Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) are saturated fatty acids that contain 6-12 carbons. MCT includes caproic acid (C6), caprylic acid (C8), capric acid (C10) and lauric acid (C12). It provides a quick source of energy unlike any other types of fat sources. It is directly transferred to the liver to be used as immediate energy or turned into ketones that would travel to the brain to serve as an alternative source of energy instead of glucose.
MCT Oil is produced through the fractionation process of extracted caprylic acid and capric acid. The oil would undergo deacidification, bleaching and deodorization. MCTs can be found significantly in coconut oil or palm kernel oil. MCT is less likely to be stored as fat as it is used more efficiently as energy.
Here are 4 reasons why you should incorporate Medella MCT Oil into your diet:
- Improve weight management
According to some research, weight loss and weight management can be achieved by consuming MCT Oil daily. MCT Oil provides an increase in energy expenditure and increased satiety. This produces a negative energy balance and a decrease in food intake, therefore lead to the prevention of weight gain. In a study done by Clegg (2010). it is shown that a longer MCT intervention would result in a decrease in body weight and waist circumference.
- Lower cholesterol levels
Some studies have proven that an MCT-rich diet may enhance cholesterol levels by raising the “good” HDL cholesterol and reducing the “bad” LDL cholesterol. This, in turn could lead to a healthier heart for individuals.
- Improve insulin sensitivity
MCT may play a potential role in patients whom suffer from diabetes. It may help improve insulin sensitivity or insulin resistance among type 2 diabetes patients. Some say that there may be a full reversal of insulin resistance in the whole body, especially in the skeletal muscle when it is affected by excess energy from a saturated LCFA rich diet.
- Enhance brain and memory function
It was mentioned in a study, that the absorption of glucose in a person with Alzheimer’s is poorer than a normal healthy person. However, the brain of an Alzheimer’s disease individual is able to take-up ketones as easily as a healthy individual. Thus, the consumption of MCT oil may improve the functions of the brain and memory to hinder the possibility of obtaining Alzheimer’s disease.
With Medella MCT Oil you can:
- Add to your morning cup of coffee or tea
- Use it in your salad dressing
- Add to your smoothies
- Consume it just as it is
We hope these information helps you understand Medella’s MCT Oil a little bit more! Got any more questions? Drop us a message 😊
References:
Acme-Hardestry, An Overview of MCT Oil and Medium-Chain Triglycerides, <https://www.acme-hardesty.com/overview-mct-oil-medium-chain-triglycerides/>.
Burgess, L 2017, ‘What are the possible benefits of MCT oil?’, Medical News Today, < https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320251>.
Clegg, ME 2010, ‘Medium-chain triglycerides are advantageous in promoting weight loss although not beneficial to exercise performance’, International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, vol. 61, no. 7, pp. 653-679, <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20367215/.
Lundsgaard, AM, Fritzen, AM, Sjoberg, KA, Kleinert, M, Richter, EA & Kiens, B 2021, ‘Small amounts of dietary medium-chain fatty acids protect against insulin resistance during caloric excess in humans’, Diabetes, vol. 70, no. 1, pp. 91-98, <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33122393/>.
St-Onge, M-P, Jones, PJH 2002, ‘Physiological effects of medium-chain triglycerides: Potential agents in the prevention of obesity’, The Journal of Nutrition, vol. 132, no. 3, pp. 329-332, < https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/132/3/329/4687297>.
Volpe, SL 2020, ‘Medium-chain triglycerides and health’, ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal, vol. 24, no. 1, pp. 35-36, < https://journals.lww.com/acsm-healthfitness/fulltext/2020/01000/medium_chain_triglycerides_and_health.10.aspx
Wong, C 2020, ‘Health benefits of medium-chain triglycerides’, Verywellfit, < https://www.verywellfit.com/the-benefits-of-medium-chain-triglycerides-90054>.
