There is a lot of discussion around MCT oils these days. Some can argue that it is a saturated fat, and it is not good for us, but it also can be argued that there are benefits. I think you really must decide for yourself whether you will benefit from it. Remember, we are all different and our bodies react differently. Also keep in mind that there are a lot of studies, misinformation, and factual information out there and we need to study and determine what we want for our own personal needs.
First, very quickly, what is MCT oil? MCT oil is a man-made product, from coconut oil or palm oil. Often it may be a blend of both. The coconut oil contains C6 (Caproic Acid), C8 (Caprylic Acid), C10 (Capric Acid) and C12 (Laurie Acid). The oil goes through a process called Fractionation, extracting mostly the C8 and C10, but could contain all four. (Read the label) These Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) are best absorbed in our bodies and products listing these are usually the purest, please read more about this. But remember MCT oils is a saturated fat that many think are bad for you. Many dairy products contain a lower amount of MCT and is why you will hear people adding butter to coffee. But the MCT oils have a molecular structure that absorbs quicker and processes quicker than other fats. This is why people on Keto add this to their meal plan.
When your body is in Ketosis, it is burning fat for energy, so the quicker the body can absorb it the quicker the body will get energy. This is the biggest reason why people use MCT oils.
But what if you are not doing Keto? Is there a benefit to adding MCTs into our daily lives?
MCTs can help promote weight loss outside of Keto. In many studies they have found that MCTs provide a sense of satiety. This is what is driving the Bulletproof Coffee business. Having a fat laden coffee may help you feel fuller in the morning, eating less or adding in intermittent fasting. MCT oils also seem to increase thermogenesis, accelerating the metabolic process that burns calories.
MCT oils have been in many studies around brain functions. People have found help with seizures related to epilepsy. There are ongoing studies around the benefits of using MCTs for Alzheimer’s. Who knows what will learn over the next years.
Some research has found that MCTs provide antibacterial and anti-fungal benefits. This has been found to help slow the growth of Candida fungus that is responsible for genital yeast infections.
The one that has my attention is around the possibility to reduce inflammation. Many diabetic studies have found that inflammation may be part of the cause of insulin resistance. I follow a Keto lifestyle and take MCTs. I can see my insulin resistance is improving. I have been off my insulin for over a year. I can now eat things that would normally shoot my blood glucose numbers up, thus proving my insulin resistance is getting better.
I came across several great articles that I want to share that may help with your own studies.
For me, my favorite form is Bulletproof Creamer and Bulletproof collagen in my morning coffee. Many will say it breaks my intermittent fasting, but it really helps me go through the morning feeling good. This gives me my brain power while on Keto and keeping me feeling full. I love the taste and the creaminess it gives my coffee.
I also have a liquid C8 product from Bulletproof that I will put in a Fairlife protein drink in the afternoon. This balances the fats and proteins.
I suggest that you spend some time and sift through the volume of information that is coming out on MCTs and decide if it would be something that could help you. Don’t just take my word or any one source. Also get some and try it out. I would suggest starting a small amount in the beginning, it can upset your stomach if you take too much all at once.
Like always, thanks for stopping in and reading my information. I hope this can help others in the future. Have a great day!
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