What is MCT Oil? Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT’s) are as the name suggests medium-length fatty acids, which places them betw...What is MCT Oil? Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT’s) are as the name suggests medium-length fatty acids, which places them between short-chain and long-chain fatty acids. The three types vary simply because of the different chain lengths. We have formulated a neutral-tasting powder from M...
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT’s) are as the name suggests medium-length fatty acids, which places them between short-chain and long-chain fatty acids. The three types vary simply because of the different chain lengths.
We have formulated a neutral-tasting powder from MCT oil. Our high-quality formula is free of palm oil and is sourced from 100% coconut oil.
Why take MCT Oil?
As you will read below, MCT oil is composed of medium-length fatty acids. This makes them very easy to absorb and utilise as energy. Therefore, they have been used as a supplement for endurance athletes, in the later stages of event, as they will be readily available. In other spheres, MCT oil is used as a supplement to fasting and ketogenic regimens. The line of thinking is that when fasting or following a ketogenic (very low carbohydrates) the body is primarily burning fat for energy. It is thought by some that by consuming MCT's during these dietary approaches, one can increase their fat-burning capabilities.
Which MCT Oil is best?
As always, make sure you are considering purchasing MCT oil from recommended and reputable brands. They should fully disclose the ingredients and how they produce their product. We recommended the BIG FOOD MCT oil shown below, which comes with all of these. In addition, BIG FOOD MCT oil is free of palm oil, which is often used in these supplements. Palm oil is a saturated fatty acid which if consumed in excess may not be beneficial for long-term health.
Key Health Aspects of MCT Oil Powder
Efficient Energy
The MCT’s are easily digested and enter directly into the liver, where they are then circulated to the cells, because of their smaller structure, they can cross the cell membranes easier. Once in the cell, they can now be used to produce energy.
Rapid Digestion
As mentioned, MCT’s are shorter in length, but also more soluble and are liquid at room temperature. What does this mean?
When MCT’s are ingested, they require less work and time to digest and absorb, compared to longer-chain fatty acids. This can help to reduce the contribution of carbohydrate storage (glycogen) which can help to delay the onset of fatigue.
Less storage of Fat
Because the MCTs are rapidly available to produce energy, they may not be stored well in the body, and so are commonly used as replacements for other types of fat. It is for this reason, that many supplement with MCT’s when cutting weight and body fat.
Essential Fatty Acids
Fats are essential nutrients, which means they are required for daily life. Apart from fats making up the majority of stored energy in the body, they are also essential for the absorption of micronutrients. Because of their high digestibility, MCT’s can, therefore, aid vitamin and mineral absorption in the intestine.
Sports and Performance
When exercising for an extended period of time, our storage of carbohydrates becomes depleted. If we continue to exercise, our bodies make a transition to break down fats for the energy needed. While these fatty acids are richer and produce more energy than carbohydrates, it is a slower process.
This is where MCT oil powder comes in! The smaller length chains are deposited directly in the bloodstream and are then broken down at a more rapid rate to provide energy. This is one of the reasons that many athletes are turning to MCT powder oil supplements.
