Surprising benefits of MCT oil
If we told you about a supplement that boosts fat burning while increasing memory and mental clarity would you want to know more? We certainly did! We’ve been hearing the buzz around MCT oil for a while, so we decided it was high time we dug into the facts.
MCT (medium chain triglyceride) is a form of saturated fat found in coconut oil, but it’s unlike most other saturated fats. Because its carbon chain is medium length (not a long chain like found in other saturated fats), MCT is easily absorbed. It doesn’t have to be mixed with bile and pancreatic enzymes to be digested. Instead it has the ability to diffuse through your intestinal membrane into your bloodstream and then to the liver. There it’s converted to ketones, which are burned for energy. So it’s a saturated fat that is not stored as fat; it’s burned as fuel, producing a thermogenic effect.
That’s why MCT oil can help with weight loss. According to Dr. Mark Hyman, “for many patients, MCT becomes that little nudge to help you drop those last 10-15 stubborn pounds that just won’t go away.”
We also know the brain can use ketones for fuel. Studies show MCT can improve learning, memory and brain processing in older people with mild to moderate cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer’s.
Because MCT oil has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, it can be beneficial for balancing bacteria in the gut, improving digestion. Not only that, a 2007 study found MCT improved diabetes risk factors, including insulin resistance in a small group of participants with type 2 diabetes.
So how do you take MCT oil? Dr. Mercola recommends taking no more than 1 teaspoon to start, as too much too soon might cause digestive upset. He suggests taking it along with other fats (nuts, salad dressing, etc.), and slowly working up to 4 tablespoons daily. Dr. Hyman suggests you add it to salad dressing recipes, smoothies, marinades, coffee or just take it by the spoonful. “I use it every morning to speed up my metabolism and keep my mind sharp and focused,” he says. “It also keeps me full and satisfied longer, so it prevents me from food emergencies and snacking.”
Sounds like a plan! And just so you know, we recently added Garden of Life Dr. Formulated MCT oil, which is USDA organic. We’d love for our customers to try it and give us feedback!
