Keto Mct Oil Powder: Easy Ways To Use It

MCT oil powder is a popular supplement for those on a keto diet. MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides, which are a type of fat found in foods like coconut oil, butter, and cheese. MCT oil powder is a convenient and mess-free alternative to MCT oil, as it can be easily mixed into beverages and recipes without clumping. It is also more portable and easier to digest. MCT oil powder is typically unflavoured and can be added to coffee, shakes, smoothies, or yogurt to enhance mental focus and energy levels. It can also be used in baking, replacing coconut oil in a 1:1 ratio. When adding MCT oil powder to coffee, it is recommended to use a shaker cup to combine the powder and coffee, as simply stirring may result in chunks.

How to mix keto MCT oil powder into your morning coffee

Keto MCT oil powder is a great way to add healthy fats to your morning coffee. Here are some simple steps to mix it into a delicious and creamy drink:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of freshly brewed hot coffee
• 1-2 tablespoons of grass-fed butter or ghee
• 1-2 teaspoons of MCT oil or MCT oil powder
• Optional: Unsweetened almond milk, heavy cream, or a sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract

Instructions:

• Brew your coffee: Start by brewing a cup of coffee using your preferred method. You can use a standard automatic coffee maker, French press, Aeropress, or Chemex.
• Add coffee to a blender: Pour the freshly brewed coffee into a blender. If you don't have a blender, you can use a large mug and a milk frother instead.
• Add MCT oil powder and butter: Put 1-2 tablespoons of grass-fed butter or ghee and 1-2 teaspoons of MCT oil or MCT oil powder into the blender with the coffee. If you're new to MCT oil, start with smaller amounts and gradually increase over time.
• Blend until frothy: Blend all the ingredients together for about 20-30 seconds, or until the mixture looks creamy and frothy, similar to a latte. If using a milk frother, make sure to leave room for expansion.
• Optional add-ins: If desired, you can add a splash of unsweetened almond milk, heavy cream, or a low-carb sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract instead. You can also experiment with other add-ins like cinnamon, collagen powder, or keto-friendly syrup.
• Serve and enjoy: Pour your keto coffee into a mug and enjoy!

Tips:

• Start with smaller amounts of MCT oil or MCT oil powder if you're new to it and gradually increase the amount over several days.
• If you don't have a blender, a milk frother or immersion blender can also be used to mix the ingredients until frothy.
• Keto coffee is very filling, so you may want to replace your breakfast with it or have it as a mid-morning snack.
• Be mindful of your total daily calorie intake, as keto coffee can be calorie-dense.

The benefits of using keto MCT oil powder

MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides, which are a type of dietary fat found in oils such as coconut and palm oil. MCT oil is a dietary supplement that has gained popularity alongside the high-fat, low-carb keto diet. It is typically made from coconut or palm kernel oil and contains a mixture of caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10).

Weight Loss and Metabolism

Some studies show that the body can metabolise MCT oil quickly, potentially boosting your metabolism in the process. One study showed that those who had two tablespoons of MCT oil in their breakfast ate less at lunchtime. MCT oil may also help you feel full, which can lead to reduced calorie intake throughout the day.

Cognitive Function

There is some small but promising data to suggest that MCT oil can help improve cognitive function, particularly for those with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. The effects of MCT oil on cognitive function currently only last for a few weeks, but it gives hope that it could be used to improve brain function.

Athletic Function

MCT oil can reduce lactate build-up, which can hinder an athlete's performance. It can also make exercise feel 'easier' by encouraging the body to burn fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.

Antibacterial and Antifungal

Some studies have shown that MCTs have antimicrobial and antifungal effects, including reducing the common yeast that can cause thrush and other skin infections.

Heart Health

By potentially aiding weight loss, MCTs may support heart health. MCT oil may also help the body to produce more HDL, known as the 'good' cholesterol. It may also lower C-reactive protein (CRP), which is known to increase the risk of heart disease.

Why MCT oil powder is better than coconut oil or butter

MCT oil powder is a great way to get the benefits of MCTs without the side effects that can sometimes come with MCT oil. Here are some reasons why MCT oil powder may be better than coconut oil or butter:

Easier to Digest

MCT oil powder is generally easier to digest than coconut oil or butter. The powder form of MCTs is more easily broken down and absorbed by the body, which means you're less likely to experience stomach pain, discomfort, or other gastrointestinal issues. This is especially true if you're following a keto diet, as MCTs are more ketogenic than the fatty acids found in coconut oil or butter.

