Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil is a supplement that has become popular among athletes and bodybuilders. It is typically made from coconuts, but can also be derived from palm kernel oil, whole milk, and butter. MCT oil is easily digestible and can be added to smoothies, salads, juices, or coffee. It is advisable not to take MCT oil too late in the day as it can disrupt sleep due to the energy it provides. When first using MCT oil, it is important to start with small amounts (a teaspoon or half a tablespoon) and gradually increase to a maximum of 4 to 7 tablespoons per day. MCT oil is said to help with weight loss, ketone production, energy levels, and even preventing the infamous Keto flu.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
What is MCT oil? | Medium-chain triglyceride oil, typically made from coconuts, but also from palm kernel oil, whole milk, and butter. |
How is it made? | Through a process called fractionation, which separates the MCT from the original oil and concentrates it. |
How is it used? | Can be added to smoothies, salads, juices, coffee, protein shakes, etc. |
When is it used? | Not too late in the day, as it can disrupt sleep. |
How often can it be used? | Start with a teaspoon or half a tablespoon and gradually increase to a maximum of 4-7 tablespoons per day. |
What are the benefits? | Supports the hormone balance, improves insulin sensitivity, helps with weight loss, ideal for a keto diet, has a positive effect on the brain, boosts the immune system, promotes the absorption of nutrients, promotes a healthy gut. |
What are the side effects? | High doses could lead to fat buildup in the liver and other side effects such as abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and bloating. |
What You'll Learn
MCT oil is a good source of energy
MCT oil is typically made from coconuts or palm kernel oil, and it is a popular supplement among athletes and bodybuilders. It is a good option for people who have trouble digesting other types of fats or who are looking for an energy boost. MCT oil can be easily added to food or drinks such as smoothies, salads, juices, or coffee. It is tasteless and has a low burning point, making it a convenient and versatile addition to your diet.
When first using MCT oil, it is important to start with small amounts, such as a teaspoon or half a tablespoon, to allow your body to adjust. You can gradually increase the amount up to a maximum of around four to seven tablespoons per day. It is best to spread out the intake throughout the day. Additionally, MCT oil is most effective when taken 30 minutes before a meal rather than with or after a meal.
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MCT oil can help with weight loss
MCT oil can also support weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity and stabilising blood glucose levels. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes, as it may help reduce body fat and improve insulin resistance. Furthermore, MCT oil is a good source of quick energy, which can be beneficial for athletes and bodybuilders. It can help maintain energy levels throughout training and provide a source of fuel without the crash associated with sugar.
It is important to note that while MCT oil can aid in weight loss, it should be used as a tool alongside a healthy lifestyle and diet. Additionally, it is recommended to start with small amounts of MCT oil and gradually increase the dosage to avoid potential digestive issues.
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MCT oil can help manage neurological conditions
MCT oil, or medium-chain triglyceride oil, is a processed oil containing shorter chains of fats than most other food sources of fat. These shorter fat chains are digested more quickly and can be used to manage neurological conditions.
Epilepsy Management
MCT oil may help reduce the frequency of seizures in people with epilepsy. This is because MCTs are metabolised quickly to form ketone bodies, which are a source of energy for the body and brain. MCT oil can produce ketones without the need for a high-fat, low-carb diet, which is often adopted by people with epilepsy to help reduce seizure frequency. A recent study found that patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who supplemented their diet with MCT oil for three months had 42% fewer seizures than they did at baseline.
Alzheimer's Prevention and Treatment
The metabolism of MCTs into ketone bodies may also support the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's is associated with insulin resistance in the brain, making it harder for the brain to use glucose for energy. Therefore, researchers believe ketone bodies may be a more effective energy source for the brain when cognitive decline starts to occur, which may help with cognitive outcomes. A review of 16 studies found that all participants taking MCTs experienced an increase in blood ketones, with some also reporting cognitive improvements.
Autism Management
A ketogenic diet with MCT oil has been shown to improve behaviour in autistic children. While there is limited evidence, one preliminary study found that a ketogenic and gluten-free diet with MCTs substantially lowered behaviours associated with autism in 6 out of 15 children involved in the study.
Parkinson's, Anxiety, Depression, and Stress
MCT oil has been shown to protect the brain against the symptoms of Parkinson's, anxiety, depression, and stress. It improves memory function and can reduce symptoms of these neurological conditions.
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MCT oil can help with digestive problems
Secondly, MCT oil can help to balance gut microbiota. It promotes the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which strengthens the intestinal barrier and prevents harmful microorganisms from invading the gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to improved digestive function and a reduced risk of medical complications such as colon cancer.
Thirdly, MCT oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can lower the risk of chronic diseases. It reduces the production of pro-inflammatory immune cells and increases the production of anti-inflammatory immune cells. This can help to protect gut health and reduce the risk of inflammatory bowel disease.
Finally, MCT oil can help to prevent digestive discomfort by improving the feeling of fullness after eating. This can reduce overall food intake and prevent overeating during meals, helping to maintain a healthy weight.
However, it is important to note that excessive use of MCT oil can lead to digestive problems. It is recommended to start with small amounts, such as a teaspoon or half a tablespoon, and gradually increase the amount as your body adjusts.
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MCT oil can help with diabetes
MCT oil, or medium-chain triglyceride oil, is a supplement that can be used to help manage diabetes. MCT oil is typically made from coconuts, but can also be derived from palm kernel oil, whole milk, and butter.
MCT oil is rapidly converted into energy by the body and has a range of benefits for people with diabetes. Firstly, it can help with weight loss, which is important for diabetics. MCT oil increases the production of hormones that make you feel full, like leptin and peptide YY, reducing the likelihood of overeating. It also increases energy expenditure by shifting the gut microbiome and burning more fat in the liver.
MCT oil also has a positive effect on brain function. It has been shown to improve memory function and reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Furthermore, it can protect the brain against the symptoms of Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and autism.
MCT oil can also help manage insulin levels and stabilise blood glucose. It is digested faster than other oils, making it a good option for people with digestive problems.
When taking MCT oil, it is important to start with small amounts (around a teaspoon per day) and gradually increase the dosage as you get used to it. The safe upper limit is around 4 to 7 tablespoons per day. It is also advisable not to take MCT oil too late in the day, as it can disrupt sleep due to the energy it provides.
MCT oil is a useful supplement for people with diabetes, but it should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you start with a teaspoon per day and work your way up. The safe upper limit for bowel tolerance is 4 to 7 tablespoons per day.
It is best to spread the intake of MCT oil throughout the day. It is also important to note that MCT oil is not a substitute for a varied diet.
It is not advisable to take MCT oil too late in the day as it may disrupt your sleep.
Yes, MCT oil can be taken every day.