MCT Oil Supplements

About MCT Oil Supplements

Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) are different in chemical composition to common saturated fatty acids found in animal products, such as beef and pork. As the saying goes—oils ain’t oils. MCT oil derived from coconuts or sustainable palm oil is less likely to be stored as bodyfat than other types of saturated fats. Instead, it is preferentially burned as fuel for the brain and metabolism.  

Are MCT Oil and Coconut Oil the Same?

MCT oil can be extracted from coconuts, though it may be taken from palm kernels. Medium chain triglycerides are quickly oxidised in the liver, leading to greater energy expenditure and more satiety (food satisfaction) than other forms of dietary fat. These findings were published in the Journal of Nutrition in 2002, where the authors concluded that replacing dietary long-chain triglycerides with MCT oil facilitates weight loss. 

Is MCT Oil Saturated Fat?

There is often concern that because MCTs are saturated fats, they will increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, scientists are showing that the chain length of the saturated fat is important in determining its metabolism and metabolic effects. Chain length simply refers to the length of the fat molecule when examined under a microscope. 

Research undertaken by Marie-Pierre St Onge et al published in the Journal for the American College of Nutrition in 2008 assessed the basic parameters of blood pressure, total cholesterol and fasting glucose concentrations over 16 weeks and found no adverse affects on these metabolic risk factors with MCT Oil supplementation. This is an important study, as it dispels some of the medically-conceived notions of how saturated fats affect our health. 

MCT Oils are often used during ketogenic programs, as they are believed to be an excellent "brain fuel". Given this, MCTs may be valid replacements for typical supplemental fuel sources, such as sugar and starches. 

Can MCT oil be Heated?

Yes, MCT oil is a heat-stable saturated fat that it is stable to oxidation and rancidity. This is due to the fact that the lipid molecule does not contain any double bonds in the molecular structure. It also has a high smoke point due to its high level of purity. MCT oils are often added to morning coffee to kick start the metabolism. 

Can MCT Oil Cause Weight Gain? 

Any energy or calorie source, when over consumed, can contribute to weight gain. However, some calories are less likely to cause weight gain than others. To clarify, we can take the example of a person who has an energy balance, where energy intake matches energy expenditure. If they were to replace some high GI starches with the same amount of calorie from MCTs and protein, theoretically, they would start to lose weight in the form of body fat. 

Is MCT Oil Vegan?

Most MCT oils are derived from coconut oil or palm oil, which makes them vegan friendly. However, it is best to check the ingredients of each product to ensure there are no animal by-products or additives.