More Convenient

MCT oil powder is also more convenient than coconut oil or butter. It's less messy, easier to transport, and can be added to drinks and recipes without making them greasy. MCT oil powder is also a great option for those who are always on the go, as it's easy to pack and doesn't require refrigeration.

Boosts Energy Levels

MCT oil powder can help improve energy levels throughout the day. The medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in the powder are quickly metabolized into energy, so you can feel more energized and focused. This can be especially beneficial if you're following a keto diet, as it can help reduce the adverse symptoms that sometimes occur when starting this type of diet.

May Aid Weight Loss

MCT oil powder may also aid in weight loss efforts. MCTs have been shown to boost metabolism and promote greater feelings of fullness compared to other types of fatty acids. Additionally, MCT oil powder can be used as a healthy substitute for other fats in baking or cooking, which can help reduce overall calorie intake.

Versatile

MCT oil powder is incredibly versatile and can be added to a variety of dishes and drinks. It can be used in coffee, tea, smoothies, baked goods, soups, sauces, and even desserts. This makes it easier to incorporate MCTs into your diet and reap their potential benefits.

Better for Baking

MCT oil powder is also a better option than coconut oil or butter for baking. It can act as a thickening agent and has a pleasant, creamy texture when added to liquids. MCT oil powder is also flavourless, so it won't affect the taste of your baked goods.

The science behind MCTs and how they work

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are a type of saturated fat primarily derived from coconut oil and palm kernel oil. They are also found in dairy products like butter and cheese to some extent. These fats are metabolized more quickly and efficiently in the body compared to long-chain fatty acids found in most dietary fats, providing a rapid source of energy.

MCTs are rapidly broken down and absorbed into the body, and are immediately transported from the small intestine to the liver. This makes them less likely to be stored as fat. In the liver, MCTs are either used as fuel or stored as body fat. Since they can enter the bloodstream without being broken down, they are a good source of instant energy.

MCTs can also be converted into ketones in the liver. Ketones can be used as an alternative energy source for the brain and muscles. They can cross the blood-brain barrier to provide fuel for the brain and support endurance and energy levels during physical activity. Research has shown that MCTs can improve cognitive function, including memory, focus, and mental clarity.

MCTs have also been found to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, particularly due to the presence of lauric acid. They can help balance gut flora, support digestive health, and combat pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

In terms of weight management, MCTs may increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation, leading to greater calorie burning. They can also impact appetite-regulating hormones, leading to feelings of fullness and reduced caloric intake, resulting in weight loss over time.

Additionally, MCTs may have positive effects on heart health. Some studies indicate that MCTs rich in coconut oil can raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels and improve the ratio of HDL to LDL (bad) cholesterol compared to some other plant oils, thereby reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors.

How to add MCT oil powder to your cooking

MCT oil powder is a flavourless and odourless powder that can be added to your cooking to give your body a quick energy boost. It is a type of fat found in certain oils (like coconut) and dairy products. Here are some ways to add MCT oil powder to your cooking:

Smoothies and Shakes

Add MCT oil powder to your morning smoothie or protein shake. It is flavourless and will be virtually undetectable.

Coffee

You can add MCT oil powder to your morning coffee. Try adding a teaspoon of steamed or regular whole milk, or add cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice or vanilla extract.

Salad Dressings, Sauces and Dips

You can add MCT oil powder to homemade salad dressings, sauces and dips. Try adding it to olive oil, garlic powder, lemon juice, basil, salt and pepper for a terrific dressing. You can also mix the powder directly into hummus, pesto and guacamole.

Yoghurt, Pudding and Nut Butter

MCT oil powder blends beautifully with creamy textures. Try adding it to whole-milk Greek yoghurt with chia seeds, almonds, almond extract, a bit of turmeric and cinnamon.

Baking

You can substitute MCT oil for conventional oils in your baking. You can also use it alongside regular coconut oil and/or butter (half and half). You can substitute about 1/4 to 1/3 of the coconut oil for MCT oil.

Roasted Vegetables

You can roast your vegetables at 350°F or lower with lots of MCT oil, or use a little avocado oil to roast them at a higher temperature, and drizzle MCT oil on them before serving.

Sautéing Veggies or Protein

MCT oil is great for sautéing your vegetables, tempeh, or steak. Keep the heat at medium or lower to see all of the benefits.

Oatmeal

Adding a little MCT oil to your morning oatmeal can help your body process those carbohydrates more slowly so you get energy and a fiber-rich meal.

Frequently asked questions