MCT oil has been getting increased attention as a dietary supplement. Many may consider MCT oil is reserved for people with an active lifestyle or those who are sticking to a keto diet, but it actually has a lot more benefits which makes MCT oil suitable for a wider range of people. Not sure if MCT oil will benefit you? Read this article to figure it out!
What is MCT oil?
MCT oil is made of a type of fat called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are usually found in coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and dairy products. Compared to the long-chain triglycerides in olive oil, soybean oil, avocado, etc., which are more common in a person’s diet, the shorter-chain-structured MCT oil is processed differently by the body, going straight from the gut to the liver without the process of breaking down. In the liver, MCT oil can be quickly digested and converted into energy instead of being stored as fat. This makes MCT Oil great for those looking for quick energy or a way to kick hunger cravings to the curb.
Now that you know the basics of what MCT oil is, it is also important to understand some of the major benefits that MCT oil can provide!
1. Better Workout Results
For those who would like to burn more fat during the workout, MCT oil can be the perfect partner to help you achieve this goal. Studies have shown that MCTs can produce ketones to accelerate the metabolism and as a result, the body burns more fat during the workout. The ketones from MCT oil make your body run on fat instead of carbs. People who are looking to lose more weight or are on the Keto diet, will find MCT oil particularly helpful.
Besides fat-burning, MCTs also help reduce lactate buildup. During exercise, the rising lactate levels can negatively impact your performance. Studies have shown that when taking 1.5 teaspoons of MCTs with food before the workout, you will have better workout performance and lower lactate levels compared to taking regular long-chain fatty acids.
If you have an interest in fitness you will find MCT oil a beneficial source of energy. Yet, MCT oil is not just for active people! Its many benefits for the human body make it a good supplement almost everyone.
2. Stress-free Digestion and Healthy Gut
MCTs reduce your gut’s burden of breaking down the long-chain fat. MCTs are easily digested and sent directly to your liver. There, the MCTs will have a thermogenic effect and have a positive impact on your metabolism. This process is how your body burns MCTs for energy rather than storing them as fat. MCTs strengthen your gut by containing the growth of bacteria, virus, fungi, and parasites. The caprylic, capric, and lauric acid within MCTs give it the capacity to combat bad bacteria and to cleanse your gut environment!
3. Risk-Free Heart
MCT oil is also proven to have a positive impact on reducing risk factors for heart disease, such as cholesterol. A study found that people who take MCT have lower LDL, which is the bad cholesterol, and instead, they have higher HDL, which is the good cholesterol that protects the heart! The ability to keep the good while destroying the bad cholesterol makes MCT oil an excellent supplement to prevent heart disease.
4. Higher Mental Stamina
Other than the gut and the heart, MCTs do good for your brain as well! Your brain needs lots of fatty acids to function and MCT oil can provide not only the necessary fatty acids but also the more easily digested ones for the brain. Studies found that MCTs can generate energy for your brain cells which helps reduce memory problems which is why MCT is great to take before work or a big presentation. By taking MCTs, your body absorbs vitamins and minerals better, allowing you to stay more concentrated and full of energy. You can expect an improved cognitive focus and boosted energy with the help of MCT oil!
