What is MCT Oil?
Based on widespread interest in coconut oil, more consumers have exhibited strong interests in MCT oils. MCT stands for medium-chain triglyceride (x). MCT oil is a health supplement comprised of medium-length chain triglycerides. Triglycerides are stored as fat or used for energy in the body.
MCT oil supplements are a man-made, but highly concentrated source of MCTs derived through a process called fractionation. Most common fats are long-chain, which implies that they take longer to digest. In contrast, MCT triglycerides are easier to process based on their shorter chain lengths and direct route to the liver. In addition to digestive benefits, MCT oils also offer a wide range of merits for your holistic health.
Most MCT oil supplements are derived from coconut oil, mainly because it is one of the best sources of medium-chain triglycerides. There are four kinds of medium-chain triglycerides, each with their own specific benefits; hexanoic acid (c6), decanoic acid (c10), octanoic acid (c8) and dodecanoic acid (c12) (x).
Coconut oil fat is over 50 percent medium-chain triglycerides, thus making it a leading choice for most supplements. However, MCTs are also present in a wide range of other consumable items. For example, some of the most conventional secondary sources of MCTs are in dairy products and palm oil. Of all forms of medium-chain triglyceride, those most widely used in MCT oil supplements are capric acid (c10) and caprylic acid (c8). The only way to increase the amount of MCT in your diet is to take a supplement or increase your consumption of foods that contain medium-chain triglycerides.
MCT Oil Benefits
Fuel Source
Medium-chain triglycerides are absorbed by the body much quicker than LTC due to the lower carbon content in their fatty acid chains (x). The advantage of having a shorter chain is that these triglycerides can bypass the need to be broken down by bile, which allows them to go straight to the liver for processing. The liver is where the fat in your body is converted into adipose or used for fuel (x). It is much easier for medium-chain triglycerides to be used by cells without the need for deconstruction; in turn, this process can better enable them to become an immediate fuel source (x).
When MCT oils are consumed and passed straight to the liver, they can be converted directly into ketones which may smoothly overcome the brain-blood barrier. When the brain has a steady source of instant fuel, one can think more clearly and work more efficiently.
Weight Loss
MCT oil supplements are often used as a tool to enhance the results of weight loss efforts. Medium-chain triglyceride oils trigger the release of leptin and peptide YY, which allow our bodies to feel full (x). Some studies allege that medium-chain triglyceride oils have been effective in reducing the size of the waist and reducing the overall body weight in those taking the supplement (x, x). Other studies indicate how taking an MCT oil supplement instead of coconut oil as part of the morning meal may help to stay full longer and also reduce the amount of food consumed at the midday meal as a result. This effect is achieved due to the level of glucose and triglycerides increasing much slower with the presence of MCT oil.
Medium-chain triglycerides have fewer calories than long-chain triglycerides in addition to being used differently in the body. These key differences may contribute to how effectively your body burns calories.
Use Topically to Improve & Combat Signs of Aging while adding moisture
Since it is odorless and colorless, MCT oil can be easily incorporated into your own, home-made beauty products. Making a small pin hole in a softgel is a great way to use what you need and keep it fresh. Here are a few suggested uses for MCT oil:
- Skin moisturizer: MCT oil is a great moisturizer and may reduce the appearance of stretch marks and wrinkles. It has a nice lightweight texture
- Hair conditioner: Oils for hair care have been making a mark as of late. MCT oil is a great hair conditioner! Before shampooing, apply a masque of oil to your hair and let sit for a few minutes before shampooing.
- Massage oil or personal lubricant: A safe and gentle alternative to petroleum-based jellies, MCT oil works well as a massage oil.
- Makeup remover: The oil will liquefy eye makeup so you can gently wipe it away.
- Lip balm: Rub it into your lips to moisturize and prevent chapping. This is also a great way to help feather lines.
- Shaving oil: Apply to skin as an alternative to shaving cream, and use it after shaving to help reduce ingrown hairs and razor burn, keeping skin soft.
- After-sun sunburn remedy: If you get too much sun exposure, or just feeling a bit dry, apply MCT oil to the affected areas to promote healing and prevent pealing.
- Nail cuticle oil: Moisturize your cuticles with MCT oil before pushing them back and to help prevent fungal infections.
