If you’re looking for an instant energy source in the form of ketones, MCT oil is a great option for you!
MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides, which are a form of saturated fatty acids that contain 6-10 carbon atoms, quickly metabolized into energy from the liver.
MCT oil are oils that contain extracted MCTs from whole foods, specifically from coconut and palm oil. MCT oil is not to be confused with coconut oil, which is only 55% MCTs, while MCT oil being 100% MCT.
Why MCT Oil Is The Best Energy Source
MCT oil make ketones readily available in your body, so you will constantly feel energized and makes ketosis easier to achieve and maintain.
Usually, MCT oil consists of caprylic acid and capric acid, which are swiftly absorbed and metabolized in the body, making it the perfect source of fuel.
Being an efficient source of fuel helps you reach your weight goals faster. This is because MCT oils are rapidly used as energy, and less likely to be stored as fat.
Also, MCTs have a thermogenic effect, which is the burning of calories to create heat.
Here’s Why MCTs Are Burned As Fuel So Effectively:
- MCTs reach your liver quickly
- MCTs don’t have to be broken down
- MCTs cross the double membrane of the mitochondria (energy factory of the cell) quickly
- MCTs don’t require enzymes to be converted into energy
Characteristics Of MCT Oil
Most MCT Oil Is Divided Into:
- 50-80% caprylic acid (C8)
- 20-50% capric acid (C10)
These Are The Distinct Features Of High-Quality MCT Oil:
- Tasteless
- Liquid at room temperature
- Highly absorbable (avoid those blended with lauric acid!)
- Highly soluble
Benefits Of MCT Oil
The benefits of MCT oils are not limited to quick energy absorption and aiding weight loss. Here’s a few more that will get you interested:
- Keeps your gut healthy
MCTs are natural antibiotics that can kill harmful bacteria that can be found in your guts
- Improve cognitive health
Ketones can pass through the blood-brain barrier and serve as fuel for the central nervous system
- Improve heart health
MCTs may help in the prevention of heart disease by reducing harmful (LDL) cholesterol and keeping blood triglycerides stable
- Prevents diabetes risk
Studies show MCT consumption improves insulin sensitivity, which is a key factor in preventing and managing diabetes.
- Increases exercise performance
This comes to no surprise as MCTs have high energy densities and are rapidly absorbed by the body.
Using MCT Oil
Now that I’ve captured your attention of the benefits MCTs provide, you’ll need to know how to use it.
Start with small amounts of MCT oil. Begin with one teaspoon, slowly increasing your intake as your body accustoms itself to the MCTs.
There are no known adverse effects of MCT oil consumption, and as far as studies show, there are no lethal limits. However, some people have experienced diarrhea which is why it is important to start with small doses.
Supplementing With MCT Oil
The benefit to being tasteless and soluble is that MCT oil can be added to your regular meals and drinks. These include:
- Coffee and other warm drinks
- Smoothies
- Pre-workout and post-workout shakes
Cooking With MCT Oil
You can add MCT oil to your meals, but keep it mind that temperatures above 150°C will break down the oil.
You can add MCT oil to dips, use it in salads, and replace it with olive oil when making pesto.
MCT As Powder
If you’re not a fan of oil, MCT comes in the form of powder too! They are easier on the digestive system, release ketones more efficiently, and can be easily packed when you’re on the go!
You can find much more information on living a holistic lifestyle in these free magazines and on our YouTube channel.
Check out this guide by PerfectKeto to learn more about using MCT oil right.
