It is not surprising MCTs have become a staple of many popular diets. Like other supplements, there are several confusions about vanilla MCT oil powder. Here we have tried to dispel misinformation by providing essential facts of MCT oil powder.
Table of Contents
Natural Sources of MCTs
MCT is not an artificial ingredient. There are several natural sources of MCTs, which include:
- Coconut oil — it contains more than 60% MCTs.
- Palm kernel oil — it has more than 50% MCTs.
- Dairy products — it consists of 10–12% MCTs.
Coconut oil has 50% lauric acid (C12), which makes it the best source of fatty acids. However, coconut oil is also the least effective MCT supplements when it comes to increasing ketone levels. That doesn’t mean you can get all benefits of MCTs by consuming any of these foods. You need to eat an unhealthy amount of coconut, palm kernel, or dairy products to get benefits offered by one tablespoon of high-quality MCT oil.
Different Types of MCTs
There are several types of MCTs, which include:
- Caproic Acid (C6)
- Caprylic Acid (C8)
- Capric Acid (C10)
- Lauric Acid (C12)
Each MCT mentioned above has different characteristics and taste. Here are some facts about them.
- MCT oil supplements that have a higher concentration of caproic acid create a tingle in your throat. These supplements do not taste good. However, they are absorbed and converted into ketones more quickly than other MCTs.
- Caprylic Acid has excellent anti-microbial properties that maintain gut health. This MCT has two extra carbons that slow down processing (in the body) than Caproic Acid.
- Lauric acid forms 50% of the fatty acids in coconut oil. Unlike other MCTs, lauric acid has a slower metabolism process. It may raise cholesterol levels like long-chain fatty acids.
What Are Different Forms of MCTs Available for Consumption?
MCTs are available in two forms- MCT oil and MCT powder. The MCT powder is prepared by evaporating the moisture in the particles with hot air. For completing the spray drying process, it is bound to a carrier powder. MCT oil powder is available in various flavors, including vanilla MCT oil powder.
What Is Better- MCT Oil or MCT Powder?
Both forms of MCTs are active and also have some disadvantages. Here are the benefits of MCT in both types.
Benefits of MCT Powder
- MCT powder is easy to mix in recipes and also easier on the digestive system
- It can be packed and carried easily
- Offers additional benefits depending on the other ingredients used in the mix or carrier powder
Benefits of MCT oil
- It is easily available
- Can be consumed as a substitute to oil
- Is comparatively cheaper
Is MCT Supplement a Good Addition to a Healthy Diet?
Most diets restrict the intake of carbs, which forces the body to burn fat to produce ketones for fuel. This can cause physical fatigue or mental fogginess. MCT provides the body with an alternative energy source, and the person is less likely to feel fatigued. MCTs also aid in weight loss and improve memory and brain function.
These are some of the facts that show MCT supplements can be your shining armor in various diets and increase the energy levels that make you feel better.