MCT Oil – Serena Coan BSc, DipION, MBANT, CNHC

MCT oil is a medium-chain triglyceride oil derived from coconut oil, it can also be found in palm kernel oil, milk and butter. MCT oil is often used:

● To support weight management – as MCT oil is transferred straight to the liver from the gut to be used for energy and therefore less likely to be stored as fat.

● To improve endurance during a workout – as MCT oil is absorbed quickly for energy.

● To support normal cognitive function – MCTs can be converted into ketones by the liver, which can then pass through the blood-brain barrier and be used by the brain as an alternative energy source to glucose.

This is a common part of the ketogenic diet, where individuals reduce carbohydrate intake and focus on fat intake, achieving energy from this source as it is less likely to be stored as fat.

Sources
MCT oil and gut absorption
MCTs and weight management