Distinguishing Natural Fats: Coconut Oil vs MCT Oil (Medium Chain Triglycerides)

It's no secret that both MCT and coconut oil have become quite popular lately. They're both keto-friendly and have proven brain health benefits*, but what's the difference? And what does science say? Because while they do share some similarities, coconut oil and MCT oil are not the same.

Here's a quick breakdown:

Source and composition.

MCT oil: It contains 100% medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These saturated fats are found in many foods, including palm oil, coconut oil, and dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and milk). MCT oil predominantly contains two types of medium-chain fatty acids: caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10).

Coconut oil: It's extracted from copra, the kernel or meat of coconuts and the richest natural source of MCTs. But it also contains long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) and unsaturated fats. The primary MCT in coconut oil is lauric acid (C12), which is about 50% of its fatty acid content.

Uses.

MCT oil: Due to its concentrated nature, it's typically used as a dietary supplement, especially in ketogenic diets. It can also be added for those suffering with fat malabsorption issues.

Coconut oil: Has a much wider range of uses, from cooking and baking to skin and hair care.

Digestion and absorption.

MCT oil: MCTs are more rapidly digested and absorbed than longer-chain fats.¹ This means they can be an immediate source of energy that is quickly absorbed and turned into ketones. Plus, MCTs are less likely to be stored as fat.*

Coconut oil: While still rich in medium-chain triglycerides, the existence of other fats means its digestion and absorption pattern might be different from pure MCT oil.

Potential health benefits.

MCT oil: Ongoing research outlines quite a lot of potential for MCT oil. According to studies, MCT oil may benefit cognitive function, energy provision, and even weight management. (This can significantly benefit people following a low-carb diet, like keto).^2,3 Ketones produced from MCTs may give your brain a nice, quick energy boost when the glucose supply is low. Another good example is this 2018 study that tested the effect of MCT nootropics in individuals with progressive memory loss and cognitive decline. The results showed that taking 30g of MCTs daily may improve their overall brain energy status.*⁴

Coconut oil: Apart from its MCT content, coconut oil has been traditionally used for its antimicrobial benefits (largely due to lauric acid) and potential effects on skin and hair health.*

The takeaway.

At first glance, MCT oil and coconut oil might seem similar - both are derived from coconuts, after all. In reality, they have unique characteristics and uses.

MCT oil is a concentrated source of medium-chain triglycerides, boasting a 100% MCT content.

This refinement sets it apart from coconut oil, which, while being the richest natural source of MCTs (54% MCTs - 5% Capric Acid, 7% Caprylic Acid, and 42% Lauric Acid), also contains long-chain triglycerides.

And here's the real kicker. The difference that prompted our decision to use MCT oil in our capsules. It was not arbitrary. It was not random. It was based on solid science... and facts.

MCTs can be absorbed and utilized by the body without the need for additional energy. MCT oil can be assimilated more rapidly and efficiently, offering immediate benefits without burdening the digestive system. This efficiency matters to us when it comes down to nutrient delivery. Why? Because our innovative approach involves suspending microbeads in MCT oil within a sophisticated capsule.*

We can leverage MCT oil's unique properties to enhance the bioavailability and effectiveness of the encapsulated nutrients - quickly, efficiently, and without unnecessary strain on the body.*