The Benefits of MCT Oil in a Ketogenic Diet

Medium Chain Triglyceride Oil (MCT Oil) has a variety of benefits that are enticing to keto dieters, making it a staple in the supplement regimen of many. While MCTs can be found in a variety of oils and dairy products, the 100 percent pure MCT oil found on store shelves is commonly a blend extracted from coconut and palm oil.

MCT Oil Benefits

Though still being explored through study, there are some benefits of MCT oil that have caught the attention of the scientific community. Namely, a study into the benefits of MCT oil and gastrointestinal disordered uncovered that the easy-to-digest nature of medium-chain triglycerides may help to aid in the absorption of nutrients, especially for those that have trouble digesting long-chain fatty acids.1

A Ketone Brain Boost

MCTs are incredibly efficient and break down inside our cells in a way that produces an excess of ketones.2 For those on a ketogenic diet, the additional boost in ketones means more energy, mental clarity, and focus. In fact, it’s suggested that the presence of ketones in the body could help improve cognition in Alzheimer’s patients.3 While our brains are accustomed to running on sugar as a primary fuel, the indication that they may improve cognition suggests that the brain is more efficient when fueled by ketones.

Weight Loss and Blood Sugar

Medium chain triglycerides, as compared to long-chain triglycerides, appear to have a consistent impact on both weight loss and blood sugar. In a study comparing the two types of fatty acids on subjects living in China, it was noted that those that supplemented with MCT oil achieved results in weight loss, reduction of cholesterol, and insulin resistance.4

Whether choosing a ketogenic diet for weight loss or the management of Type 2 Diabetes, the addition of MCT oil to your daily supplement regimen could prove useful.

Adding MCT Oil to Your Diet

It’s important to note that, while beneficial as a supplement, MCT oil is a fat and should be counted as such in your daily macros and will contribute to your calorie intake for the day. While not ideal for cooking, due to its low smoke point, MCT oil can be blended into your morning coffee or to your low sugar protein shake or pre-workout drink. Additionally, adding MCT oil to guacamole or using it in a homemade salad dressing are great ways to add this healthy fat to your diet.

It’s often reported that MCT oil can cause stomach discomfort, so it’s advised to start with a small dose before increasing how much you take each day.