MCT oil has been growing in popularity in recent history, initially among athletes, bodybuilders and health-crazed individuals. As time has gone on, more and more people are jumping on the MCT oil bandwagon, and there is good reason, and evidence as to why.
One of the primary drivers of MCT oil’s popularity has been the surge of people using alternative oils, like coconut oil. Coconut oil is high in MCTs, and this has led to plenty of people doing their research. To save you some time, we have done that research for you. If you’re keen to learn what MCT oil is and why you should use it, hear it here first.
What is MCT Oil?
In very technical terms, MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides, and in MCT oil, you will find an abundance of these medium-chain triglycerides, predominantly, fatty ones. When it comes to the science of MCT there are four different kinds:
- Caproic Acid or C6
- Caprylic Acid of C8
- Capric Acid or C10 and
- Lauric Acid or C12
For the MCT oils at coles or the MCT oil at Woolworths, you will find a much higher concentration of caprylic and capric acid over the other two kinds of acids. All of this is to say that because they are shorter in length than longer fatty acids, they are more easily digestible and better for you.
What is MCT oil made of?
MCT oil is a more concentrated source of MCTs, and they are commonly found in a lot of different foods. The most common source and the primary way of making MCT oil is with coconut oil. MCTs are also often found in foods like milk, cheese or even yogurt. MCT oil is most commonly made by refining a raw product, in most instances coconuts, to remove the unwanted compounds and create that concentrated source of MCT which help in a number of different ways. This concentration means the MCT oil is 100% made of MCTs versus a little over half for other oils in the market. This concentration is what makes MCT oil so popular among consumers.
Why you should use MCT oil
MCT oils have the potential to help you in many ways, and for those looking for a simple way to promote better health, MCT oil could be it. MCT oil has the potential to help in losing weight. Some studies have shown that MCT oil helps the body release hormones which tell you your full, meaning you’re less likely to overeat. MCT oil may also help gut health which will in turn improve the absorption of vitamins and minerals, as well as support the growth of good bacteria.
MCT oil is also a great source of energy, especially for athletes looking to use fat stores as energy sources. For athletes, MCT oil may also help avoid the buildup of lactic acid, making exercise easier and the body less sore. These are huge benefits to any athletes out there who need a boost to keep training harder and for longer.
Lastly, studies have shown that MCT oil may help reduce fat storage and actually increase fat burning. This could be particularly helpful for those with diabetes. MCT oil may also help with insulin resistance, meaning less sugar is required to balance blood sugar levels. These are very important benefits that MCT oil can help deliver to those who may need it.
How to use MCT oil?
MCT oil isn’t like most other oils due to its concentrated nature. Unlike other oils, using MCT oil to cook isn’t the best or most efficient way to use MCT oil. Most people choose to take MCT oil in more direct ways, with many opting to add it to a morning coffee. Due to its low smoke point, MCT oil isn’t effective when heat is involved, non cooking methods are the best way to use MCT oil.
Try using MCT oil as a salad dressing, adding it to a smoothie or even taking it on its own in the morning. It may not taste the best, but a couple of tablespoons each morning will help your body in so many ways. There are fantastic recipes out there for MCT oil as a kickstarter for your metabolism in the morning. Having MCT oil in your morning coffee with other healthy fats is the perfect way to start the day, and encourage your body to use fat stores for energy, lowering any need for excess carbohydrates.
MCT oil is a fascinating health product, and the science behind it can be so beneficial for your health. This fatty acid concentrate is more easily digestible, can help you lose weight, avoid lactic acid build-up and may potentially help with balancing blood sugar levels. These, amongst other incredible benefits, are what make MCT oil so sought after by not only athletes but general consumers as well. Add a tablespoon or two to your coffee each morning and watch as your body kicks into gear.
Will you try an MCT oil at the start of the day? Be sure to leave a comment if you have a brand you love or a special way of using it. You can also check out our food reviews and lifestyle trends that we cover on the Physical Solutions blog.
