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MCT oil can be used as a quick energy source and may support weight loss. It may also fight bacterial growth and aid in managing certain neurological conditions.

MCT oil is a supplement that has become popular among athletes and body builders. The popularity of coconut oil, which contains some MCTs, has contributed to its use.

This processed oil product is sourced from coconut oil or palm kernel oil. MCTs are also found in other foods, such as dairy products (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).

As the name suggests, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil contains medium-length chains of fats called triglycerides. Due to their shorter length, MCTs are digested faster than longer-chain fatty acids found in many other foods.

Four main types of medium-chain fatty acids exist (3Trusted Source): 

• lauric acid
• caproic acid
• caprylic acid
• capric acid

In some cases, the specific types have unique benefits.

MCT oil is almost entirely caprylic and capric acid (3Trusted Source).

Here are 7 science-backed benefits you can get from adding MCT oil to your diet.

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MCT oil could potentially help people consume fewer calories across the day.

MCT oil has about 10% fewer calories than long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), which are found in foods such as olive oil, nuts, and avocados (4Trusted Source, 5).

An analysis of 29 studies found an association between MCTs and lower calorie intake. People consuming MCTs had a moderately lower calorie intake when compared to people consuming LCTs (6Trusted Source).

Some studies suggest that MCT oil could promote the release of two hormones that help people feel full when eating: peptide YY and leptin. However, when the results of 29 studies were analyzed, researchers found no link between MCT and appetite-related hormones (6Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source).

Even so, one study found that people taking 2 tablespoons of MCT oil as part of their breakfast ended up eating less food for lunch compared to those taking coconut oil (8).

The reason for this potential effect isn’t clear. Some people believe that MCT oil can help you feel fuller or reduce your appetite, which could lead to eating less. But across studies, there’s little evidence to suggest that taking MCTs reduces your appetite (6Trusted Source).

Future studies may help to reveal the relationship between MCT and calorie reduction.

SUMMARYMCT oil has been linked to lower calorie intake, which could help with weight management. However, more research is needed.

Some older studies showed that taking MCT oil could help reduce body weight and waist circumference. Researchers reported that it could help prevent obesity (9Trusted Source, 10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source). 

Note that some of these studies don’t take other factors into account, such as activity levels and other calorie consumption. 

A review of 13 randomized controlled trials found that MCTs supported modest weight loss, fat loss, and reduced body size. But the authors commented that many of the studies were of questionable quality, and the results could be influenced by industry funding (12Trusted Source). 

Another review of 11 trials made very similar conclusions (13Trusted Source).

Your body can convert MCTs into ketones, which provide a fat-based source of energy for the body when carbohydrate intake is low (14Trusted Source). 

If you’re following a ketogenic diet, taking MCT oil could possibly help you stay in the fat-burning state known as ketosis. Ketogenic diets are very low in carbs and high in fat. While some studies suggest this diet can aid weight loss, the long-term effects of following a ketogenic diet are not known (15Trusted Source, 16Trusted Source, 17Trusted Source).

SUMMARYMCT oil may support weight loss and fat loss. High-quality research is needed to determine its efficacy.

The body absorbs MCTs more rapidly than long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), which contain more carbons in their fatty acid chains (18).

Due to their shorter chain length, MCTs travel more quickly from the gut to the liver and do not require bile to break down like longer-chain fats do (18).

In the liver, the fats are broken down to be either used as fuel or stored as body fat. Since MCTs easily enter your bloodstream without being broken down, they can be used as an immediate source of energy (18, 19Trusted Source).

When you’re on a ketogenic diet, MCTs can also be converted into ketones in the liver. These ketones can pass through your blood-brain barrier, making them a source of energy for your brain cells.

SUMMARYMCT oil is easily absorbed and transported throughout the body. It can be used as an instant source of energy or can be converted into ketones.

Researchers have examined whether MCT oil could help you burn fat instead of carbs during exercise.

