Health Benefits Of MCT Oil

Medical review by Susan Fisher, RD

MCT oil, or medium chain triglyceride oil, is a processed fat that contains shorter fat chains than other sources of dietary fat. These short fat chains are digested more quickly. Its unique chemical composition is also beneficial for people suffering from fat malabsorption and some neurological diseases.

There are four types of MCTs: caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, and lauric acid. Each has a slightly different chemical structure. You can find it naturally in coconut oil, cow's milk, or palm kernel oil. MCTs can also be made synthetically and added to foods or supplements.

Because MCTs are shorter than other saturated fats, they are digested and absorbed differently, providing unique benefits. MCTs are commonly used to treat digestive disorders, and new research suggests that they may also help treat neurological disorders.

It's worth noting that although some supplement manufacturers claim that MCT oil helps improve athletic performance, recent research suggests that MCT oil has little benefit for physical performance.

1. Can help fight epilepsy

MCT oil can help reduce the frequency of seizures in people with epilepsy. This is partly because MCTs are rapidly metabolized to form ketone bodies.

Ketone bodies are a source of energy for the body and brain, which are formed as a result of fatty acid metabolism in the liver. It usually occurs when the body doesn't get enough glucose (sugar) from carbohydrates so it has to be converted into fat for energy. However, when you consume MCT oil, your body produces ketones without fasting or following a ketogenic diet.

Some researchers believe that ketones are a more efficient source of energy for the brain than glucose for people with neurological conditions such as epilepsy or Alzheimer's disease. Currently, people with drug-resistant epilepsy, especially children, need to frequently consume high-fat, low-carbohydrate and ketogenic foods to reduce the frequency of seizures. Researchers see MCT oil as a potential new functional food in medicine because it produces ketones without the need for a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet.

For example, a recent study found that patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who supplemented their diet with MCT oil for three months had 42 percent fewer seizures compared with baseline. The research is promising, but further research including a control group is needed to confirm the effects.

2. May help prevent or treat Alzheimer's disease

The metabolism of MCTs into ketone bodies may also help prevent and treat Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease is associated with brain resistance to insulin. In fact, the brain has difficulty using glucose for energy. Therefore, researchers believe that ketone bodies may be a more efficient source of energy for the brain when cognitive decline begins, which may contribute to cognitive outcomes.

A recent review and meta-analysis of 16 studies examined the effects of MCTs in people with subjective cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer's disease. Researchers found that blood ketones increased among participants taking MCTs in 16 studies.

Some of these studies found improvements in cognitive function with MCTs, while others found no changes. Therefore, although MCTs increase ketone levels, more research is needed to confirm that this results in better cognitive outcomes.

Related: What Causes Alzheimer's Disease?

3. Can help prevent malnutrition in digestive disorders

MCTs have been used in fat malabsorption because they are easier to digest and absorb than long chain fats. This is important because people with fat malabsorption are at greater risk of experiencing malnutrition. MCTs are effective because, unlike most fats, they do not require bile salts for absorption. A study of premature babies found that replacing 40 percent of their fat intake with MCTs increased overall fat absorption by 10 percent.

Additionally, because MCTs do not require pancreatic enzymes for digestion, they can be an effective supplement for people with pancreatic insufficiency. A small study found that in adults with chronic pancreatitis, taking an enteral formula using MCTs with 69 percent fat three times daily for 10 weeks reduced stomach pain after meals.

Many cases of fat malabsorption require enteral (through the intestines) or parenteral (outside the intestines, such as intravenously) nutrition, so the MCT ratio is determined by your healthcare professional or nutritionist.

How to take MCT oil

MCT oil supplements often come in powder or liquid form. It is usually unflavored and pairs well with your favorite drink, such as juice. You can also add it to dishes such as oatmeal or pancake batter. Liquid MCT supplements can also be added to salad dressings. Take MCT oil with food to reduce its possible effects on the digestive system.

Dose

There is no recommended daily amount of MCT oil, and no upper limit. However, some researchers advise people not to exceed 4-7 tablespoons per day.

MCT oil is a form of saturated fat. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends limiting saturated fat intake to 10 percent of total daily calories. The American Heart Association has stricter guidelines; They recommend no more than 5 to 6 percent of calories come from saturated fat.

The exception is those following a ketogenic diet to treat epilepsy, which should be done under the strict supervision of a healthcare professional. If this happens, it is likely that a person's saturated fat intake will be higher.

Is MCT oil safe?

MCT oil is generally considered safe to consume. However, research on the safety of MCT oil supplements for pregnant and breastfeeding women is limited. As a general rule, it's best to talk to your doctor before taking supplements.

Possible drug interactions

This study found no interactions between MCT oil and other medications or supplements. However, always consult a doctor or nutritionist before starting a new supplement, especially if you are taking other supplements or medications. They can advise you about the safety of taking MCT oil based on your personal treatment and health needs.

What you should pay attention to

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate dietary supplements as food or pharmaceutical products. To ensure the quality of your product, it is best to purchase MCT oil supplements that have been tested for purity and effectiveness by a third party. Reputable third-party testers include US Pharmacopoeia, NSF International, and ConsumerLab.com. Look for the organization's seal on the bottle.

If you have any concerns, consult your healthcare professional before starting a new supplement, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking prescription medications.

You can consume too much MCT oil

There is no maximum daily limit for MCT oil. However, a study found that 30 grams was the maximum safe dose of MCT oil to reduce exercise-related side effects. Another study recommends limiting daily food intake to 4-7 tablespoons per day spread throughout the day.

Additionally, if you rely heavily on MCT oil and neglect other sources of fat, you may be deficient in essential fatty acids.

MCT oil is still a saturated fat which can slightly increase triglycerides, so make sure you eat a balanced diet. Eating too much fat, especially saturated fat, and not enough carbohydrates, fiber, and protein can harm metabolic health, so consider MCT oil as part of your daily fat intake.

MCT oil side effects

MCT oil may cause digestive side effects such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, or bloating. To avoid these side effects, it may be helpful to start with a small amount and then increase the dose gradually. Also make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use. If you experience prolonged or severe side effects, stop using the supplement and consult your doctor.

brief overview

MCT oil has become an increasingly popular supplement, but is particularly beneficial for people with certain medical conditions, including drug-resistant epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, and fat malabsorption. It is effective due to its ability to be digested and absorbed by the body and produce ketone bodies. MCT oil is generally safe to consume and is found in some foods, but if you plan to take supplements, you should first consult with a health professional or nutritionist.

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more Health.com news!

Read the original article on Health.com.

5 scientific benefits of MCT oil