Medium-chain triglyceride oil (MCT oil) is a kind Dietary supplement rich in medium-chain triglycerides. This is a type of fat that is considered healthier than other types of fat because of its shorter length. Triglycerides are the main components of body fat in humans and other animals, as well as plant fat. They are also present in the bloodstream to facilitate the reverse transfer of fat and blood sugar from the liver.
What is MCT oil?
Medium-chain triglycerides are so called because they contain between 6 and 12 carbon atoms, which is considered the “average” length for a fatty acid The four types of MCTs are:
- caproic acid,
- caprylic acid,
- capric acid,
- and lauric acid
MCT oil is usually made through a process called fractionation, where the MCTs are extracted and isolated from coconut or palm oil. MCT oils are beneficial because they are quickly absorbed and metabolized in the liver, resulting in fast and sustained energy supply For this reason, MCT oil is very popular among athletes.
The human body can convert MCTs into ketones, which are a fat-based energy source for the bodywhen carbohydrate intake is low. Some of the health benefits of MCT oil below are due to this metabolic mechanism. In addition, MCT oil is very popular in ketogenic dietsbecause they can be converted into ketones, which provide an alternative energy source for the brain.
It is also often used in high-quality food supplements as a carrier substance for fat-soluble molecules. This is the case, for example, with our vitamin D3/K2 the case.
What does MCT oil contain?
MCT oil is found primarily in coconut oil and palm kernel oil, with smaller amounts also found in butter and other high-fat dairy products from cows and goats. To produce MCT oil as a dietary supplement, these sources are processed to concentrate the MCTs.
Coconut oil is one of the richest natural sources of MCTs, as about 54% of the fat is made up of MCTs. However, it is worth noting that most MCTs in coconut oil come from lauric acid (C12), which some claim is not a "true" MCT because the body metabolizes it more like a long-chain fatty acid.
Pure MCT oil itself does not occur naturally, but is manufactured to provide a concentrated source of these medium-chain triglycerides. MCT oil is not only used as a dietary supplement, but also often used in salad dressings, smoothies or coffee as a source healthy fats used. It is also used in certain medical conditions that require highly absorbable and metabolizable forms of fat, such as malabsorption syndromes.
What benefits does MCT oil offer the human body?
reduction of calorie intake
A 2021 meta-analysis examined how the consumption of MCTs compared to the consumption of long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) on energy intake, appetite perception and appetite-related hormones. The analysis of 17 studies with 291 participants found that both short- and long-term consumption of MCT compared to LCT under laboratory conditions resulted in moderate decrease in energy intake. This reduction was statistically significant. However, there was no significant evidence that MCTs affected subjective ratings of appetite or appetite-related circulating hormones. Although MCTs lead to lower energy intake, the mechanism behind this effect is not clear and further research is needed.
epilepsy
It has been shown that fasting-induced ketone production can reduce the frequency of epileptic seizures. Because MCTs are converted into ketones, they may be valuable in the treatment of epilepsy. In fact,
A study showed that MCTs, which are also provide auxiliary energy for the brain, in rodent models, dogs and humans with epilepsy. can reduce the frequency of seizures. MCTs, which contain octanoic and decanoic acid in particular, are well tolerated by 65% of people and show promising results as Complement to the standard pharmacological treatment of epilepsy. Central nervous system side effects, common with current antiepileptic drugs, were not seen with MCT oil. The study concludes by calling for larger clinical trials to determine the ideal composition and dosage of MCTs and the types of epilepsy that respond best to them.
Alzheimer
A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study investigated the effects of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) on cognitive abilities in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study included 53 patients who received MCT or a placebo (canola oil) for 30 days, followed by the other treatment.
The results showed a significant reduction in ADAS-Cog-C scores (parameters used to measure cognitive abilities) in patients taking MCT compared to placebo. This suggests that MCT had a positive effect on the cognitive abilities of these patients. However, no significant differences were found in ADL scores, which measure self-care skills.
MCT Oil & Longevity
There are some studies that suggest that MCT oil may have positive effects on longevity. Some of these benefits could include:
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Weight loss and weight management: MCT oil can increase satiety and boost metabolism, which may aid weight loss. Maintaining a healthy weight is an important factor in longevity.
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heart health: MCT oil may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol and reducing inflammation.
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Energy and endurance: Because MCT oil is quickly converted into energy by the body, it can improve physical performance and endurance.
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Brain health: MCT oil may support brain health by providing ketones, an important source of energy for the brain. This could help maintain cognitive function and prevent neurodegenerative diseases.
