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MCT Oil is among the fastest sources of fuel that is clean and ideal for your brain and body. The oil is considered one of the best ways to support a healthy metabolism, power up your performance, and support your weight management program since it is easier to convert it into caloric energy.
What is MCT Oil?
MCT is an acronym for Medium Chain Triglycerides, a form of saturated fatty acids found in most foods and has numerous health benefits. These kinds of fatty acids are vital and help support healthy brain functions and many other body system functions.
MCT Oil plays an important role in weight management since it has a positive effect on leptin receptors. The leptin receptors aid in reducing food cravings by making you feel fuller for longer.
The greatest source of MCT oils is coconut oil. Approximately 44% -53% of the fatty acids in coconut oil are MCT Oils. However, MCT Oil supplements are beginning to gain popularity in today’s market.
MCT Oils are beneficial nutrients that are lacking in the diets of many people because most people believe that saturated fats may cause heart at
Why Should You Use MCT Oil?
MCT Oil is a specific type of saturated fat obtained from palm kernel or coconut oil. MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides, and they are easily digestible compared to long-chain triglycerides (found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil). The body can convert these medium-chain triglycerides into ketones, which are only helpful when you are on a ketogenic diet.
Unlike most supplements, not all MCT oils are similar. Do you want the best of the best? Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil, derived from coconuts, can help you fight food cravings, promote mental focus and alertness, heart health and give you the energy to burn excess fat. Individuals who are not on a ketogenic diet can also reap the benefits of MCT Oil.
Research also shows that MCT Oil supports brain health and helps boost mental alertness and sharpness. MCT Oil also has anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties and aids in the management of epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease.
Are there Different Types of MCT Oils?
Yes, there exist different types of MCT Oils. First, it is common knowledge that most MCT Oils are made up of medium-chain triglycerides. However, there is a possibility that you will find some MCT Oils that contain long-chain fatty acids. Furthermore, you can get MCT Oils from two different sources; palm kernel oil and coconut oil. The fatty acids are extracted from these oils to make MCT Oil through a process called fractionation.
Coconut oil contains both long-chain triglycerides and medium-chain triglycerides. Through the process of fractionation, the medium-chain triglycerides are extracted. A company that manufactures MCT Oil may choose to extract the saturated fatty acids from coconut oil only, palm kernel oil only, or both palm kernel and coconut oil. However, the percentages of the oils may vary in the MCT Oil.
Medium-chain triglycerides also exist in different kinds. MCT Oil may contain different combinations medium chain fatty acids, including C6, C8, C10, and C12.
- C6 – caproic acid
- C8 – caprylic acid
- C10 – capric acid
- C12 – lauric acid
What are the Main Benefits and Uses of MCT Oil?
MCTs are new on the market, and research is still ongoing about their side effects and positive effects. MCT Oil supplementation has become popular on the market among bodybuilders and athletes.
MCT Oil has many benefits to the body because of its high concentration of coconut oil. Here are some of the benefits of adding MCT Oil to your diet;
- MCT Oil promotes weight loss and fat-burning – Current research shows that MCT oil promotes the release of hormones leptin and peptide YY, that help reduce food cravings by making you feel fuller. Some studies also support that MCT oil supplementation helps reduce obesity, waist circumference, and general body weight.
- MCT Oil boosts energy levels in the brain – The body easily absorbs MCTs because their fatty acid chains contain more carbon. Since their chain lengths are shorter, they travel faster from the gut to the liver and they do not need bile to break them down. In the liver, MCTs are converted into ketones, which are a good source of energy.
- MCTs can reduce lactate build up in the body – Higher levels of lactate in the body can negatively impact athletic performance during exercises. Consumption of MCTs before exercising can help increase the fat-burning process during exercises.
- MCT Oil may help in the management of Alzheimer’s disease, autism, and epilepsy – The oil may help reduce the frequency of seizure in an epileptic person, prevent memory loss, and support healthy brain cells.
- MCTs have anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties – the coconut oil in MCTs helps fight yeast infections, prevent bacterial growth, and suppress the growth of fungus infections.
