MCT Oil Supplements

About MCT Oil Supplements

What is MCT Oil?

Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) are different in chemical structure to common saturated fatty acids found in animal products, such as beef and pork fats. As the old saying goes—oils ain’t oils. And though this was about engine oil, it certainly applies to the different types of saturated fats as well. MCT oil derived from coconuts or sustainable palm oil is less likely to be stored as fat than other types of saturated fats. Instead, it is preferntially burned off as fuel for the brain and metabolism.  

Are MCT Oil and Coconut Oil the Same?

MCT oil is often 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. The authors of this study also believed that replacing dietary long-chain triglycerides with MCT oil will facilitate weight loss. 

Is MCT Oil Saturated Fat?

There is often concern over the fact that MCTs are, by nature, saturated fats, and that this may 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". This may make MCTs excellent 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.