What is MCT oil? Read here for a deeper dive...

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are a unique type of fat that stand out for their rapid conversion into energy and potential health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the science and benefits of MCT oil and how to incorporate this supplement into your daily routine.

If you're looking to buy our organic MCT oil click here. Or if you're looking for organic MCT oil powder it's here.

What are Medium Chain Triglycerides? 

Fats are essential for health. They’re a major source of energy, support brain and heart function, and make up important biological compounds. Some fats are naturally made by the body, while others, known as essential fats, must come from your diet. 

Health experts typically advise limiting saturated fats because their chemical structure can make them difficult for the body to break down. Unlike unsaturated fats, which are more easily used for energy or important biological functions, saturated fats are more likely to be stored in fat cells. Additionally, consuming too much saturated fat has been associated with higher levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), commonly referred to as "bad" cholesterol, and an increased risk of heart disease.

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), however, are an exception. These are saturated fats but have shorter fatty acid chains, containing just 6 to 12 carbon atoms, compared to the more common longer chains in LCTs (long-chain triglycerides). This shorter structure allows MCTs to be absorbed directly into the liver via the bloodstream, where they’re quickly converted into energy. 

Research suggests that MCTs have little impact on cholesterol levels compared to LCTs and may even help lower LDL cholesterol. However, the evidence for this claim is mixed.

MCTs appear in several foods, including coconut oil, dairy products (like butter and milk), dark chocolate, nuts, and seeds. However, MCT oil is a more concentrated and efficient source of MCTs that can be easily added to the diet as a supplement. 

Commercial MCT products typically contain a mixture of MCTs, but the most common are caprylic acid, which contains eight carbon atoms, and decanoic acid, which contains ten. 

History of MCT Oil 

In the 1950s, a research team at Drew Chemical extracted different MCTs as by-products of coconut oil. They showed that, despite having twice the energy amount as lard, MCTs didn’t cause weight gain, and they were noted as “fatless fats.”

These findings sparked further research into MCTs. Early studies initially focused on their ability to help people with lipid absorption issues, and later, researchers began investigating their potential to aid weight loss, boost energy, and help treat disease. 

In the 1970s, the Atkins diet, consisting of low-carb, high-protein, and fat meals, became popular. This boosted interest in MCT products, such as MCT oil, with growing interest in the health benefits of getting energy from fats rather than glucose. 

Health Benefits of MCT Oil

Quick Source of Energy 

MCT oil is absorbed quickly by the body and converted into energy, making it an efficient fuel source for those looking for a fast energy boost. People report the oil improves endurance, making it popular as a pre-workout supplement.

A study on mice found that an MCT-rich diet improved their exercise performance in swimming tests. However, in a clinical review of human studies, the authors concluded that there is inconclusive evidence to support the athletic benefits of MCT oil.

Supports Ketosis

MCT oil is commonly used in ketogenic diets, which force the body to produce energy from fat stores rather than carbohydrates. When fats are burned into energy, they produce ketones. These acids are the by-product of fat breakdown and are used to create energy by tissues that can’t use fat, such as the brain. 

 Ketogenic diets are often used for weight loss and achieving a leaner physique. These diets may also enhance energy levels, improve mental clarity, and offer various other health benefits.

Weight Management

Some studies suggest that MCT oil may help with weight loss by promoting feelings of 

fullness. This may be because ketones produced from MCT oil can suppress ghrelin, a hormone responsible for feelings of hunger. Moreover, evidence suggests MCT oil can help increase lipolysis (fat breakdown) in the liver and, therefore, decrease body fat. 

A study found that incorporating MCT oil in a weight-loss program led to greater reductions in body weight compared to olive oil for overweight participants. 

Improved Brain Function

MCT oil helps support brain function by offering an alternative energy source that the body can quickly use. This is especially important for conditions like Alzheimer’s, where the brain’s ability to metabolize glucose is impaired. 

In a placebo-controlled study, Alzheimer’s patients consumed about 1.8 tablespoons of MCT oil daily for six months. By the end of the study, their cognitive symptoms, assessed using various tests, either improved or remained stable. Patients who continued taking MCT oil beyond six months showed even better cognitive outcomes.

