What the Heck is MCT and Should I Take it?

If you're health savvy, you may have heard the word MCT. It has become popular due to its outstanding health benefits.

In fact, some of the remarkable benefits of coconut oil are due to the presence of MCTs in them.

What are MCTs?

MCT is the short form for “Medium Chain Triglycerides,” a type of healthy saturated fat. It has one or more medium chain triglycerides which make them easy to digest in your system.

Research shows that MCTs offer many health benefits. Some of them include appetite control, better mood levels, weight loss and much more.

Unfortunately, we do not get enough of this nutrient in our daily diet. Thanks to the bad rap on saturated fats, many have shunned healthy fats for many decades.

This vital nutrient is missing in our food because many people now mistakenly believe that all saturated fats are dangerous. The result, a steep drop in the intake of healthy fats like MCTs.

5 Reasons Your Body Loves MCT

1. Excellent for weight loss

Your body does not store MCT as fat. Instead, the liver metabolizes it to release energy for daily activities.

Studies show that the body absorbs MCTs faster, and converts them to fuel. An analysis of 13 studies found that MCTs were more effective in reducing body weight and body fat.

2. Appetite control

MCTs help control appetite, an essential factor in weight loss. Studies show that MCTs have a high satiety value, which keeps hunger away.

3. Good for your heart

MCT oils are anti-inflammatory and antioxidants that promote heart health.

A study reported that MCTs help prevent high cholesterol, hypertension, and abdominal obesity. All these factors lower the risk of heart disease and promote heart health.

4. Better cognitive health

MCTs rapid digestion and satiating effects benefit brain function.

Including MCT-rich foods help supply ketones, a type of fat. Ketones cross the blood-brain barrier with ease. They are the preferred source of energy for the brain.  Research shows MCTs dictate improved mood levels and clarity of thoughts.

5. Enhances gut health

MCTs are antibacterial and combat harmful bacteria and support gut bacteria.

When used as part of a regular diet, MCTs improve gut health over time. The best thing about MCTs is that they kill harmful bacteria without harming the good.

Also, medium chain fats show stronger antibacterial agents. This effect was in comparison with long chain fats when added to milk and products.

So, if you find a product with MCT as one of the ingredients go for it.

Food sources of MCTs 

• Grass-fed butter & Cheese
• Coconut oil
• Full-fat yogurt

Remember, MCT's are not a miracle on their own. They give the most benefit as part of a healthy diet. If you're serious about losing weight, improving your gut and brain health, make MCT's a part of your diet.

If you're a chocolate lover who wants to get more MCT's in your diet then you'll be excited to know that my raw cacao superfood blend, Cacao Bliss, offers a yummy way to get your daily MCT oils.

P.S. Please help me get the word out about MCT by sharing this article and I'd love to hear from you in the comments below. Have you used MCT before?