MCT oil is a supplement that has become popular among athletes and body builders. The popularity of coconut oil, high in MCTs, has contributed to its use.
As the name suggests, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil contains medium-length chains of fats called triglycerides. Due to their shorter length, MCTs are more easily digested than longer-chain fatty acids found in many other foods.
MCT oil is most commonly extracted from coconut oil, as more than 50% of the fat in coconut oil comes from MCTs. These fats are also found in other foods, such as palm oil and dairy products (1Trusted Source).
Four different types of MCTs exist, of which caprylic and capric acid are most commonly used for MCT oil. In some cases, these specific types have unique benefits.
Here are 7 science-backed benefits you can get from adding MCT oil to your diet.
- MCT oil could potentially promote weight loss
- MCT oil could be a good energy source
- MCT could reduce lactate buildup in athletes and help use fat for energy
- MCT could help manage epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and autism
- MCT contains fatty acids that fight yeast and bacterial growth
- MCT may reduce risk factors for heart disease
- MCT could help manage blood sugar levels
