It’s a common ingredient in shampoos, skin creams, and tanning products, with a sweet smell that evokes imagery of tropical paradise.

But coconut oil is considered by many to be a “miracle oil” with a host of dietary benefits, and those who cook with it believe it improves digestion, boosts metabolism and immune health, improves mental focus, and supports hormone production. Others say that the lauric acid content and medium-chain triglycerides it contains can help with weight loss and lower cholesterol.

So is coconut oil really a healthy alternative to vegetable oils, and is it the “safe” source of saturated fat that many websites claim it is?

The American Heart Association recently issued a science advisory warning people not to ingest coconut oil due to its high levels of saturated fat. The consumption of saturated fat from all sources raises LDL, or “bad” cholesterol levels, which can contribute to the buildup and hardening of fatty plaque in arteries and lead to heart attacks and strokes.

The advisory noted that coconut oil holds 82 percent saturated fat; by comparison, canola oil contains only 7 percent saturated fat. One tablespoon of coconut oil contains 11 grams of unsaturated fat, just 2 grams short of the heart association’s recommended daily limit.

Researchers reportedly looked at hundreds of studies published since the 1950s and concluded that saturated fats should make up less than 10 percent of our daily caloric intake. The advisory also recommended using polyunsaturated oils for cooking, including canola, flaxseed, soy, and sunflower oils.

Olive oil, avocados, and tree nuts — such as almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, pistachios, and pecans — are also low in saturated fats.

The warning sparked a massive outcry online, with some challenging nutritional norms by insisting that cardiovascular disease is caused by inflammation and oxidized cholesterol from sugars, carbohydrates, and vegetable oils. Others claimed the recommendation was tied to pressure from pharmaceutical and agricultural corporations, as well as multi-national food businesses collectively known as “Big Food.”

While a majority of Americans believe coconut oil is a healthy food, medical experts agree that there’s simply no evidence of long-term health benefits associated coconut oil. In fact, it’s calorie-dense and holds more saturated fat than butter, beef tallow, and lard, according to one weight-loss expert.

The bottom line: When cooking with oils, it’s important to pick the healthiest option and consume fatty foods in moderation, as part of a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise.

Tampa Cardiovascular Associates, with offices in Tampa and Wesley Chapel, is ready to help you make dietary and lifestyle changes to improve your cardiovascular health. For a free screening and consultation, visit our website or call 813-975-2800.