There are many paths to weight management, including regular exercise, a healthy diet and nutritional supplementation. If you want to burn unwanted fat and sustain energy, taking a supplement of MCT oil may be a good option.
MCT oil has become popular in the realm of sports nutrition for its potential support of metabolic function, weight management, and fuel for use as quick energy. Learn more about why MCT oil is the new go-to supplement.
Some Fats are Good for You
Our bodies are 70% water, which means our digestive systems have to work hard to absorb and metabolize most fats, which are not very water soluble. Contrary to popular belief, not all fats are created equal. In reality, the human body processes various fats differently. It converts and stores excess calories as body fat from certain types of foods more easily than others.
LCTs (long chain triglycerides), which are found in foods like butter, heavy whipping cream or mayonnaise, are harder to digest, and excess calories are more commonly stored as body fat. MCTs (medium chain triglycerides) are considered saturated fats, but unlike other saturated fats, which are typically deemed “unhealthy,” MCT molecules are smaller, more soluble in water and require fewer enzymes for absorption. That means they are more easily and rapidly digested than other forms of fats, making MCTs your body’s allies rather than adversaries.
MCT oil has naturally occurring fatty acids, which appear as yellow, translucent, odorless substances and can be found in a variety of animal and vegetable fats. They are most prevalent in coconut oil and palm kernel oil, which are commonly used for cooking, or in snack foods, baked goods and nondairy creamers. You can even use MCT oil as a substitute for conventional oils in salad dressings or sauces as a source of beneficial fatty acids.
According to Dr. Laurie Cullen at the Women’s Institute, when MCT oil is metabolized in the body, it behaves more like a carbohydrate than a fat. During the digestive process, instead of passing through the lymphatic system, the liver processes MCTs. Some MCTs are metabolized into ketones and used as fuel for muscles. Others are converted into ATP, providing energy for cellular functions. This is especially helpful for athletes or anyone who need a quick source of energy. (source)
Is MCT Oil Right for Me?
The potential benefits of MCT oil include providing quick energy, promoting a thermogenic effect for optimal metabolic function, and supporting a healthy body composition. Some scientists believe your body weight and body temperature are regulated around a set point, relative to each other. Thermogenics may shift this balance, potentially supporting more effective metabolic function, thereby promoting lean body tissue.
Research suggests that substituting MCT oil for other fats in a healthy diet in conjunction with exercise may help promote healthy weight and body composition. However, everyone’s body has unique nutritional needs, so it is always a good idea to check with your physician before starting a new dietary supplement regimen.
Nick Bitz, ND, chief scientific officer at Youtheory, recommends MCT for athletes who need quick cellular energy, for people who may have digestive issues, or for active, health-minded people. In general, Bitz says, coconut oil is a good source for MCT, since it contains about 50% MCTs. Use it in smoothies or while cooking to get the nutrients you need. Or, opt for a dietary supplement of MCT oil to experience the potential benefits. (source)
MCT Oil Supplementation
At Natural Healthy Concepts, we offer a wide selection of MCT oil products, including liquid MCT oil, dietary supplements and organic coconut oil for weight management and energy support.
MCT Oil 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 32 oz
Fair Trade Organic Coconut Oil, Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps, 14 oz
MCT Oil 1000mg, NOW Foods, 150 Softgels
Trust Your Gut
As part of a healthy diet, MCT oil may help support a feeling of fullness and promote your body’s metabolic rate. When the body burns more calories, it produces energy and is less likely to store excess calories as body fat. We could all use more energy, and many of us would love the ability to better manage our weight. Try our wide selection of MCT oil products to find the best one to help you meet your natural health goals.
Have you used MCT oil for weight management or energy support? We’d love to hear your story in the comments below!
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Leslie Benson writes regularly about nutrition and healthy living for Natural Healthy Concepts. Visit NHC.com today to browse a wide selection of vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements.