One older study found that athletes who took 6 grams or about 1.5 teaspoons of MCTs with food before cycling used more fat instead of carbs for energy, compared to those taking LCTs. However, the difference was not significant (20Trusted Source).

In a randomly controlled trial, males who consumed MCTs burned more fat during exercise, but female participants did not (21Trusted Source).

Overall, most studies have not shown significant changes in the body’s use of fat after taking MCTs. (22Trusted Source)

While MCTs might potentially help increase fat burning during exercise, study results are mixed as to whether MCT oil can help you exercise better (23Trusted Source).

The results of an animal study suggest that a MCT-rich diet may not impair exercise performance, unlike a LCT-rich diet, which may worsen exercise performance (24Trusted Source).

However, a review of 13 human studies found that MCT offered minimal or no benefits for exercise. MCT supplementation had no significant effects on energy use in the body or other markers of exercise performance (25Trusted Source). 

SUMMARYMCT oil could potentially increase fat burning and reduce the need for carbs during exercise, but evidence is mixed. It’s also unclear whether this could translate to improved exercise performance.

Studies have shown that MCT oil and a ketogenic diet may help manage conditions such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and autism (26).

It’s important to remember that MCTs are not a replacement for prescription medications or medical treatments. You shouldn’t start taking any supplements without speaking with your doctor first.

While the ketogenic diet has gained popularity among people wishing to lose weight, it was first introduced as a way of managing epilepsy.

Researchers found that fasting increases ketone production and that this may reduce the frequency of epileptic seizures (27Trusted Source).

Since MCTs can be converted into ketones, they may be beneficial in managing epilepsy.

While there are few human studies examining MCTs and epilepsy, in-vitro and animal studies suggest promising results (28Trusted Source). 

One small study included adults with epilepsy that did not respond well to medication. As a group, the participants had 42% fewer seizures when supplementing with MCT oil for 3 months. But the authors caution that more studies are needed (29Trusted Source).

The type of MCT may be important. An in-vitro study suggested that the MCT capric acid had more potent effects on seizure control than a widespread anti-epileptic drug (30Trusted Source).

Another study in rats found that the same MCT blocked receptors in the brain that cause seizures, though more human studies are needed (31Trusted Source).

If you’re considering a ketogenic diet or MCT oil to help manage your epilepsy, talk to your doctor first.

In addition, it’s important to note that a ketogenic diet is not for everyone and can be challenging to follow long term (32Trusted Source). 

Alzheimer’s disease impairs your brain’s ability to use sugar (33Trusted Source).

A ketogenic diet offers an alternative energy source: ketones. 

This provides fuel for your brain, and could allow brain cells to survive better with Alzheimer’s (26).

Researchers found that prioritizing MCTs as the source of fat in a ketogenic diet allows people to eat more carbs than a standard ketogenic diet, while still effectively producing ketones. Eating more carbs can make the diet easier to follow over time (26).

Plus, one study found that taking MCTs for 30 days improved cognition in people with Alzheimer’s disease with a certain gene type, specifically APOE ɛ4-negative (34Trusted Source).

In another study, people with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease saw increased ketone use in their brains when they took 30 grams of MCT supplements daily. Their brains used ketones at a similar rate as healthy young adults taking MCTs (35Trusted Source). 

Other researchers have proposed that 20 to 70 grams of supplemental MCTs that include caprylic and capric acid could modestly improve the symptoms of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s (33Trusted Source).

A meta-analysis of 12 studies indicated that MCTs may promote improved cognition with Alzheimer’s disease, but stronger evidence is needed (36Trusted Source)

Overall, the use of MCT oil in Alzheimer’s disease shows some promise, but longer and larger scale studies are needed.

There is limited evidence suggesting that MCT oil may help children manage autistic characteristics.

When considering this research, it’s important to keep in mind that many autistic people do not support therapies aimed at making people appear “less autistic” (37).

