“What do you think about the health benefits of coconut oil, given the recent hype?”

ANSWER: Coconut oil is a concentrated, saturated fat. I've known a few people who got into trouble (liver problems, mainly), by over-consuming coconut oil.

Coconut oil is a refined food, like refined sugar. It is pure, concentrated fat. Most people already eat too much fat in the first place, so I don't see the benefits in adding a *concentrated* fat like coconut oil to their diet.

If you want to benefit from the nutrients in coconuts, do not consume the oil. Instead, consume WHOLE coconuts, young if possible. You'll get a food that is much more beneficial, much easier to digest, and cheaper too.

YOUNG COCONUTS

“Do young coconuts belong in the raw food diet? I cannot imagine how primitive man could open them without tools. What do you think? Thanks.” - Eric Rothwarf.

ANSWER: Yes, young coconuts can be a nice addition to a raw diet. It's possible to open them with only rude tools, such as rocks. I've personally had the experience to try that when I was traveling in tropical countries!