Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), also known as medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), have the phrase “medium-chain” in the name because they feature 6-12 carbon atoms. To understand why they are known as medium-chain triglycerides in a better way, you should know that all the available dietary fats are molecules made up of individual carbon atoms that join to make chains of a length of 2 to 12 carbon atoms.
The predominant type of dietary fat in the United States is LCTs, which have a length between 13 and 18 carbons. Short-chain fatty acids have less than 6 carbons.
The naming methods are seemingly arbitrary, but the carbon content of fatty acids affects how your body digests and absorbs the fat you consume. A quick example: MCTs digest very fast and move to the liver directly, while LCTs require enzymes, bile, and chylomicrons for the body to absorb them completely.
Here are the key benefits of MCT Oil:
1. Promotes weight loss
For people working out to lose undesirable weight, MCT oil will help them achieve their goals faster in various ways. The oil facilitates the release of two vital body hormones, leptin and YY, that promote the feeling of fullness. Reading MCT wellness reviews can provide insights into how this supplement might support weight management, as it combines MCTs with other ingredients designed to boost energy and curb cravings. The oils work better than the popular coconut oil to keep the user full.A more recent study has shown that people who take two tablespoons of MCT oil during their breakfast eat less food during lunch than those who take coconut oil. The same study showed that the increase of glucose and triglycerides is lower with MCT oil, which highly contributes to the feeling of fullness.
Some reports have also shown that taking oil can reduce the waist circumference and body weight. Some researchers have reported that it helps prevent obesity too. The best MCT oils contain around 10 percent lesser calories than the long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), found in foods like nuts, olive oil and avocados.
2. Provides energy instantly to fuel the brain
Researchers have shown that MCT oils are a super fuel for the brain because the body absorbs them faster than the long-chain triglycerides that contain more carbons. The shorter chain length of the MCT oils means that they can travel directly from the gut to your liver and do not require bile for breakdown, which is the case with long-chain fats.When the oils enter the liver, the body can choose to use them as fuel or store them as body fat. But because the oils enter the body cells without the body breaking them down, they are used as an energy source.
For people on ketogenic diets, the liver can convert the MCTs into ketones. The ketones pass through the blood-brain barrier and fuel the brain cells.
3. Reduces build-up of lactate in athletes and increases the use of fat as energy
The popularity of MCT oil among athletes has been increasing rapidly. When working out, lactate levels rise, negatively affecting exercise performance. By using MCTs, athletes can reduce lactate build-up in their bodies.A recent study showed that athletes who consumed around 6 grams or 1.5 teaspoons of the MCT oils with food before they started cycling lowered their lactate levels and could exercise easily– compared to those who used LCTs.
Moreover, the study showed that using MCTs before a workout session helps athletes use fewer carbs and more fat for energy. While MCTs increase the burning of fat in the body during workouts, studies have provided mixed results on whether the oils can help people work better.
One study found that the oils improved the swimming capacity of mice, and another showed that the oils increased athletes' endurance during competitions. Thus, studies have shown that the oils do not negatively affect athletes' performance.
4. Helps manage diseases
Studies have also shown that MCT oils, along with ketogenic diets, can help manage some conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, and autism.Even though ketogenic diets have gained popularity among individuals willing to shed some pounds, researchers have introduced it as an effective way of managing epilepsy. Scientists suggest that fasting increases the production of ketones and reduces the frequency of seizures.
MCTs may also help manage conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, which impairs the brain's ability to use sugars. MCT oils offer a good source of energy.
Brain cells can then survive better. MCTs provide ketones, which block the brain receptors responsible for memory loss.
One available study report shows that a single MCT dose improves short-term cognition. Twenty to seventy grams of MCT supplements consist of capric or caprylic acid, which improves the symptoms of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease.
5. Fights growth of yeast and bacteria
MCTs have strong antifungal and antimicrobial effects. They are known to prevent the growth of Candida albicans, a yeast that causes various skin infections and thrush.A test-tube study showed that oils reduce the growth of disease-causing bacteria known as Clostridium difficile.
The oils' ability to reduce the growth of bacteria and yeast is due to their capric, caprylic, and lauric acid content.
The oils suppress the growth of widespread infectious fungus by around 50 percent in hospitals.
6. Controls the levels of blood sugar levels and supports and management of diabetes
MCT oil is also good for people with diabetes. Most individuals living with type-2 diabetes are either obese or overweight. For them, the weight is hard to manage.However, the MCTs are known to reduce the storage of fat and increase fat burning in the body.
A small Chinese study involving 40 individuals showed that people who consume MCT oil daily can reduce their waist circumference, body weight, and insulin resistance.
Another study involving 10 diabetic people showed that they needed 30 percent less sugar after insulin injection and consuming MCT to maintain the proper level of blood sugar. That is unlikely to happen with LCTs.
Conclusion
By taking some MCT oil each morning, you will enjoy more benefits and reduce your disease risks. The oils contain fatty acids that reduce body fat, increase fullness, and improve the gut environment to promote weight loss.Oils are a great source of energy, reduce the growth of bacteria, and help protect the heart. They can also manage Alzheimer’s disease, autism, epilepsy, and diabetes. Potential side effects include fat accumulation in the liver and increased hunger.
To avoid the side effects, stick to 1-2 tablespoons daily.