MCT oil is commonly added to coffee to enhance mental function. This provides a fast energy source for the brain and helps slow down caffeine absorption, offering a more steady and lasting energy boost.

Decreased Inflammation

Ketones can reduce inflammation in several ways. They interact with cellular pathways that trigger inflammation. They also lower the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), molecules produced during normal metabolism that can increase inflammation.

By producing ketones, MCT oil might help reduce the risk or decrease symptoms of diseases associated with overinflammation, such as allergies and cardiovascular disorders. However, most studies investigating MCT oil and inflammation have been done on isolated cells, so more human evidence is needed to support this claim. 

Could Help Reduce Risk of Diabetes 

Studies suggest that MCT oil might improve sensitivity to insulin, a hormone that helps break down glucose. Diabetes occurs when the body doesn't respond well to insulin, causing excess glucose in the bloodstream. One study found that a diet high in MCT oil increased insulin sensitivity, although the results were not statistically significant for most groups in the study.

Excess glucose can lead to inflammation, which contributes to health problems linked to diabetes, such as heart disease and eye issues. MCT oil's anti-inflammatory effects could help reduce these risks. However, people with type 1 diabetes are advised to avoid MCT oil, as it can increase the risk of ketoacidosis, a dangerous condition caused by high ketone levels in the body.

How is MCT Oil Made? 

MCT oil is made by extracting MCTs from coconut or palm kernel oil. This process typically involves heating the oil and isolating the MCTs in a process called fractionation. This is when components of a product are separated based on their boiling points. 

At NutriCraft, our organic MCT oil is made in collaboration with our partners in Sri Lanka. We use organic virgin coconut oil as our only base ingredient, which is far more sustainable than palm kernel oil. For our fractionation, we use a gentle, low-heat crystallisation process. This avoids high temperatures, unlike common distillation practices, minimising any alterations in the oil's nutritional profile. 

Risks of MCT Oil

MCT oil can have side effects, especially when used in high quantities. These can include gastrointestinal issues, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, and gas. People can also be allergic to MCT oil and may experience rashes, hives, itching, and wheezing. For this reason, it’s always recommended to start with a small dose. 

Safety data on MCT oil is limited. However, long-term regular use could lead to a build-up of fat in the liver, potentially leading to health complications like liver scarring. 

If you plan to use MCT oil regularly, we recommend consulting a health professional to understand the risks involved. You should also chat with a healthcare provider if you’re taking other medicines, as, though there are no characterized drug interactions, it’s possible MCT oil could interact with prescription and over-the-counter drugs. 

How to Use MCT Oil 

At NutriCraft, we supply MCT oil as an oil and a powder, so you can easily incorporate these healthy fats into your diet in several different ways. Here’s some ideas of how you can use them:

• Bulletproof coffee: Mix NutriCraft MCT oil or powder into your morning coffee for a sustained energy boost. This will also give the coffee a nice creamy, silky texture. 

• Smoothies: Add the powder or oil to protein shakes or smoothies for a pre-workout or morning energy kick.

• Baking: Our MCT oil powder can easily be added to dry ingredients when baking, adding healthy fats to cakes, cookies, and bread.  

• Salad dressing: For salads or dishes, drizzle the oil form as a finishing touch.
  
  

Key Takeaways

Key Takeaways

• Quick Energy Source: MCT oil is rapidly absorbed by the liver and converted into ketones, providing a fast and efficient energy boost.

• Supports Weight Management: MCT oil may help promote fat breakdown and reduce hunger, making it a helpful tool in weight loss and appetite control.

• Enhances Brain Function: MCT oil provides a quick energy source for the brain, potentially improving cognitive function.

• NutriCraft’s High-Quality MCT Products: Nutricraft uses organic virgin coconut oil and a gentle, low-heat process to ensure the highest quality MCT oil and powder, preserving their nutritional benefits while prioritizing sustainability.

Experience the health benefits of MCT oil with our premium yet affordable NutriCraft range.