Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil is a versatile and healthy fat source that offers a wide variety of benefits. Typically extracted from coconut oil, it contains fatty acids that are efficiently converted into fuel for both the body and brain.
MCTs are shorter and easier to digest than the long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) found in most foods (ie: animal, fish, and dairy fats). This means that they provide some unique benefits, including improved energy levels, support for weight loss, and even enhanced cognitive function.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at MCT oil and explain why it's a fantastic addition to your wellness routine. From the science behind its health benefits to creative ways to include it in your daily diet, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we'll share some tips to help you choose a high-quality MCT oil and enjoy all the benefits in a safe and healthy way.
Understanding MCT Oil
Before we explore the different ways to use MCT oil, let's take a deeper dive into what exactly it is and how it works in the body.
As mentioned earlier, MCT oil is a type of fat that's typically extracted from coconut oil. Although it can also be derived from other natural sources such as palm kernel oil and dairy products, coconut oil is the most common and popular source.
The reason for this is that coconut oil has the highest levels of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), namely lauric acid, caprylic acid, and capric acid.
When consumed, MCTs go straight to the liver where they're rapidly broken down by enzymes and converted into ketones. These ketones can then be used as a source of energy for the brain and body, making MCT oil an efficient fuel source.
Additionally, MCTs have been found to boost metabolism, increase feelings of fullness, and even improve cognitive function. That's why MCT oil is often used as a supplement to improve overall health and performance.
What's the Difference Between MCT Oil and Coconut Oil?
Since MCT oil is extracted from coconut oil, you may be wondering if there's any difference between the two. While they do come from the same source, there are a few key differences between MCT oil and coconut oil.
MCT oil, like our CocoTherapy TriPlex MCT-3 Oil, is a purified form of medium-chain triglyceride oil derived from organic coconut oil. It contains primarily caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) fatty acids, with a small amount of lauric acid (C12).
These MCTs are quickly absorbed and metabolized by the body for energy. It's often used as a supplement for energy, weight management, cognitive issues, and seizures. While most MCT oils are tasteless and does not have a coconut smell (due to its highly refined processing), TriPlex MCT-3 oil has a mild coconut oil smell and taste, but it's much less intense than pure coconut oil.
On the other hand, virgin coconut oil, like CocoTherapy Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, is extracted from the meat of fresh coconuts without the use of chemicals or high temperatures. It contains a mixture of fatty acids, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) along with lauric acid (C12) and other long-chain fatty acids.
Taken orally as a healthy fat supplement, it boosts the immune system, combats allergies, promotes skin health, reduces inflammation, and has powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties. Used topically, it’s an excellent oral health aid and skin healing agent. Virgin coconut oil has a rich nutty coconut smell and taste.
Both types of oil have their own advantages: MCT oil for fast-acting energy and weight management, and coconut oil for its broader health benefits and its culinary and topical uses. Your choice between MCT oil and coconut oil will depend on your specific health goals and how you plan to use the oil.
What Are the Benefits of MCT Oil?
Now that we've looked at what MCT oil is and how it's different from coconut oil, here's a quick overview of its key benefits:
- Easily absorbed. The structure of MCTs makes them easier to digest than longer-chain fatty acids. They don't require bile salts for digestion and can be a helpful supplement for those with digestive problems that prevent the absorption of conventional fats.
- Quick source of energy. Due to their shorter chain length, MCTs are rapidly broken down and absorbed into the body. This makes them a quick, readily available energy source – especially useful for athletes or those in need of a swift energy boost.
- Brain health – no brain fog. MCT oil is converted into ketones, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and provide energy to the brain cells. This can help with maintaining focus and clarity, staving off the mental fog that can come from a high-carb diet.
- Heart health. MCT oil can also contribute to maintaining a healthy heart by managing weight, cholesterol, and inflammation.
- Great for people who can’t handle fats. Those with malabsorption issues or who've had gallbladder surgery may find MCT oil easier to digest than other fats.
- Helps maintain a healthy weight. MCT oil has been shown to increase satiety, which can help with weight loss and management. It's also less likely to be stored as fat compared to LCTs.
