4 Amazing Wellness Benefits of MCT Oil
The Internet has been non-stop buzzing about MCT oil and its beneficial properties—here's what you should know about the medium-chain fatty acid.
Last month, it was liquid chlorophyll—this month, MCT oil appears to be social media users' latest supplement of choice making waves for its abundance of health benefits. Commonly used among athletes to improve wellbeing and athletic performance, MCT oil is now infiltrating the mainstream, with influencers and everyday people alike raving about its advantages.
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are fats that are found in select foods such as coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Most of the fat in our diets consists of long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), which are typically stored as excess body fat. MCTs, on the other hand, have a shorter chain length and thus can be metabolized more quickly, making their way directly to the liver where they can then be used as energy rather than being stored as fat.
While research is still being done on the benefits of MCT oil, it has been shown the supplement may aid in weight loss, cognitive functioning, improved energy levels, and more. Read on to tap into the oil's plethora of benefits that have health gurus raving.
It can aid weight loss
Because it has been found that MCT oil consumption releases more peptide YY and leptin hormones than that of LCTs, eating foods rich in the oil may cause one to feel satiated more quickly and prevent overeating. Additionally, one 2008 study concluded that consumption of MCTs lead to increased energy expenditure in men and women than that of LCTs, suggesting consumption of the fatty acid may aid in weight management and enhancing weight loss.
Improved gut health
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, MCT oil is valuable in protecting one's gut health by promoting the growth of healthy gut bacteria. This in turn can play a role in reducing one's risk of chronic disease, as one study found that the oil reduced production of pro-inflammatory molecules and increased production of anti-inflammatory molecules.
It can reduce lactate buildup, improving excercise performance
The main culprit behind sore muscles and achy limbs after a workout, lactic acid buildup can make an intense gym session significantly less enjoyable. One study found that consuming MCT oil with a meal before a workout lowered participants' lactate levels, thus making it easier for them to push themselves as they excercised. Spare yourself any additional discomfort and get the most out of your workout by trying some MCT oil before your next gym session.
Increased Energy Levels
Because MCT oils are broken down into energy when the body has a shortage of glucose, consumption of them can lead to increased energy levels and cognitive functioning. This is also why MCT oil afficionados are also often on the keto diet, which restricts carbs and thus requires the body to always always turn to saturated fats like MCTs for energy rather than storing them. Try adding MCT oil to your diet to reinvigorate both your body and mind—bye bye brain fog!
