MCT Coconut Oil

What is MCT?

MCT Oil is a supplement made from a type of fat called medium-chain triglycerides. MCT molecules are smaller than those in most of the fats you eat. You can absorb MCT in your bloodstream quickly, and it turns it into the energy you can use.

Where does it come from?

We typically derive MCT Oil from coconut or palm kernel oil. We got it from coconut or palm kernel oil via a process known as fractionation. This separates and concentrates the MCT from the original oil.

What is it used for?

People use MCT to help with

Fat or nutrient uptake issues
Weight loss
Appetite control
Extra energy for exercise
Inflammation

How does it work?

If you replace LCT with MCT, you may store less fat and feel fuller for longer. Hence, you may consume fewer calories. If you are elderly and weak, MCT Oil may help you gain strength. It can also assist your body in producing ketones, a carb-free energy source for your brain.

Preterm infants can benefit from adding MCT Oil to their infant formula. It can reduce the growth of a fungus called candida, which can cause infection. MCT contains lauric acid, which acts as an antimicrobial, breaking down bacteria and virus walls, which helps in treating and soothing skin infections.

MCT and the ketogenic diet:

MCT helps you make more ketones than LCT, lowering your insulin levels and helping you burn fat. You may find it easier to stay on a low-carb diet that uses MCT because you can eat more fruits and vegetables.

How would MCT help?

MCT may help with some conditions.

Digestive problems:

If you have trouble digesting other types of fat or getting the nutrients you require, your doctor may have advised you to take more MCT. This can happen if you take certain medications or have

Problems with the pancreas.
Had part of your stomach removed.
Small bowel resection.
Small bowel disease.
Short bowel syndrome

Seizures:

A high-fat, ketogenic diet eases seizures. It can help some children with epilepsy who don’t react to drug treatment as they would with a traditional diet to a high amount of fat.

Diabetes:

If you have type 1 diabetes, fatty acids derived from MCT may help you when your blood sugar is extremely low (hypoglycemia). It may reduce body fat and improve insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes.

Autism:

A study found that adding MCT to a ketogenic, gluten-free diet improved symptoms in children with autism.

Neurological disorders:

MCT Oil may help with cognitive, memory, and judgment issues. Your brain may not use glucose well if you have alzheimer’s disease. Some experts believe that using ketones as an energy source instead may help your brain work more efficiently.

Heart disease:

A keto diet with MCT Oil can help you lose extra weight, which can reduce your risk of heart disease. It can also help lower LDL, the “bad” cholesterol, while also increasing your HDL, the “good” cholesterol.

How to use it?

Mix it into your coffee.

Make a smoothie with it.

Salad dressing.

It’s not a good idea to fry with most MCT Oil, as it has a low burning point.

The amount you should take is determined by how well you tolerate it and the benefit you seek. The maximum amount you should consume in a day is 4 to 7 tablespoons. Ideally, ‌spread those tablespoons out over the course of the day. Prior to that, consult a dietitian to determine the best dose for you.