As intermittent fasting and the keto diet continue to rise in popularity, the utilisation of MCT oil as a nutritional supplement has become ubiquitous. We've all encountered the headlines, tuned in to the podcasts, and heard our friends extolling the virtues of their bulletproof coffees.
But what exactly is MCT oil, and how can we harness its benefits effectively? Below, we delve into the fundamentals to ensure you can make the most of this potent supplement.
To start, What Exactly Does MCT Mean?
MCT stands for medium-chain triglyceride, representing medium-length chains of saturated fatty acids. These MCT's come in four common types: C6, C8, C10, and C12, denoting the number of carbon atoms in the chain, ranging from six to twelve.
C8 and C10 are highly desirable, serving as excellent sources of energy and promoting brain health. Conversely, C6 can taste bitter and may cause stomach discomfort, while C12, though classified as an MCT, is a longer fatty chain that's harder to metabolise compared to its shorter counterparts.
And What Makes MCT's So Beneficial?
Due to their shorter chain length, MCT's are more readily digested by the body compared to longer-chain fats. Rapidly absorbed by the liver, medium-chain fats like MCT's can potentially enhance metabolism, offering a readily accessible burst of nutrition. They're prized for their ability to be utilised as energy rather than being stored as fat, making them a staple in weight-loss regimens.
Refined from coconut oil, MCT oil comprises 100% MCT's, unlike unrefined coconut or palm oil, which contain approximately 50% MCT's.
The Benefits of MCT Oil:
MCT oil boasts a spectrum of health advantages and may aid in various conditions. While ongoing research continues to uncover its potential benefits, current findings support the use of MCT oil for:
Energy Boost: Thanks to their easy absorption and digestion, MCT's serve as a calorie-dense, fast-acting energy source, favoured by athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike for quick energy replenishment.
Weight Management: By promoting ketosis, a metabolic state where the body derives energy from fats rather than carbohydrates, MCT oil assists in weight regulation. Incorporating it into your diet can facilitate ketosis, associated with weight loss, increased energy, reduced appetite, and enhanced metabolism.
Cholesterol Control: Despite the counterintuitive notion of consuming oil to lower cholesterol, studies suggest that coconut oil, rich in MCT's, can reduce bad cholesterol and elevate good cholesterol levels, potentially mitigating the risk of heart disease.
How to Incorporate MCT Oil into Your Daily Routine:
The simplest method to integrate MCT oil into your lifestyle is by incorporating it into your diet and adding it to your favourite foods. This seamless integration can easily become part of your daily routine.
With its mild flavour, MCT oil blends effortlessly into a variety of dishes, including smoothies, shakes, salad dressings, marinades, homemade sauces, and of course, coffee.
MCT Oil and Coffee:
A popular choice is to add MCT oil to your morning coffee, providing a turbocharged version of your beloved beverage. Beyond the caffeine boost, MCT oil in coffee is purported to increase energy levels, enhance mental clarity, and induce a sense of satiety.
Some individuals use a frother to create a creamy, foamy concoction, while others simply stir in the oil. Whichever method you prefer, incorporating MCT oil into your coffee is an excellent way to elevate your morning ritual.
Embark on Your MCT Journey with Oz Blue Terpenes:
Whether you're exploring the keto diet or aiming to incorporate healthier oils into your regimen, MCT oil stands out as a valuable nutritional supplement. With a range of Australian-made MCT oils to choose from, including bespoke blends tailored to individual health needs, Oz Blue Terpenes offers an ideal starting point for your MCT journey.
