Nowadays, there are many dietary supplements known to help improve sleep, and better vision and MCT oil is one of them. The supplement has become prevalent due to its use by bodybuilders and fitness gurus. This interest has grown quickly over time, thanks to its rich source of coconut oil.
MCTs can help in weight loss, which is a plus. But what is MCT oil? What does it do? Is it beneficial? Does it have side effects? Read this guide to understand all about it.
What is MCT Oil?
One of the most asked questions among people is ‘What is MCT oil’? For starters, MCT is a fat supplement called medium-chain triglyceride. We know that not all fats are made the same. Normally, the healthier fats are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. For instance, omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats helping in regulating inflammation.
MCTs, on the other hand, are a type of saturated fatty acid. Therefore, MCT oil is a source of fatty acids. The MCT is often found in coconut oils and is processed by our bodies in different ways. As compared to other fats, MCTs go directly to the liver from the gut where they are used as energy or changed to ketones.
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Some Important Benefits of MCT Oil
There are several MCT oil benefits worth knowing. Below is what MCT oil can help you with;
1. Helps in Weight Loss
MCTs are claimed to have good effects on burning fat in our bodies and reducing weight. One of the reasons MCT oil has become popular is MCT oil for weight loss. If you consume MCT oil for breakfast, you’ll likely take fewer calories at lunch. This is a result of a lower rise in glucose and postprandial triglycerides.
MCTs prevent overeating as it makes you feel satisfied before the meal. Besides, MCT can help increase thermogenesis which is a metabolic procedure where the body burns calories to produce heat to help in weight loss.
2. Boosts Energy
MCT oil is a great source of energy and one of the major MCT Oil Benefits. When in the liver, the MCTs are turned to ketones such as beta-hydroxybutyrate that help provide more energy for the brain when in a fasting state. This increases the concentration and elevates your focus. In addition, MCT oil helps the body to produce ketones, compounds used as an energy source when the glucose is very low, especially when on a diet.
3. Protects the Heart
Among the many MCT oil benefits, its ability to help in the heart’s health makes it stand out. Normally, the oil prevents metabolic syndrome from developing. Metabolic syndrome is a term given to conditions of metabolic disorders like obesity, hypertension, etc.
MCT is believed to lower the cholesterol in livers and enhance the levels of serum lipids. It reduces the levels of low-density bad cholesterol in the body while increasing the levels of good cholesterol. This, in turn, improves heart health as well as reduces the high risks of cardiovascular diseases.
4. Improves Mood and Performance
The human brain is about 60% fat, which means our brains are largely made of fatty acids. Therefore, you need to incorporate fats in your diet to help you feel the best, perform well, and also think clearly. MCTs are medium-chain fats that are easily digestive, mostly used, and protective fatty acids in existence.
They are helpful for those on a ketogenic diet since they help reduce the effects of keto induction as well as improve ketosis. Studies show that the use of MCT oil can aid in improving memory problems. Additionally, it helps support the exercise performance of the high intensity exercise.
5. Helps in the Digestion and Absorption of Nutrients
MCT oil is beneficial in balancing the bacteria in gut microbiota. This has a positive impact on digestive symptoms, energy expenditure and minerals and vitamins from the foods you take.
MCTs help in killing pathogens, bacteria, and strains that bring digestive problems, including constipation, food poisoning, diarrhea, stomach aches, etc. Consuming fatty acids will help absorb some vitamins as well as nutrients found in the foods.
Side Effects of MCT Oil
With MCT Oil Benefits, there are some side effects too. Generally, MCT oil is safe to use when taken in moderation. But not all people experience the same results, and some may experience side effects, especially when taken in large amounts. Common MCT oil side effects include;
- Nausea: Some people might experience the feeling of vomiting after taking MCT oil. This happens if you’re sensitive to dietary fats.
- Gastrointestinal Distress: This is the most common MCT oil side effect. You may experience gastrointestinal discomfort such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, and gas.
- Allergic reactions: Even though it is rare, some people may have allergies when consuming MCT oil due to the ingredients used in the product. Signs of an allergic reaction include itching, swelling, hives, etc.
- High levels of cholesterol: Consuming more MCT oils can result in increased levels of cholesterol in the body.
Conclusion
MCT oil provides many health benefits since it’s derived from coconut oils. It is composed of medium-chain fatty acids such as lauric acid, capric acid, etc. Despite that, understanding the MCT oil side effects is also important. So before taking it, make sure you learn the effects that come with it.