- MCT Oil may reduce the risk of heart diseases – Factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, inflammation, and body mass index lead to some heart conditions. MCT oil helps reduce cholesterol levels, manage high blood pressure, and promote weight loss.
Are there Any Key Difference Between MCT Oils and MCT Powder?
MCT Oil is derived from medium chain fatty acids of palm oil, coconut oil, or other dairy products. MCT oil is not ideal for use when you are cooking at temperatures above 350 degrees because of their low smoke point.
MCT Oil powder is extracted from MCT oil and has only been on the market for a few years. MCT powders are made up of approximately 50% to 80% MCT oil and the other percentage is carbohydrates and milk proteins. However, you should know that some MCT powders may contain artificial sweeteners and cheap fillers. Only buy the powders from trusted manufacturers.
With the rise of dietary supplements like MCT powders and MCT oils, you need to have a deep understanding of their differences so that you may know which one to purchase.
Convenience – MCT powder is considered to be more convenient of the two options. This is because the powder is lightweight and is available in single-serving sachets. MCT powders can also be mixed with a smoothie of your choice or used as salad dressing.
Digestive side effects – Some individuals may experience some digestive side effects, including diarrhea, stomach upset, or nausea after taking MCT oil. People with digestive issues may experience fewer problems when using MCT powders. You can choose the one that works best for you.
Texture – Texture comes into the picture depending on how either product is used. The oily texture of MCT oil is ideal for salad dressing, soups, and smoothies. However, MCT powder has a creamier texture and is best when added to liquids.
Nutritional supplement company Gundry MD launched an MCT supplement called MCT Wellness. Here, we’re going to look at this supplement and see if it holds up to the promises and claims it makes.
MCT Wellness
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Quick Facts & Specs
Gundry MD’s MCT Wellness is a dietary supplement that contains a unique blend of proprietary and high-quality ingredients that help people lose weight. The supplement helps boost ketone levels in the body which help promote weight loss. Apart from weight loss MCT wellness supports a healthy immune system, improves digestive health, boosts energy levels, balances hormones, and supports lungs and sinus health.
MCT Wellness contains natural ingredients and is free from additives and synthetic fillers, and is suitable for adults whose goal is to lose weight.
How it works: MCT Wellness works by combining polyphenols and C8 to boost ketone levels in the body which helps promote fat burning and weight loss. The supplement also contains bioflavonoids that help stimulate the synthesis of nitric oxide to allow quick flow of ketones in the body.
- Form:Powder
- Type:Supplement
- Benefit:MCT Wellness works by combining polyphenols and C8 to boost ketone levels in the body which helps promote fat burning and weight loss. The supplement also contains bioflavonoids that help stimulate the synthesis of nitric oxide to allow quick flow of ketones in the body.
- Return policy:The manufacturer offers a 90-day 100% money-back guarantee for this product.
- Brand:Gundry MD
- Price:A bottle of MCT Wellness costs $79.95*
- Active Ingredients:GoMCT C8, Malic Acid, MitoHeal, Citric Acid, Silica, Monk Fruit Extract and Red Grape Extract
MCT Wellness Pros & Cons
Pros
- Improves cognitive functions
- Promotes fat-burning and weight management
- Boosts energy levels
- Increase the body’s metabolism
Cons
- The product is occasionally out of stock
Ingredients
GoMCT C8 – goMCT stimulates the production of ketones in the body to help boost energy levels. According to the National Library of Medicine, C8, also known as caprylic acid, helps boost the body’s metabolism and increase energy levels.
Malic acid – The acid is used to promote energy production, boost sports performance, increase workout endurance, and reduce muscle fatigue. A study in the Hindawi journal reveals that malic acid has anti-inflammatory properties and cardioprotective effects in the body.
Red grape extract – Grape seed extract helps improve blood circulation, calm inflammations, support kidney functions, and regulate blood pressure. The Journal of Food Science and Technology reveals that grape seed extract has numerous benefits and helps fight some diseases including inflammation and cardiovascular diseases.
When you are deciding between MCT powder and MCT oil, consider the following;
- Do you want to taste your MCT? The oil can make you taste the coconut flavor, but the powder can be added to anything without altering the taste.
- The MCTs amount per serving on the oil or powder. MCT oils have higher concentrations compared to the powders.
