Is adding MCT oil to your coffee worth it? This has been growing in popularity lately as consumers seek new ways to get health benefits from their favorite morning pick-me-up. When paired with caffeine, it offers plenty of potential advantages, like increased energy production, improved digestion, and mental clarity. But how much truth is there behind these promises?
This article will explore the science behind MCT oil and coffee consumption so that you can make an informed decision on whether or not the combination might be right for you.
Table of Contents
What is MCT Oil?
MCT oil, or Medium-Chain Triglycerides, is a type of saturated fatty acid found in coconut and palm oil. The body more readily absorbs MCTs than other types of fat. This is because it doesn’t have to go through the digestive system like other foods.
MCT oil bypasses the digestive system entirely and is absorbed directly by the liver, then converted into energy. Hence, MCT oil has become popular among health enthusiasts due to its potential health benefits.
How Much MCT Can I Take Daily?
How much you should take is determined by factors including how well your body reacts and what you want to benefit from taking it. The recommended daily amount of MCT oil for an adult is two tablespoons. Therefore, 4–7 tablespoons per day is a healthy maximum.
It’s recommended to take those teaspoons at different times throughout the day. Consuming excessive quantities of it may cause unpleasant side effects.
To begin, it’s important to note that research on the optimal dosage of MCT oil needs to be improved. You may begin on a small amount and increase dosing from there. If you’ve never taken MCT oil before, it’s best to ease into it rather than overwhelm your body with a massive dose all at once. Instead, the dose should be gradually increased over a week.
The recommended MCT oil is based on how long you have taken the supplement. For example, you may start with 1 tsp and work up to 1 tbsp daily. Regular consumers can have as many as two tablespoons per day.
After that, your system should be used for MCTs. In the event of an overdose, it is recommended to reduce the dosage for a few days. There is a limit, but you will recognize it if and when you reach it.
Can You Mix MCT Oil with Coffee?
Yes, MCT oil can be added to coffee. MCTs in coffee have some interesting health benefits. It increases the body’s energy levels and improves athletic performance and mental clarity. MCT oil also helps with fat burning and weight loss since the body absorbs it more quickly than other fat types.
Why Should You Add MCT Oil to Coffee?
Coffee, a stimulant that gives energy, and MCT oil, which gives coffee an additional dosage of energy, make this combination a great “elixir” to drink in the morning.
Another good reason to consume MCT oil first thing in the morning is that it improves mental performance. For example, adding fat to coffee, such as MCT oil, makes you feel fuller for longer, keeping you from bingeing later.
However, it’s important to proceed with caution and forethought whenever making dietary adjustments, including when adding MCT oil to your coffee.
MCT oil in coffee may help you achieve peak performance and health like never before if you aren’t already dealing with a problem like heart disease or high blood pressure.
What are the Benefits of MCT Oil with Coffee?
There are numerous benefits to MCT oil in coffee, ranging from improved mental clarity and cognitive performance to increased energy levels throughout the day. Here are some of its known health effects.
1. MCT Oil with Coffee for Weight Loss
MCTs are a great energy source and a powerful fat-burning tool. Coffee is a good alternative to energy drinks because it has no sugar or fat. Consequently, coffee with MCT oil added is a great keto drink since it satisfies these criteria and aids the body in remaining in ketosis. [1]
MCT oil helps maintain the ketogenic diet, which reduces carbohydrates and increases healthy fats in your daily meals. In addition, MCT oil goes straight to the liver, converting it into fuel for the body to increase performance and weight loss.
2. MCT Oil with Coffee for Improved Cognitive Function
MCT oil can be used as brain fuel to improve mental clarity, focus, and concentration. MCTs are quickly absorbed by the body, providing instant energy for the brain cells to help with better thinking.
Also, MCT oil in coffee may even protect against Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia since MCTs improve cognitive function. [2]
3. MCT Oil with Coffee for Increased Energy Levels
Consuming MCT oil in coffee or other beverages can help increase energy levels throughout the day. MCTs are quickly converted into fuel by the body, which can keep you energized for longer periods and is especially helpful if you need an extra boost to get through your workout.