One preliminary study found that a ketogenic and gluten-free diet with MCTs substantially lowered behaviors associated with autism. This change was seen in 6 of the 15 children involved in the study (38).

A handful of small studies have suggested some potential for ketogenic diets with or without MCTs to lower autistic behaviors. However, more research is needed before conclusions can be made. It’s currently not known if this type of diet is safe or has any therapeutic benefits for autistic children (39Trusted Source, 40Trusted Source).

What is known is that placing a child on a restrictive diet carries risks, including malnutrition and delayed growth (41). 

Plus, sensory issues can cause some autistic people to eat a limited diet of preferred foods. Adding further restrictions to the diet may not be appropriate and could lead to nutritional deficiencies (41).

If you’re considering dietary changes or supplements for your child, always talk with your doctor first.

SUMMARYMCT oil may improve brain function, which could have benefits for people with epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and autism. However, you shouldn’t start supplements without talking with your doctor first.

MCTs have been shown to have antimicrobial and antifungal effects (42Trusted Source, 43Trusted Source, 44).

Some researchers suggest it may have certain anti-inflammatory effects, which could contribute to this outcome, but more studies are needed. (45Trusted Source). 

Coconut oil, which contains numerous MCTs, has been shown in an older in-vitro study to reduce the growth of Candida albicans by 25%. This is a common yeast that can cause thrush and various skin infections (46Trusted Source).

Another small study found that MCTs reduced Candida infections in infants born prematurely (47Trusted Source).

An in-vitro study also showed that coconut oil reduced the growth of a disease-causing bacteria called Clostridium difficile (43Trusted Source).

Coconut oil’s ability to reduce yeast and bacterial growth may be due to the caprylic, capric, and lauric acid in MCTs (43Trusted Source).

In a test-tube study, virgin coconut oil slowed the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and helped immune cells destroy the bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus causes skin infections and other potentially-serious conditions (48Trusted Source)

However, note that most of the research on MCTs and immune support has been conducted via in-vitro or animal studies. High-quality human studies are needed before stronger conclusions can be made.

SUMMARYMCT oil contains fatty acids that have been shown to reduce the growth of yeast and bacteria. Overall, MCTs may have a variety of antimicrobial and antifungal effects, though more research is needed.

Some older studies suggest that MCT oil may also have benefits for those with diabetes and metabolic syndrome (49Trusted Source, 50). 

One small study from 2007 followed 40 people with diabetes. Those who consumed MCT oil daily saw reductions in body weight, waist circumference, and insulin resistance, compared to those taking corn oil containing LCTs (34Trusted Source).

Newer studies on MCTs and blood sugar have shown mixed results.

A review of 18 studies examined the effects of coconut oil, which is high in MCTs. Eating a meal containing coconut oil may promote a small improvement in after-meal blood sugar control (51Trusted Source). 

However, long-term use of coconut oil had the opposite effect — it was shown to increase insulin resistance, which means your body can’t control blood sugar as well (51Trusted Source).

A randomized controlled trial followed people with metabolic syndrome after 4 weeks of daily coconut oil consumption. Participants had significantly lower fasting blood sugar and triglycerides, and higher “good” HDL cholesterol. But they also had higher “bad” LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol (52Trusted Source).

While MCTs many be beneficial for blood sugar under some circumstances, more evidence is needed to draw strong conclusions.

SUMMARYIn some studies, MCT appears to improve blood sugar control, but evidence also suggests it could increase insulin resistance. More research is needed to draw strong conclusions.

source: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mct-oil-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_8

We use Dolce Superfoods Organic Cacao powder 

Botanical Name: Theobroma cacao (pronounce kah-kow)
From Arriba Criollo Beans
Country of Origin: Peru

Qualities: Cacao powder has the lowest fat content compared to all other cacao products. Cacao is believed to contain high amounts of antioxidants such as flavonoids, and many other nutrients and minerals like stearic and oleic fatty acid, anandamide (the bliss chemical), theobromine, manganese, zinc, copper, sulfur, PEA, and tryptophan.

