined coconut oil undergoes a refining process that may involve the use of harsh chemicals such as hexane or a more gentle steam refining process, depending on where it’s sourced. On an ingredient label, it won’t be possible to know which method of refining is used, but researching a brand’s methods when purchasing coconut oil at a store is possible. Refining coconut oil may result in the loss of some antioxidants. Coconut oil is rich in saturated fat, which has negative implications for cardiovascular health. However, the type of saturated fat that coconut oil is rich in is medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which have been studied to affect metabolism and body composition positively. Coconut oil has shown that it can increase both LDL and HDL cholesterol, and research has been mixed on how this impacts cardiovascular health. Ultimately, coconut oil is a very stable cooking oil that is not as heat-sensitive as polyunsaturated fats, making it a better option for higher-heat cooking. Refined coconut oil may be healthfully consumed in moderation, however, it is very high in calories and could impact cardiovascular health when consumed in excess.