What Is MCT Oil?
MCT oil is derived from coconut and palm oil and stands for “medium-chain triglycerides” which are naturally occurring fatty acids. They’re easily digested, rapidly used as energy and metabolized quickly in the liver without being stored as fat. This super-oil has also been shown to improve cognitive function, because it increases the body’s production of ketones, which are used as fuel for the brain. Plus, along with fat-burning and brain power, MCT oil can boost the immune system and help fight bacterial, fungal and viral infections.
MCT Oil Versus Coconut Oil: What’s The Difference?
MCT oil is derived from coconut (and palm) oil. Coconut oil contains about 60% medium-chain fatty acids, while these make up 100% of MCT oil. The latter is like a very concentrated version of the former — about six times stronger, but without the coconut flavor (MCT is virtually tasteless).
How is MCT Oil different from other oils?
MCT’s are metabolized differently. When consumed, they are broken down into individual fatty acids in the stomach, before being released into the intestinal tract. Therefore, they do not need pancreatic digestive enzymes or bile for digestion and put little strain on the enzymatic and digestive systems of the body. Since no further digestion is required, the individual medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) are immediately absorbed into the portal vein and channeled directly to the liver.
In the liver, MCFAs are used preferentially as a source of fuel to produce energy. They act as a more efficient source of fuel than glucose, the body’s normal energy source. Consequently, MCFAs do not circulate in the bloodstream to the degree that other fats do. As a result, they are much less likely to be incorporated into fat cells and do not collect in artery walls or contribute to hardening of the arteries. MCFAs are utilized primarily by the body to produce energy rather than body fat or arterial plaque.
How Much Should I Use?
Start with 1 teaspoon and work your way up to 1 tablespoon. Too much MCT oil at once has been known to cause some digestive distress.
What are the benefits of using MCT Oil?
- Thermogenic effect which encourages a healthy metabolism
- Weight loss
- May help encourage blood sugar balance
- Generates long-lasting and subtle energy
- Helps improve digestion
- Strengthens the immune system
- Helps cleanse and detoxify the body
- May help increase your good cholesterol (HDL)
Does it taste like coconut?
No, it is tasteless and odorless.
How do I take or use MCT Oil?
- Drink it straight
- Drizzle on anything
- Add to cold or hot drinks
- Add to sauces, dressings and marinades
- Add to smoothies or protein shakes
- Cook with it
Perfect Scrambled Energy Eggs Á La Katherine
Nutritionally balanced for weight loss, energy and satiety
(serves one)
- 1 egg
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tsp MCT oil
- 1 tsp old-fashioned oats (GF options)
- Spinach (as much as you want)
- 1 tbsp. cheddar cheese (optional)
- Onions (as much as you want)
- Red cherry tomatoes (as many as you want)
- 1 piece of diced Canadian bacon (optional)
Directions
- Place the eggs, oats and cheese in a bowl and whisk until the eggs are broken up and mixture is thoroughly combined. Set aside.
- Heat the MCT oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the spinach, onions, tomatoes and diced Canadian bacon until tender.
- Add egg mixture, stirring occasionally until the eggs have reached your desired consistency.
- Season with pink salt, pepper or salsa.
Perfect Dressing/Marinade Á La Katherine
- 1/2 cup MCT oil
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp. Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tbsp. raw coconut vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp. lemon or lime juice
- 1 tsp. whole grain/dijon/regular mustard
- 1 tsp. honey/xylitol (optional)
- Optional seasonings/spices (garlic salt/powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, curry, pink salt and/or pepper)
- Optional herbs (rosemary, dill, basil, and/or thyme)
by Katherine Grey Crosswell, Weight Loss & Wellness Specialist. Katherine is available for consultation at the Westlake location.