https://www.exercise.com/supplements/mct
MCT

MCT

Aid Overall Health / Increase Energy / Lose Weight / Improve Sports

Medium Chain Triglycerides, or MCTs,­­ are the recommended fat of the day. Very similar to the composition of butter, palm oil and coconut oil, MCT oil is made up of caprylic and capric fatty acids. The capric molecules of fatty acids are used as opposed to the caprylic, which is eliminated and used as an octanoic acid. The shorter carbonic strands are metabolized quicker than other forms of fat.

MCT is used immediately as a carbohydrate energy source by the body. It does not go through the normal digestive process before filtering through the liver, nor is it a carbohydrate. The quick absorption properties of MCT grabs the attraction of athletes, weight trainers and bodybuilders. It increases the metabolic rate while maintaining blood sugar levels. This translates to more energy, especially during workouts

MCT supplements are not just used by those looking for an exercise boost. As noted below, there are many significant uses for people with a wide range of issues.

Not all types of physical activity are suitable for everyone. Users take training advice at their own personal risk.

Summary

MCT Benefits The health benefits of MCT oil are mostly related to digestion and metabolism. Consequently, people who suffer from related conditions such as: Diabetes Obesity Crohn’s Disease Diverticulitis Irritable Bowel Syndrome Candida (Yeast Infec... more

MCT Benefits

The health benefits of MCT oil are mostly related to digestion and metabolism. Consequently, people who suffer from related conditions such as:

…are likely to benefit from MCT oil. People with cystic fibrosis and hyper or hypothyroidism also benefit from using MCT oil. It increases ketone levels in the blood as well. Although MCT oil is closely related to coconut oil, MCT has higher ketone levels. Current studies are showing a relation between MCT and improved hearing and memory in Alzheimer’s patients.

MCT Products

Several supplement providers offer MCT based products. Some of them include:

  • MCT Fuel - A TwinLab orange flavored product that is mixed with juice and other liquids. This product also contains filtered water, glycerin, sorbitol, soy lecithin, cellulose, xanthan gum, alpha tocopherol, and ascorbic palmitate.
  • MCT Oil - A Now Foods product that you mix with whey protein isolate, foods and salad. It contains 100% pure MCT oil.
  • MCT Caprylic Acid Softgels - Now Foods offer this product and suggests that it be taken in combination with virgin coconut oil and oregano oil softgels. These capsules also contain gelatin, glycerin and water.
  • MCT Gold - Offered by Ultimate Nutrition as pure oil.
  • MCT Oil - Life Enhancement, Durk Pearson and Sandy Shaw’s Functional Gourmet version is intended as a cooking and salad oil. It is mixed with a little glycerin.

Use the supplement finder provided to compare these and others right now. MCT is commonly used in combination with other supplements. Many protein powders, shakes and pre-workout energy drinks contain the healthy oil. If you choose to cook with it, keep in mind that it is not a frying oil. The boiling point is too low for frying. It should be kept cool and dry.

Protein powders and pre-workout drinks containing MCT oil are generally pre-measured and processed as a compound for high performance athletes. Others simply add a tablespoon to their favorite smoothie or pasta meals and stews. Hospitals even use it intravenously to help patients regain their strength while recuperating.

MCT Dosage

A one to two ounce dose or 15 to 30 milliliters is enough for one day. Fitness pros and personal trainers suggest one half tablespoon of MCT oil per meal. Then eventually work up to one tablespoon three times per day. MCT energy products are taken before a workout. It is suggested that you take it on a full stomach .

Overuse can result in gastrointestinal problems. If you have hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver hypertension, or other liver conditions, you are advised to consult your physician before using MCT for they may have to monitor and adjust your recommended dosage. It should only make up 10% of a healthy person’s daily diet.

MCT Side Effects

Aside from occasional reports of an upset stomach and diarrhea, MCT is tolerable in most people. Too much can lead ketosis which is a condition developed when an overload of ketones are generated. This process acts like an overproduction of insulin, which is secreted in the blood and urine. Diabetics have to be careful in selectively using this product before consulting a physician.

MCT Product Reviews

People seem to like this light oil for cooking and as a salad dressing. Most say it has no taste, nor is it too thick. Most reviewers were impressed with the amount of weight they lost by using it in their recipes. One reviewer, whose husband had pancreatic surgery was able to use it immediately thereafter since it does not require digestive enzymes to assimilate.

Other reviews mention additional health benefits to using this oil. Several active users noticed the energy increase they experienced while a few women noted how it improved their intestinal flora and helped to treat vaginal candida infections. Adverse reviews involved taste and packaging. As with any supplement, even healthy people are advised to inform your doctor before using. Use the supplement finder to compare MCT product options now!

Other

  • Side Effects
  • Other Names
  • Uses
Diarrhea
Upset Stomach
Ketosis
Contraindicated For Certain Medical Conditions
1,2,3-Propanetriol Trioctanoate, AC-1202, Capric Acid, Caproic Acid, Caprylic Acid, Caprylic Triglycerides, Lauric Acid, MCT's, MCTs, Medium-Chain Triacylglycerols, Medium-Chain Triglycerides, Tricaprylin, Triglycérides à Chaîne Moyenne, Triglicéridos de Cadena Media (TCMs), Trioctanoin
Alzheimer's
Blood Sugar Levels
Candida (Yeast Infections)
Crohn's Disease
Cystic Fibrosis
Diabetes
Digestion
Diverticulitis
Energy
Hyperthyroidism
Hypothyroidism
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Metabolism
Obesity
Weight Loss