MCTs also help reduce fatigue and improve mental alertness, so it’s an excellent choice for those who need an extra energy boost throughout the day. [3]
4. MCT Oil with Coffee for Reduce Heart Risk
MCT oil helps reduce bad cholesterol levels and increase good cholesterol. Maintaining proper cholesterol levels is key to keeping your heart healthy, so MCTs are an excellent addition to any diet. MCT oil is also known to reduce inflammation and improve insulin resistance, two other key factors in maintaining a healthy heart. [4]
5. MCT Oil with Coffee for Controlling Blood Sugar Levels
MCTs can help reduce blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and control glucose levels, making MCT oil a great choice for those with diabetes. MCTs also help regulate hormones that control appetite and fat storage, helping keep the body balanced.
How to Take MCT Oil with Coffee
It is important to note that MCT oil should not be heated. MCT oil is sensitive to heat and will oxidize easily, which could destroy its nutrients. Adding MCT oil directly into a coffee can help keep it from being damaged by the high temperatures of brewing coffee.
You can add MCT oil to coffee by brewing a cup of coffee, and then stirring in MCT oil using either a spoon or a milk frother. Make sure to use MCT oil that is organic and cold-pressed for maximum health benefits.
The amount you add should depend on your current level of fat intake. It’s generally recommended to start with one teaspoon per eight ounces of coffee and increase the amount based on your preference.
You can also add MCT oil to smoothies or other beverages. It also makes a great addition to salads, as it helps you absorb nutrients from the vegetables more efficiently.
What are the Side Effects of MCT Oil with Coffee?
While MCT oil has many health benefits, it may not be safe for pregnant women or those who have not yet gotten their blood sugar under control or who have liver problems.
Also, since MCT oil is metabolized so quickly and differently, consuming too much at once might be harmful. Excessive amounts of MCT oil can cause severe abdominal pain. Even while it poses no real threat, the experience is nonetheless unpleasant.
Fortunately, MCT oil’s potential adverse effects on the digestive system may be readily avoided. You only need to take care of the quantity of MCT oil you consume and choose a good brand.
Bottomline: Are There Health Benefits in Taking MCT Oil with Coffee?
MCT oil has many potential health benefits, especially when consumed in coffee. It’s a quick and effective way to increase your energy levels, improve mental clarity, and boost your metabolism.
Adding MCT oil to your coffee has some interesting health benefits that may be helpful for people who want more energy or clarity throughout the day. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s body is different and reacts differently to various substances.
Before adding MCT oil – or any other supplement – to your diet, consult your doctor to see if it’s right for you.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- St-Onge MP, Bosarge A, Goree LL, Darnell B. Medium chain triglyceride oil consumption as part of a weight loss diet does not lead to an adverse metabolic profile when compared to olive oil. J Am Coll Nutr. 2008 Oct;27(5):547-52. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2008.10719737. PMID: 18845704; PMCID: PMC2874191.
- Juby AG, Blackburn TE, Mager DR. Use of medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil in subjects with Alzheimer’s disease: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study, with an open-label extension. Alzheimers Dement (N Y). 2022 Mar 14;8(1):e12259. doi: 10.1002/trc2.12259. PMID: 35310527; PMCID: PMC8919247.
- Wang Y, Liu Z, Han Y, Xu J, Huang W, Li Z. Medium Chain Triglycerides enhances exercise endurance through the increased mitochondrial biogenesis and metabolism. PLoS One. 2018 Feb 8;13(2):e0191182. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191182. PMID: 29420554; PMCID: PMC5805166.
- St-Onge MP, Lamarche B, Mauger JF, Jones PJ. Consumption of a functional oil rich in phytosterols and medium-chain triglyceride oil improves plasma lipid profiles in men. J Nutr. 2003 Jun;133(6):1815-20. doi: 10.1093/jn/133.6.1815. PMID: 12771322.
