What is MCT Oil?
MCTs (or, Medium-Chain Triglycerides, for all you science wizards out there) are the healthy fats that are found in food (such as Coconut Oil!). What makes them special is how they’re metabolised by our bodies. Due to their shorter chain length, they’re broken down quicker than LCTs ( Long-Chain Triglycerides ’ the fatty stuff found in most other foods). MCTs go right into your liver, and are used as an instant energy source or turned into ketones (hence why they’re so popular with keto-dieters). Seeing as MCTs are used right away, they’re less likely to be stored as fat, making them a great diet addition for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight, or get an energy boost.
MCT Oil benefits
MCT supplements have a range of suggested health and wellbeing benefits, with people claiming they may help with brain function, sporting endurance, and improved weight management! Coconut Oil naturally contains MCTs along with LCTs (Long-Chain Triglycerides) and unsaturated fats. The lauric acids that are also found in Coconut Oil act more like an LCT and are slower to digest, compared to pure MCT Oils. Coconut Oil has a much higher smoke point than MCTs, so it's more suitable for use in cooking and baking ’ MCT Oils are generally only recommended for use in drinks or dressings.
If you want an easy way to introduce MCTs and the healthy fats found in Coconut Oils into your diet, I’ve compiled some of my favourite supplements on Nourished Life that are easy to implement into your daily routine.
Best MCT Oil supplements
Coconut Magic MCT Oil
This Coconut Magic MCT Oil is pure Coconut Oil, made entirely from concentrated MCTs Caprylic acid (C8) and Capric acid (C10). Ideal taken as a daily supplement, this oil has no taste or aroma, so it can also be added to shakes, smoothies, sauces and salad dressings. It's also perfect to make a Magic Bullet coffee! Keep in mind that unlike virgin Coconut Oil, this MCT Oil does not have a high smoke point, so it's not recommended for use in cooking.
Melrose Omega DHA & MCT Oil
The Melrose Omega DHA & MCT Oil combines a perfect ratio of DHA-rich fish oil from sustainable, wild-caught anchovies (DHA is an Omega 3 essential fatty acid) with MCTs from sustainably sourced Coconuts. Clear and odourless, 15ml of this premium oil can be taken daily ’ added to water or juice if desired.
Locako MCT Oil Powder
The Locako MCT Oil Powder contains two MCTs, Caprylic (C8) and Capric (C10), known for their fast-acting abilities to convert into clean energy. In a convenient powder form, this formula also features Prebiotic Acacia Fibre to help support digestive health, with delicious hint of flavour from Natural Vanilla. Vegan and gluten free, it can be added to your morning coffee or smoothie, and also works in baking and clean treats.
Melrose MCT Oil Pro Rapid
The Melrose MCT Oil Pro Rapid consists of C6 (Caproic Acid), C8 (Caprylic Acid) and C10 (Capric Acid) MCTs from organic Coconuts. Designed to be a fast-acting, natural source of energy, this oil can be daily on its own, in coffee, smoothies or added to salad dressings. Start with one teaspoon each day, then after one week, slowly increase to one-to-two tablespoons per day.
Melrose Premium Liquid Coconut Oil
This Melrose Premium Liquid Coconut Oil is produced from sustainably grown Coconuts. To keep its easy-to-use liquid form, a large percentage of the Lauric Acid contents are removed, meaning it consists primarily of MCTs. This high MCT content makes this oil an excellent source of energy, all while being easy to digest. I love putting this one in my smoothies or protein shakes, giving me an extra energy boost! It can also be used for cooking at low temperatures.
