Emma Thackery wrote:

> I recently read that, depending on the recipe, coconut oil
> is a decent substitute for hydrogenated shortening (for baking)
> and allegedly a lot healthier.

Saturated fats like those in coconut oil contribute to
cardiovascular disease. Few associations between
harmful behaviors and adverse health consequences
are as well-documented as this one.

For more information, see:

http://www.webdietitian.com/document...atedfattyacids

http://www.ianr.unl.edu/pubs/foods/nf61.htm
http://www.diet-and-health.net/Disea...ovascular.html

Coconut oil is even worse than beef fat or lard.