What is MCT oil?
MCT oils are healthy medium chain fats (from Medium Chain Triglycerides) extracted from the flesh of coconuts. Thus, it is not a regular coconut oil, which has a different fatty acid composition. The most valuable fats are considered to be caprylic acid (referred to as C8) and capric acid (C10). These are the more digestible fats and have many uses in health and sports nutrition.
Effects of MCT oils
The use of MCT coconut oils is associated with several health benefits. MCT oils can:
- Promote heart health (prevention of cardiovascular disease),
- improve cognitive brain function,
- support digestion and restore the gut microbiome,
- alleviate symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or epilepsy.
In addition, they are increasingly popular as sports nutrition supplement. Thanks to their fast and easy absorption, MCT fats (C6‑C10) act as an immediate source of energy - they are immediately processed by the liver and are not stored like conventional fats. They also affect the production of lactate, which ensures greater athletic endurance.
They also find use in reduction diets, as they promote thermogenesis. They also have their place among keto diet advocates, as they help induce a state of ketosis.
Use of MCT oils
Thanks to their neutral taste and aroma, they have countless possible uses in the kitchen in salads, dressings or smoothies. In a hot kitchen, the smoke point of around 160 °C should be taken into account. The recommended dose is 10‑15 ml (2‑3 tablespoons) per day. In the beginning it is better to use lower doses as MCT oils can be laxative.