12 Versatile Uses for MCT Oil
Ready to incorporate MCT oil into your daily routine and take advantage of the fantastic benefits we've highlighted above? Here are 12 healthy and nutritious ways to use MCT oil for yourself:
1) Morning Kickstart
By adding MCT oil to your coffee or tea, you can enjoy a creamy texture along with a sustained energy boost without the crash that sometimes follows a high-carb breakfast.
2) Smoothie Power
Try adding MCT oil to your favorite smoothie recipe for a boost of energy and a creamy texture. It can help keep you full and provide sustained energy throughout the day.
3) Salad Dressings
Mix MCT oil with your favorite herbs, vinegar, and spices to create a delicious salad dressing. It adds a rich, smooth texture and enhances the flavor of your salad. Here are some of our favorite recipes: MCT Oil Salad Dressing Keto Recipes to Supercharge Your Salads.
4) Meal Finishing Touch
Use MCT oil as a finishing oil for cooked vegetables, grilled meats, roasted potatoes, pasta, and more! It adds a subtle nutty flavor and boosts the healthy fat content of your meal.
5) Homemade Energy Bars or Balls
MCT oil can bind together nuts, seeds, granola, and dried fruits for homemade energy bars or balls. These healthy treats are perfect for a pre-workout snack or a midday energy boost!
6) Breakfast Boosts
A swirl of MCT oil in your morning yogurt or oatmeal can enrich the texture and add a dose of healthy fats to start your day right.
7) Cooking and Baking with MCT Oil
MCT oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking and baking at higher temperatures. Use it to sauté vegetables, fry eggs, or replace other oils in your favorite recipes.
8) Flavorful Sauces and Dips
Emulsify MCT oil into sauces and dips to enhance their creaminess and add a nutritional boost. You'll love the creamy texture and flavor it adds to guacamole, hummus, and more.
9) Frozen Treats
Create your own healthy popsicles by mixing MCT oil with coconut milk, mashed fruit, and a sweetener of your choice (optional). Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for a delicious and refreshing treat.
10) Savory Popcorn Snack
Mix MCT oil with melted butter or coconut oil and drizzle over freshly popped popcorn. Sprinkle with nutritional yeast, salt, and your favorite seasonings for a tasty and satisfying snack.
11) DIY Energy Gel
Combine MCT oil with coconut nectar or honey, chia seeds, and a pinch of sea salt to create your own homemade energy gel. Transfer the mixture to small squeeze pouches for a convenient and portable fuel source during workouts or outdoor activities.
12) Straight-up Supplementation
Like to keep things simple? You can take MCT oil by the spoonful as a dietary supplement. Start with a small amount and gradually increase your dosage to avoid digestive discomfort. Adults should work up to a dose of 1 tablespoon, two or three times a day.
Choosing a High-Quality MCT Oil
When shopping for MCT oil, be sure to choose a high-quality product that uses pure and organic ingredients, and is not highly refined. Look for oils derived from coconut oil (rather than palm kernel oil) and check the label for any added fillers or artificial ingredients.
CocoTherapy TriPlex™ MCT-3 Oil is a unique blend of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oil, with higher levels of caprylic acid and capric acid, PLUS lauric acid.
Unlike other MCT oils, TriPlex MCT-3 is 100% pure and natural. This means that it retains the smell and taste of fresh coconut oil. Other brands of MCT oils are refined and deodorized, and do not have the natural smell or taste of coconut. In addition to this, other brands do not contain lauric acid.
Our TriPlex MCT-3 Oil is made from coconuts that are 100% certified organic and non-GMO, ensuring that what you're getting is of the highest quality. We use a cold-press method to extract the oil, which means we don't use high heat or harsh chemicals that could compromise the oil’s natural benefits.
It's pure and natural, just as nature intended, without any trans fats or cholesterol. Plus, since we don't use palm oil or refined and deodorized ingredients, you get a product that's as close to the source as possible – full of the healthy fats your body needs
Ready to give it a try and experience the many benefits of MCT oil for yourself? Visit our website to learn more about CocoTherapy TriPlex™ MCT-3 Oil and place your order today!
