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Here's what you need to know about MCT oil. Mary West/Unsplash (CC0)

If you are in the know when it comes to the latest health trends, chances are, you’ve already heard of MCT oil. But what is it? What are its benefits?

"MCT" in MCT oil stands for “medium-chain triglycerides,” which is a type of fat. Usually derived from coconut or palm kernel oil, MCT is used by those who are either trying to lose weight or boost their endurance.

But what makes MCT so different? To understand that, you should first know that there are three kinds of fatty acids: short-chain, medium-chain and long-chain. MCT belongs in the medium-chain, meaning it is made up of six to 12 carbon atoms.

Because of this, MCT is processed differently, used straight away and is less likely to be stored as fat. This principle is the basis behind the ketogenic diet, which is an effective way to lose weight.

Here are six science-backed MCT oil benefits you should know:

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MCT oil provides a number of health benefits, including weight loss and better memory function. Mary West/Unsplash (CC0)

Helps with Weight Loss/Maintenance – According to a number of studies, MCT oil is effective in increasing satiety and raising your metabolic rate, which can help you lose weight. Studies also show that it’s more effective when taken in a ketogenic diet.

Protects Heart Health – MCT provides protection for cardiovascular health, according to a 2018 study. This is because MCT is anti-inflammatory.

Improves Memory Function – Our brains are largely made up of fatty acids, so it makes sense that MCT can help improve its performance. A study has shown that using MCTs can help improve memory problems for people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Lowers Blood Sugar Levels – MCT can also be beneficial for diabetics, as a 2007 study revealed that it can improve insulin resistance, which can help lower blood sugar levels and manage diabetes better.

Good for the Gut – MCT has been well-studied and documented for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Per studies, MCT can provide a positive effect to your gut health by stimulating good bacteria and reducing the growth of bad bacteria.

Improve Athletic Endurance – If you enjoy working out or simply being active, MCT can help your performance. Studies have revealed that it supports performance in moderate- and high-intensity exercises by reducing lactate levels (an indirect marker of fatigue within exercising muscles).

Best MCT Oil Products to Try Today

Now that you know the potential of MCT oil and what it can do for your health, here are some of our recommend products that you can easily get on Amazon:

1. Bulletproof Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil
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Extracted from coconut oil and free from palm oil, Bulletproof’s famous Brain Octane Oil is one of the best choices if you’re looking for pure MCT oil that’s free from additives. It’s the same MCT oil used in the famous bulletproof coffee, which is known to provide positive mental and physical effects in addition to keeping you energized.

2. Sports Research Keto MCT Oil from Organic Coconuts
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If you want to stock up on MCT oil, you can’t go wrong with this 32-ounce bottle of MCT oil by Sports Research. Made from 100% non-GMO coconuts, this unflavored MCT oil blends perfectly with coffee and shakes. It’s also vegan and dairy-free.

3. Perfect Keto MCT Oil C8 Powder, Chocolate
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If you prefer MCT in flavored powder form for more taste, then you’ll love this MCT Oil Powder by Perfect Keto. Available in a number of flavors (in this case, chocolate), it contains no fillers, corn starch or fiber additives that can be found in other powders, making it healthier.

4. Zeal Naturals Pure MCT Oil Capsules (360 Softgels | 3000mg)
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For those who would rather take MCT in capsule form, then try these soft gels. Featuring unrefined coconut MCT oil, these Pure MCT oil soft gel capsules by Zeal Naturals are the perfect brain fuel to help you get through the day.

5. Nutiva Organic MCT Oil, Unflavored
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When it comes to organic products, you can’t go wrong with one of the most trusted health brands: Nutiva. Their high-quality MCT oil is a mixture of C8, C10 and C12. It also has a light coconut scent and flavor, making it perfect for shakes and coffee.

6. Natural Force Organic MCT oil
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Whether you’re trying to enhance your focus, increase your energy or lose some weight, you can’t go wrong with Natural Force Organic MCT oil. Made from cold pressed virgin coconut oil, this MCT oil is certified keto, paleo, kosher, vegan and non-GMO.

7. Nature's Way MCT Oil
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With modern life being so busy, our bodies and brains have a lot to keep up with. Luckily, Nature’s Way MCT Oil is here to give you an extra boost daily. Purely sourced from coconuts, this organic MCT oil is keto and paleo-friendly to ensure you'll stick to your diet.

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