It may surprise you to learn about the numerous health benefits of MCT oil, a relatively overlooked nutraceutical product. MCT oils are a popular dietary supplement, particularly among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The oil is made from a variety of fat sources. But we are often reminded to avoid fats and oils for health reasons. Is MCT oil any different? It turns out that there are numerous health benefits of MCT Oil, and MCT oil can even help you to lose weight.
Health Benefits of MCT Oil
There are different types of medium-chain triglycerides. The variety depends on the number of carbon atoms along a chain.
Caproic acid (6)
Caprylic (8)
Capric (10)
Lauric (12)
MCTs with fewer carbon atoms are more readily absorbed into the cells. A faster rate of absorption means that the molecules convert into ketone energy faster. Ketones are the energy molecules released when the body runs on fats during ketosis.
MCT oils are saturated fats. Contrary to popular beliefs about saturated fats, the MCTs have an upside and help you lose weight. However, common misconceptions have made many people avoid saturated oils and hence skip on numerous potential benefits.
Below are some of the top health benefits of MCT oil.
Improved Cognitive Functioning
Your brain needs fatty acids for you to think clearly and perform cognitive tasks better. A steady supply of MCT oil will also improve your mood and brain ability. The brain of an Alzheimer’s patient has a reduced ability to exploit glucose for energy. However, the release of ketones provides an alternative energy source. Studies have shown that MCT oil can result in improvements in patients who are suffering from cognitive impairments.
Weight Loss
You probably don’t expect to shed a few pounds by consuming saturated fats. However, MCT oil is a metabolism booster, and like dietary fiber, the oil is bulky. You can expect to be fuller for extended periods. Your cravings will disappear, and you won’t overload your digestive tract with empty carbs. Also, the supplement has been shown to increase the rate of fat oxidation and energy expenditure. Additionally, MCT oil drops the rate at which your body lays down fat. Saturated fats enhance thermogenesis which exploits fat molecules for energy.
Improve Your Heart Health
Your heart is at risk from inflammation, blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Harmful activities like smoking also increase the risk of heart disease. Fortunately, MCT oil supports weight loss and reduces the amount of bad cholesterol. The supplement has anti-inflammatory properties, which cuts back C-reactive protein. The substance increases the risk of heart disease owing to its inflammatory nature.
Sources of MCT Oil
You can obtain MCTs from a diet containing milk, butter, cheese, and coconut oil. Commercially, some of these ingredients are processed to produce the MCT oil supplement. Coconut and palm kernel oils are notable ingredients.
MCT oil can be used as a daily supplement. You can quickly increase your daily intake because the oil doesn’t have a distinct smell or flavor. Therefore, you are better off starting with small doses and gradually upping the intake.
A daily intake of half a teaspoon up to a full tablespoon per day is recommended. Still, keep in mind that MCTs are fats and high in calories. The product is also quite expensive, and you’re better off using it economically.
Takeaway
MCT oil is a fantastic dietary supplement that can complement a weight loss regimen. The oil supplies ketones, which your body, and in particular the brain, needs for energy. However, MCT oil is still composed of fat molecules, and an unrestricted intake can build up in your liver. There are different ways to consume MCT oil. Besides direct ingestion, you can use the oil while baking, making smoothies, and on salads, which all allow you to enjoy the health benefits of MCT oil.
About NutraProse
NutraProse focuses on providing content marketing services for smaller nutraceutical companies. NutraProse provides a variety of services, including copywriting, blog posts, copy editing, localization, logo designs, and social media management. Click here to learn more about our content marketing services.
