MCT Oil in Your Morning Coffee: Side Effects and Benefits

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are a type of fat found in oils like coconut and palm oil. MCT oil has become increasingly popular, especially with keto dieters, and celebrities like Halle Berry and Kourtney Kardashian swear by it.

There are many benefits associated with MCT oil, but there are also side effects to keep in mind when adding this flavorless and odorless oil to your morning coffee.

Effect of MCT Oil on the Body

MCT oil is praised for giving people an energy boost, which is why so many add it to their morning coffee to start their day. MCTs can be rapidly digested and absorbed, reaching your liver quicker than most other fats.

MCT oil supports the ketone generation process and is especially popular among people who follow a keto diet. During this process, your brain and body get more "fuel."

Overall, the effect of MCT oil on the body helps to promote good health. It helps manage diseases and promotes weight loss in conjunction with a healthy diet.

Because MCT oil promotes fat and weight loss, it's also effective in preventing heart-related health problems like high cholesterol and high blood pressure. It's even known to assist the body in fighting bacterial growth and, with it, infections and illnesses.

Common Side Effects of Taking MCT Oil

Although studies about the long-term effects of MCT oil are still ongoing, there are some common side effects you should be aware of before adding this supplement to your daily diet.

Stomach Upsets

An upset stomach after taking MCT oil is one of the most common side effects. You could experience diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even nausea and vomiting.

Heart Palpitations

Some people who take MCT oil daily have reported experiencing heart palpitations.

Weight Gain

Many people associate MCT oil with weight loss, but it can occasionally actually lead to weight gain. While MCTs release hormones that make you feel fuller for longer, they can lead to increased hunger in some people. This is because MCTs stimulate the release of hunger hormones in these individuals.

Fat Buildup in the Liver

Taking high doses of MCT oil for prolonged periods can increase the amount of fat in your liver. However, more research needs to be done to confirm this finding.

Raised LDL Cholesterol Levels

Regularly taking MCT oil can increase the levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or "bad" cholesterol in your body. These higher levels can result in strokes, coronary artery disease, heart disease, heart attacks, chest pain (angina), and peripheral artery disease.

Benefits of Taking MCT Oil

Taking MCT oil offers many benefits, which is why it has become so popular. However, it is important to note that these are potential benefits, and more scientific research is required to confirm them.

Increased Energy and Mental Alertness

MCTs are able to travel from your gut to your liver quickly and don't require bile to break down, so they're absorbed faster. As a result, they can be an immediate source of energy for increased physical vitality and a cognitive boost.

Weight Loss

The research and findings about this claim are still not concrete, but taking a good quality MCT oil can help to reduce body weight by helping your body reach the fat-burning phase faster.

Management of Chronic Conditions

Studies have indicated that taking MCT oil and going on a ketogenic diet can help people manage conditions like Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and autism.

Blood Sugar Regulation

MCT oil can also help people with diabetes. The oil has been found to lower the blood sugar levels of those who add it to their diet while also helping to improve their blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity (1).

MCT Oil Can Be Beneficial, but Take With Caution

As there are potential side effects, you should consult your doctor before adding MCT oil to your diet.

Overall, MCT oil can be beneficial, especially for those following a keto diet. It's important to take high-quality MCT oil, as many options on the market are largely ineffective. Approved Science MCT oil, for example, is backed by years of research and clinical studies.