- Can your system handle it? powders may be easier to digest compared to oils.
Which MCT Oil is Best?
When choosing an MCT oil for yourself, researchers suggest that you pick the organic one. The best MCT oils are free of harmful chemicals that may damage the body. A researcher by the name Young also suggests that you pick MCT oil that is in a PBA-free plastic bottle or glass container to ensure the oil is not contaminated. Here are some of the best MCT oils on the market that you should try;
Bulletproof Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil – Sourced from coconuts and not palm oil and help boost mental alertness and cognitive functions.
Natural Force Organic MCT Oil – Derived from 100% cold-pressed virgin coconut oil
Orgain Organic MCT Oil – Orderless, flavorless, and highly effective oil that contains high-quality triglycerides. Vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and soy-free.
Nature’s Way Organic MCT Oil – The product comes in BPA-free plastic container and is derived from organic coconuts.
Sports Research Premium MCT Oil – Easily absorbed into the body to boost brain and other body functions.
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MCT Oil Health Benefits for Weight Loss
A lot of research studies support the use of MCT oils in weight management. The reasons for this may vary according to different researchers. MCTs have positive effects on leptin receptors which help reduce food cravings by giving you a feeling of being fuller. This leads to an improvement in insulin response in the body and a reduction in calorie intake. MCTs are quickly converted into caloric energy and are not stored in the body as fats.
In a certain human trial, individuals were given meals containing either LCTs or MCTs. The results showed that postprandial thermogenesis was enhanced in both lean and obese individuals when LCTs are replaced with MCT meals.
MCTs help the body to produce ketones, which provide similar benefits to a ketogenic diet without having the need to cut on carbohydrates. MCTs are among the best fats that you can include in your diet as they are quickly used as energy and they also help promote weight loss.
Bottom line: MCTs provide virtually instant energy, are rarely stored as fat in the body, may contribute to thermogenesis, and keep you feeling fuller.
What is the Comparison for MCT Oil vs. Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil and medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oils are saturated fats that have gained popularity on the market for several years. The characteristics of the oils are almost similar, but they are made up of different compounds making them unique.
Coconut oil contains relatively small amounts of MCTs. MCT Oil C8 (caprylic acid) contains about 6% of coconut oil, while C10 (capric acid) contains about 9% of coconut oil. These two forms of MCTs are most popular because they are easily converted to caloric acid compared to other saturated fats in coconut oil. Well, coconut oil is a great choice, but if you want to reap more benefits, you should use MCT oil
MCTs derived from virgin coconut oil contains about 30% lauric acid, which acts as a slow-burning fuel source in the body. Lauric acid stimulates the production of monolaurin, a compound that supports a healthy immune system and promotes optimal gut functions.
MCT oils contain a concentrated source of MCTs derived from palm oil or coconut oil. MCT oil is 100% MCTs while coconut oil contains combinations of other saturated fats.
How are MCT Oil Reviews – How Do Users Comment About It?
MCT Oil reviews are available on many different online platforms, including online retailer platforms that sell the oil. On Bulletproof website, MCT oil has received a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Most customers love the oil and claim that it is among the best supplements on the market. Other users claim that the product helped boost their energy levels and increase their mental clarity. Some clients claim that even though the oil is expensive to purchase, it is worth every penny. On the same platform, one customer says “I’m just starting to use this product but am already seeing a slight difference in brain function; memory, word recall and energy!”
On Amazon, approximately 81% of the customers have given MCT oil a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. Customers claim that they love the product since it does not have a detectable flavor or taste, and it boosts physical and mental energy. Another review on Amazon claims that “The first day I took 1/4 tsp in my coffee before work and I immediately noticed the difference in my energy and focus. I felt great. Not any real stomach issues, just a noticeable boost in my metabolism that led to an extra bowel movement or two per day.”