 The list of cacao’s acclaimed health benefits is lengthy and includes anti-inflammatory and heart-protective properties, calming hormones, restoration of feelings of well-being, increased energy, fighting chronic fatigue, anti-aging, and appetite-suppressing properties, improved kidney and cognitive functions, skin and tooth protection, and more. No surprise the Incas considered cacao to the “drink of the gods” which gave rise to the scientific name of the cacao tree Theobroma cacao, theo, meaning god, and broma meaning drink. Cacao has been cultivated in Ecuador since the 17th century and was the main product of export up until the 1920s.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the CFIA or FDA. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This product has been packaged in the same facility as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, and other potential allergens.

source: https://essentialorganicingredients.com/products/organic-cacao-powder?variant=22301825335414

Also called date honey or silan, date syrup can be used in addition to or instead of honey or maple syrup, and as a substitute for refined sugar in baked goods. Each serving of date syrup contains magnesium, potassium, amino acids, antioxidants and other trace minerals.

Date syrup has a sweet taste and a strong flavor. More precisely, it has a sweet caramel-like taste with a hint of vanilla. It also has a strong pleasant flavor comparable to the taste and smell of other sweeteners.

Date syrup does more than just sweetening baked goods and sauces. In baked cookies and cakes, you are more likely to feel its flavor comparable to chocolate. In non-bake applications, you may still recognize its taste and flavor.

Date syrup benefits are rooted in the nutrients they carry. As mentioned before, it packs a punch of nutrients. That is because it is composed of liquidized dates. It is made by turning dates in their entirety into a liquid. The process is a physical transformation. This means date syrup retains all the goodness of raw dates. These include minerals (copper, magnesium, potassium, iron) , vitamins (B6, VA, VK, etc.), protein (2%), fiber and antioxidants.

Some of the scientifically approved nutritional and health benefits of dates include the following:

• Date syrup provides energy needed for daily activities.
• It may help improve brain function.
• It may promote natural labor.
• Its fiber may promote healthy digestion.
• Its antioxidants provide protection against free radicals.

There are a couple of natural sweeteners competing with date syrup in food applications. The most common sweetener is sugar. Date syrup is much healthier than sugar which is a refined form of sucrose. Powdered sugar is sometimes called confectioners’ sugar which is granulated sugar mixed with a small amount of cornstarch to prevent caking or forming lumps. There are no minerals, vitamins or fiber in sugar.

For vegans seeking a plant-based alternative, date syrup takes the crown as the optimal replacement for honey. Derived from dates, this syrup offers a wide array of nutrients, including fiber, iron, potassium, B vitamins, copper, and magnesium. It aligns perfectly with ketogenic and gluten-free diets, making it a versatile and delectable sweetener for all dietary journeys.

Date syrup is used where sugar is banned, for example in special diets such as diabetes, sports or endurance diets, where we need to keep our sugar amounts in check. Date syrup also contains fiber which keeps the diabetics full for a longer time. In addition, it has a lower glycemic index, which is a good indication of food safety for people suffering from diabetes. Because it takes more time to digest in the body, it does not cause blood sugar spikes after consumption.

Date syrup benefits lend themselves pretty well to all types of cooking and baking. It is used for home purposes and for commercial purposes. There are no limitations on how we apply it within the two concepts. Date syrup recipes can work for cooking and baking at home as well as cooking and baking in business settings.

Consumers want a sugar-substitute that is safe, healthy, versatile and accessible. Date syrup can fulfill that requirement and beyond. It not only takes the sugar place in recipes, but also adds variety to them. Whether you make cakes and cookies, sip it with drinks, or drizzle it over your afternoon ice creams, it never stops sweetening your day.

source: https://ratinkhosh.com/date-syrup-benefits/