COCONUT milk, or santan as it's known in Malaysia, is a staple ingredient in many beloved local dishes, from rendang to laksa. This is a popular misconception, as cholesterol is only found in animal products, not plant-based foods like coconut milk. However, the confusion arises because coconut milk does contain saturated fat, which can raise blood cholesterol levels when consumed in excess. One study found that coconut milk can help increase levels of good HDL cholesterol whilst having neutral or even positive effects on bad LDL cholesterol levels. Excessive consumption of coconut milk can lead to weight gain due to its high calorie content and may contribute to elevated cholesterol levels.

Source: The Star January 22, 2026 01:34 UTC