On other online platforms, customers who have used this supplement claim that is among the healthiest and most beneficial saturated fats on the market today. they claim that the supplement helps boost energy levels, manage blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, support weight loss, improve brain and memory functions, and increase workout endurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: MCT oil has numerous potential health benefits, some of which are backed by scientific research while others are still undergoing research. MCT oil is good for;
- Brain and memory functions – the oil has the ability to improve recall and memory functions for people with Alzheimer’s disease
- Increased endurance and energy boost – MCT oil supporters claim that the oil helps increase workout endurance and boost energy levels for athletes
- Weight loss and weight management – MCT oil consumption helps increase fat-burning process and reduce calories. The oil also stimulates the production of the hormones that help suppress your appetite.
- Heart health – MCT oil promotes a healthy heart by lowering cholesterol levels in the body and regulating blood sugar levels.
A: There are many brands that manufacture MCT oils. Therefore, you may purchase the oil from the product’s official website it exists. You may also purchase MCT oil from authorized online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Walgreens. There are also online and physical stores across the world that sell MCT oils. You may make your purchase depending on your location across the globe at affordable prices
A: People may fast for different reasons. Fasting not only supports spiritual goals but also gives the digestive system some rest and promotes weight loss. To survive during the day while you are fasting, you need to have ways to reduce hunger and boost your energy levels. But does MCT Oil break a fast? Considering that you have to keep your mind clear and suppress your hunger.
In essence, consuming calories above zero while you are fasting counts as breaking a fast. Therefore, when you consume MCT oil, even though it has low calories, it counts as breaking a fast. Since MCT oil has a low calorie count and is easily absorbed by the body, you can still consume it while you fast. MCT oil benefits and effects cannot reverse the effects of your fasting. Count yourself lucky because MCT oil helps boost your energy levels during your fasting.
A: Basically, there are two ways that you can take MCT oil; you may take the medium-chain triglycerides as a dietary supplement or through the foods you eat. Your choice will depend on your preference. The supplements can be taken as an oil, or powder, or soft gel form. It can also be beneficial if you would add MCT oil to your everyday baking or cooking. For example, you may;
- Use it as a salad dressing
- Mix it in your coffee
- Blend it into other drinks or smoothies
- Add it on to cooked vegetables or other foods
- Cook with it every day
- Add it to your dessert or baked foods
A: Does timing make a difference when it comes to taking MCT oil? You can reap the potential benefits of MCT oil at any time of the day. However, you are allowed to strategize your timing depending on the goal you want to achieve. Some of the ideal times for you to take MCT oil are;
In the morning – The liver rapidly converts MCT oil into ketones once you consume it. ketones are energy bundles that your body cells can use as fuel. Ketones also enhance the fat-burning process and helps suppress hunger. Adding MCT oil to your tea or coffee in the morning also helps boost mental clarity and eliminate brain fog.
Pre-workout for instant energy – Since MCT oil is easily converted into ketones, the body can use that as fuel during your workout sessions. MCT oil does not cause a crash since it is not a stimulant and it will not destabilize your hormones. You should take MCT oil before going to the gym.
During your weight loss journey – MCT oil helps boost your body’s metabolism, suppress hunger, and increase fat-burning process to promote weight loss.
A: MCT oil is a dietary supplement derived from a saturated fat called medium-chain triglycerides. People usually take MCT oil to help with appetite control, cognitive functions, weight loss, problems taking in fat, inflammation, and energy for workout. MCT may also help with certain health conditions, but it is advisable that you talk to your doctor first before taking the oil. The doctor will help prescribe the right dose for you.
A: Yes, you can eat after taking MCT oil. Most research studies on MCT oil and weight loss recommend that MCT oil should be taken as part of a meal. However, other studies claim that taking MCT oil before a meal increases ketone levels compared to taking it with a meal. Basically, you can take MCT oil by itself or accompanied by a small snack at least one hour before having your meal. This will help rise ketone levels in the body that help suppress your appetite and make you eat less.
The amount of time that MCT oil rises blood ketones is vital if you consider the frequency of dosage. After taking MCT oil, the ketones rise for about four hours. Taking your MCT oil together with your breakfast helps reduce the amount of food you will eat throughout the day. If you never take breakfast, then you can take MCT oil before your main meal of the day.
A: In case you are wondering what is the best time to take MCT oil, then good news is that you have got options and you can take it according to your preference. You should take your MCT in the morning if you are looking to increase mental focus and clarity, and lose weight. MCT oil is converted into ketones in the liver to produce the energy that will fuel you up throughout the day. Add a serving of MCT oil to your coffee or tea in the morning to help boost your metabolism and increase your ability to concentrate at school or at work.
