Benefits of MCT
MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) contains medium-length chains of fats called triglycerides and is most commonly extracted from coconut oil, but is also found in other foods such as palm oil and dairy products.
Due to their shorter length, these fatty acids are more easily digested than other longer-chains found in many other foods meaning that they could be a good source of energy. Other potential benefits of MCT include weight loss and improving athletic performance.Read on to learn more about the benefits of MCT.
Promote weight loss
MCT has been shown to increase the release of peptide YY and leptin, which are two hormones that can promote the feeling of fullness which in turn can lead to consuming less food. One study found that taking 2 tablespoons of MCT oil at breakfast resulted in eating less food for lunch, which could be because of a lower rise in triglycerides and glucose.
Good source of energy
Due to their shorter length, MCTs are absorbed more rapidly by the body than long-chain triglycerides and do not require bile to break down. Fats are either used as fuel or stored as fat in the liver, and since MCTs can easily enter the cells without being broken down they can be used immediately as a source of energy.
Could improve athletic performance by reducing lactate buildup
Rising lactate levels can negatively impact exercise performance, and some studies found that athletes taking MCTs before cycling had lower lactate levels and found it easier to exercise compared to those taking LCTs. The study also found that taking MCT before exercise may help use more fat instead of carbs for energy.
Suggested use for MCT powder
Time Health’s Organic Coconut MCT Oil Powder is unflavoured, making it perfect for adding to coffees, smoothies and shakes. We suggest taking 10 grams per day, 1 heaped teaspoon equals 2.5 grams.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4192077/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0031938417302111
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12975635/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2874191/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27080715/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19436137/