MCT Oil: Ideal Supplement for Intense Activity and Weight Loss

Ideal option for those who engage in high energy activities, MCT oil is a lipid-based compound extracted from refined coconut oil. Also known as TCM, it means medium chain triglycerides, according to nutritionist Maria Emilia França, it gets its name from its rapid digestion when consumed.

Rich in good fats, these are quickly metabolized by our body to produce energy. And it is precisely for this reason that it is gaining increasing popularity, turning this substrate into a power source for immediate use.

8 Health Benefits Of MCT Oil

Although it is known as a supplement for those who need high doses of energy to practice intense activities, this supplement has other health benefits. Check out some of them according to the nutritionist:

1. Treatment of gastrointestinal disorders: "In hospitals and outpatient clinics, it is used to treat food absorption disorders, including diarrhea, poor fat digestion, celiac disease, liver disease, among others," says the professional.
2. Nutritional Support: As Maria Emília explains, in sports the MCT oil can be used by athletes as nutritional support during training, as well as to reduce body fat and provide an increase in muscle mass.
3. Weight Loss Aid: "Due to having a lower caloric content than other fats, these are minimally stored and contribute to metabolism, improving the burning of calories", guides.
4. Helps control appetite: As this supplement offers a feeling of satiety, it helps control the urge to eat outside of mealtime.
5. Prevention of atherosclerosis: According to the professional, this type of fatty acid has beneficial properties in preventing this type of disease, such as its anticoagulant function and the reduction of cholesterol in the liver.
6. Assists in the treatment of diabetes: with blood glucose lowering action, can be an adjunct in the treatment of this disease.
7. Increased aerobic endurance: Ideal function for cyclists or marathoners, with the consumption of this oil it is possible to increase the performance in aerobic activities.
8. Cognitive Improvement: Acting in increasing ketones in the body, it helps fight diseases like Alzheimer's and prevent seizures.

How to ingest MCT oil

Available in capsules, powders or liquid versions, the nutritionist recommends that the doses be individualized and specific to each proposed objective. "But in general, it is recommended to take an average of 4.5 to 9.0 ml per day, or as directed by the nutritionist or doctor," warns.

Its liquid version can have wide culinary use, since it has neutral flavor and allows to be heated at high temperatures (up to about 150ºC), without losing its properties. "It is worth adding it to juices, shakes, coffee, salad or preparing recipes," says Maria Emilia.

Read also: 40 smart ways to use coconut oil in your daily life

Should I take MCT oil before or after training?

With the function of ensuring high doses of energy, especially for aerobic exercise or interval training with aerobic and anaerobic exercises, it is most recommended to consume it before training. However, once again nutritional monitoring is recommended, indicating the best form of consumption for each patient.

What is the difference between coconut oil and MCT

According to the nutritionist, although they are similar, MCT oil has a different composition from traditional coconut oil. With a composition of about 62% MCT, coconut oil has seven times less caprylic and capric acid than the concentrations found in MCT oil.

Among other differences between the compounds present in both types of oils, it is possible to highlight the presence of lauric acid in coconut oil, being absent in MCT. "While MCT oil has a neutral flavor and the lowest calorie value, coconut oil has a characteristic flavor and is rich in calories," says the professional.

Contraindications of its consumption

Although safe for most people, the professional highlights the contraindication of its consumption for pregnant women, nursing mothers and people with liver disease. It is also noteworthy that the recommended quantities should always be respected. Besides causing side effects, an overdose can lead to weight gain ?, warns Maria Emilia.

Among the main side effects observed, nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort may occur, and "smaller doses at the beginning of treatment are recommended, with progressive increase according to the patient's tolerance", she indicates.

Read also: Bulletproof coffee contributes to physical and mental disposition

Ideal supplement for those who need high energy doses, MCT oil can be an ideal alternative for intense physical activity practitioners and those seeking weight loss. Like other herbal medicines, their use should be accompanied by specialized professional care.

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