Taking MCT oil at night before going to bed is believed to help improve sleep quality and boost brain performance for the next day. MCT oil works well before bed by reducing insulin spikes in case you eat a lot of carbohydrates before bed. MCT oil balances out the effects of insulin by regulating your blood sugar levels.
However, some research studies claim that you should take MCT oil before 4 PM since it may cause sleep disruption. Taking MCT oil at day time help prevent eating too much at night. If you take supper past 7 pm, then you can take MCT oil one hour before you eat.
A: Yes, MCT oil supports a healthy heart by reducing the risk factors for heart disease. Some of the risk factors for heart disease include; body mass index, high cholesterol, inflammation, blood pressure, and smoking. MCT oil promotes weight loss which may help reduce the risk for heart diseases.
A research study was conducted on overweight men who were given MCT oil for 29 days. The results showed that their cholesterol levels reduced by 12.5%. MCT oil stimulates the production of heart protective cholesterol which in turn reduces the risk of heart diseases.
A: MCT oil is such a powerful oil as it helps support weight loss, improve memory and concentration, and it could not be easier to use. The oil is odorless and colorless and use can use it the way you use other oils in your diet. The amount of oil you should consume daily totally depends on how long you have been using it. Beginners should start with one teaspoonful per day, and once the body adjust you can scale up to one tablespoonful a day. Second time users can reap the benefits of MCT oil by using one tablespoonful a day. Excessive consumption of MCT oil can cause digestive distress. Therefore, you should stick to your dosage.
A: Most people prefer mixing MCT oil into their preferred beverages or foods. You may take MCT on its own but you should beware of its side effects. Consuming the oil on an empty stomach may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, bloating, vomiting, and cramping.
A: Adding MCT oil to your morning coffee allows you to enjoy many benefits. Researchers recommend that you start with one teaspoon of MCT oil in your coffee and see how much you can tolerate. If your tolerance is good enough, you can scale up to one tablespoon of MCT oil in coffee to enjoy a quick boost of your energy.
A: One bottle of MCT oil can last you a long time and it may go bad since you only use small amounts of it. Refrigerating your MCT oil is the best way to store it since it prevents the effects of sunlight and heat. Before you refrigerate it, ensure it is in an airtight container.
A: Individuals on a ketogenic diet are advised to take MCT oil one to three times per day to support ketosis. Higher doses of MCT oil helps stimulate ketosis and this encourages the body to burn excess fat and support weight loss
A: It is generally safe to take MCT oils. However, consuming large amounts of it may cause gas, stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, and cramps. Long-term negative side-effects of consuming MCT oil include;
- May cause weight gain because it has calories
- Your cholesterol levels may go up when you consume large amounts of saturated fats
- May lead to build up of fat in the liver
- May promote the production of hunger hormones and cause you to overeat.
A: Adding MCT oil to your diet helps lower bad cholesterol levels and increase good cholesterol in your body. However, you should not that MCT oil is saturated fats. Consuming large amounts of saturated fats can increase your cholesterol.
A: Most studies claim that MCT oil is safe for pregnant women. However, it is advisable for pregnant women to consult their healthcare providers before start to use MCT oil or supplements.
A: The market is full of MCT oils from different manufacturers. However, most brands claim that their MCT oil is vegan-friendly. You can do your research on the specific brand to find out if their oil is vegan before you purchase it.
Conclusion
Medium-chain triglycerides are a type of saturated fats found in palm kernel oil and coconut oil. MCTs have gained popularity over the years because of their numerous health benefits.
MCT oil helps promote weight loss, boost energy levels, support a healthy heart, increase mental focus and alertness, and manage Alzheimer’s disease. Although MCTs are easily absorbed by the liver, dietary guidelines recommend that you limit your intake of saturated fats.
Recent research studies have proven that saturated fatty acids offer numerous health benefits to the body. Nutritionists, fitness enthusiasts, and professional athletes are now embracing MCT Oils because of its high ability to burn fats.
10 sources
Health Insiders relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
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