Mct Oil And Keto: Are They Interdependent?

Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil is a supplement that has become popular among athletes and bodybuilders. It is derived from coconut or palm kernel oil and is known for its ability to provide a quick energy boost. MCT oil is easily absorbed and transported throughout the body, making it a good source of instant energy. It can also be converted into ketones, which are an alternative source of energy for the body and brain when carbohydrate intake is low. This has led to its popularity among those following a ketogenic diet, as it can help them stay in the fat-burning state known as ketosis. However, MCT oil is not essential for the keto diet, and there are other ways to incorporate it into your routine even if you are not following a keto diet.

MCT oil can be used to manage epilepsy, Alzheimer's and autism

Managing Epilepsy

MCT oil and a ketogenic diet may help manage epilepsy. MCTs can be converted into ketones, which may be beneficial in managing epilepsy. A small study found that adults with epilepsy who did not respond well to medication had 42% fewer seizures when supplementing with MCT oil for three months.

Managing Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's disease impairs the brain's ability to use sugar. A ketogenic diet offers an alternative energy source: ketones. This provides fuel for the brain and could allow brain cells to survive better. MCT oil is a nutritional source of ketones. A study found that 80% of participants had stabilisation or improvement in cognition, and better response with nine months of continual MCT oil.

Managing Autism

There is limited evidence suggesting that MCT oil may help children manage autistic characteristics. A preliminary study found that a ketogenic and gluten-free diet with MCTs substantially lowered behaviours associated with autism. This change was seen in six out of 15 children involved in the study.

MCT oil can help reduce candida yeast infections

MCT oil is a supplement that has become popular among athletes and bodybuilders. It is sourced from coconut oil or palm kernel oil and has various health benefits. MCTs have antimicrobial and antifungal effects and can help manage candida yeast infections.

MCT oil has been shown to be effective in treating candida yeast infections in both adults and infants. In adults, MCT oil can help reduce candida overgrowth by increasing the production of certain hormones that help people feel full, such as leptin and peptide YY. Additionally, MCT oil can increase energy expenditure, which may be mediated by shifts in the gut microbiome.

In infants, MCT oil has been found to reduce candida gastrointestinal colonization. A study on preterm infants showed that supplementing their formula with MCT oil reduced the fungus that can cause infections. This is especially important as candida infections are a common cause of infections in premature infants and can lead to severe mucocutaneous disease.

MCT oil is a safe and effective way to treat candida yeast infections, but it is important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to avoid any digestive distress. Additionally, it is recommended to look for MCT oils made with caprylic acid (C8) or capric acid (C10) as these have the most ketogenic properties and are the most studied for their benefits.

MCT oil can help with weight loss

MCT oil, or medium-chain triglyceride oil, is a supplement that has been shown to aid weight loss. MCT oil is derived from coconut or palm kernel oil and is popular among athletes and bodybuilders. While more research is needed to confirm its effects, MCT oil has been linked to several benefits that can promote weight loss.

Firstly, MCT oil has about 10% fewer calories than long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) found in foods like olive oil, nuts, and avocados. An analysis of 29 studies found that people consuming MCTs had a moderately lower calorie intake compared to those consuming LCTs. This could be because MCT oil helps people feel fuller for longer, reducing their overall calorie intake.

Secondly, MCT oil is easily absorbed and transported throughout the body, making it a quick source of energy. The body can also convert MCTs into ketones, which provide a fat-based source of energy when carbohydrate intake is low. This can be especially beneficial for those following a ketogenic diet, helping them stay in the fat-burning state known as ketosis.

Thirdly, MCT oil may help increase fat burning during exercise. While the results of studies are mixed, some research suggests that athletes who consume MCTs before exercise use more fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.

Lastly, MCT oil may support weight loss by helping to reduce body weight and waist circumference. A review of 13 randomized controlled trials found that MCTs supported modest weight loss, fat loss, and reduced body size. However, it's important to note that these studies had limitations and more high-quality research is needed to confirm these findings.

In conclusion, while MCT oil may help with weight loss, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet and in combination with other weight loss strategies.

MCT oil can be used as an instant energy source

MCT stands for medium-chain triglyceride oil. It is typically made from coconuts, but can also be derived from palm kernel oil, whole milk, and butter. MCTs have a unique ability to travel to the liver and boost ketone production.

MCT molecules are smaller than those in most of the fats you eat, which are long-chain triglycerides (LCT). This makes them easier to digest. You can absorb MCT in your bloodstream quickly, turning it into energy you can use.

MCTs are absorbed and digested by the body much faster than long-chain fatty acids (LCTs), the type found in most of the fats you eat. LCTs are the usual dietary fat, being bulky and taking time to be properly broken down by the body to be used as a source of energy.

MCTs have a shorter chain of carbon atoms, so they digest a lot quicker and can be absorbed into your bloodstream more promptly, then turned into energy you can use. When MCTs are consumed, they go directly to the liver to be rapidly digested or turned into ketones, which the body can use in place of carbohydrates as an energy source.

MCT oil is a highly concentrated source of MCTs, that is man-made through a process called fractionation, which involves extracting and isolating the MCTs from coconut or palm kernel oil.

MCT oil can be used as an instant source of energy or can be converted into ketones. Many people report feeling more energised after their MCT oil consumption.

MCT oil can be added to many foods and drinks. Most commonly, you’ll find it in coffee, smoothies, pre and post-workout shakes, salad dressings and sauces.

MCT oil can help manage blood sugar levels

A 2007 study found that those who consumed MCT oil daily saw reductions in body weight, waist circumference, and insulin resistance, compared to those taking corn oil containing LCTs. Another study indicated that those who consume MCT oils regularly had an overall reduced body weight, waist circumference, and a better lipid profile.

A review of 18 studies found that eating a meal containing coconut oil may promote a small improvement in after-meal blood sugar control. However, long-term use of coconut oil had the opposite effect, increasing insulin resistance.

A randomized controlled trial followed people with metabolic syndrome after 4 weeks of daily coconut oil consumption. Participants had significantly lower fasting blood sugar and triglycerides, and higher “good” HDL cholesterol. But they also had higher “bad” LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol.

While MCTs may be beneficial for blood sugar under some circumstances, more evidence is needed to draw strong conclusions.

Frequently asked questions