What is MCT Oil? Benefits, Uses and Everything You Need to Know.

Introduction

Medium-Chain Triglyceride (MCT) oil has gained significant popularity in recent years for its numerous health benefits. From aiding in weight loss to boosting energy levels and enhancing brain function, MCT oil is being incorporated into the diets of many health enthusiasts and athletes. But what exactly is MCT oil, and why is it so beneficial?

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of MCT oil, exploring its definition, sources, health benefits, usage recommendations, and potential side effects. By the end of this article, you will have a thorough understanding of MCT oil and how it can contribute to your overall health and well-being.

Understanding MCT Oil

What Are Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs)?

Definition of MCTs
Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) are a type of fat found in certain oils and dairy products. Unlike long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) that contain more than 12 carbon atoms, MCTs consist of fatty acids with a chain length of 6-12 carbon atoms.

Chemical Structure of MCTs

Fat Type	Carbon Atoms	Examples Sources
Short-Chain	<6	Butter, some Dairy
Medium-Chain	6-12	Coconut Oil, Palm Kernel Oil
Long-Chain	>12	Most Vegetable Oil

 

MCTs are named based on the number of carbon atoms they contain:

• C6: Caproic acid
• C8: Caprylic acid
• C10: Capric acid
• C12: Lauric acid

Differences Between MCTs and Other Types of Fats

• Absorption and Metabolism: MCTs are rapidly absorbed and transported directly to the liver, where they are quickly converted into energy or ketones, bypassing the usual fat storage route.
• Energy Source: MCTs provide a quick and efficient source of energy, unlike LCTs, which take longer to digest and metabolize.

Sources of MCTs
Natural Sources of MCTs

Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is one of the richest natural sources of MCTs, containing all four types of MCTs with a high concentration of lauric acid (C12).

Palm Kernel Oil
Palm kernel oil is another excellent source of MCTs, particularly rich in capric and caprylic acids.

Dairy Products
Whole milk and butter contain smaller amounts of MCTs, primarily capric and caprylic acids.

Health Benefits of MCT Oil

Weight Loss and Management

How MCT Oil Aids in Weight Loss
MCT oil can help reduce body fat and increase fullness, leading to reduced calorie intake.

Scientific Studies Supporting Weight Loss Claims
Studies have shown that MCTs can increase the body’s ability to burn calories and fat.

Energy and Athletic Performance

• MCTs as a Quick Energy Source
• Due to their rapid absorption and conversion to energy, MCTs are an excellent source of fuel for athletes.
• Benefits for Athletes and Bodybuilders
• MCT oil can enhance endurance and performance, making it a popular supplement among athletes.

Brain Function and Mental Clarity

• How MCTs Support Brain Health
• MCTs produce ketones, an alternative energy source for the brain, which can improve cognitive function.
• Potential Benefits for Cognitive Disorders
• Research suggests MCTs may benefit those with Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders.

Other Health Benefits

Cholesterol and Heart Health

• Impact of MCTs on Cholesterol Levels
• MCTs may help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).
• Some studies have indicated that MCTs can improve overall heart health.

Diabetes Management

• MCTs can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Research has shown that MCTs can benefit people with type 2 diabetes by reducing insulin resistance.

Digestive Health

• MCTs are easily digestible and beneficial for those with malabsorption disorders.
• MCTs are used in ketogenic diets to help manage epilepsy, particularly in children.

 

How to Use MCT Oil

Dosage Recommendations
Recommended Daily Intake
The typical recommended dosage ranges from 1-5 tablespoons per day.

How to Start and Increase Dosage
Start with small doses and gradually increase to avoid gastrointestinal issues.

Ways to Incorporate MCT Oil into Your Diet

• Cooking with MCT Oil
• MCT oil can be used in cooking due to its stability at high temperatures.
• Adding MCT Oil to Drinks and Smoothies
• MCT oil can easily be added to coffee, smoothies, and other beverages.

 

Conclusion

MCT oil offers numerous health benefits, including weight loss, energy boost, and improved brain function. Incorporating MCT oil into your diet can be a simple yet effective way to enhance your overall health.

Our products with MCT Oil:

• MCT Coffee
• Tru-Protein
• Tru-Quinoa

 

References and Further Reading

Scientific Papers and Articles:

Aubrey Bosarge, et al. "Weight-loss diet that includes consumption of medium-chain triacylglycerol oil leads to a greater rate of weight and fat mass loss than does olive oil" - PubMed

Junpei Takeishi, et al. "Alzheimer's Disease and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: The Use of MCT Oil and a Ketogenic Diet" - PubMed

Tomas J. Chapman-Lopez, et al. "The Effects of Medium-Chain Triglyceride Oil Supplementation on Endurance Performance and Substrate Utilization in Healthy Populations: A Systematic Review" - PubMed

Ming-Hua Sung, et al. "Medium-Chain Triglycerides Lower Blood Lipids and Body Weight in Streptozotocin-Induced Type 2 Diabetes Rats" - PubMed