If you’re like many with a growing interest in the ketogenic diet, there’s a good chance you’ve heard about mct oils. Mct oil adds to the keto diet by boosting ketone production, increasing energy levels, and metabolizing fat- ultimately leading to weight loss. There are also many other proposed health benefits of this oil, however the first step is getting your hands on quality mct oil.
If you came looking for the best mct oil, you came to the right place. While objectively there is no best mct oil, there is a high standard of quality that will get you the results you’re looking for. In this article we’ll take a look at some of the best oils, what mct oil is, and some of the pitfalls to look for on your search for the best mct oil.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase with these links (at no additional expense to you).
What is MCT Oil?
Before we even get into mct oil products, it’s important to know what mct oil is in the first place. If you don’t already know, mct oil stands for medium-chain triglyceride oil. This type of oil comes from multiple sources including coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and dairy products.
Because of its chemical makeup MCTs metabolized differently than long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) you’ll find in most other foods. Due to its length, this supplement is broken down faster than LCTs. It is often colorless, odorless, and flavorless and is a liquid at room temperature, so it can be consumed on its own or mixed into foods and beverages. MCT oil is considered keto-friendly because it is carb-free and high in fats, which aligns with the macronutrient ratios of the ketogenic diet. MCT oil is claimed to provide several benefits, including boosting energy, supporting ketosis, enhancing mental clarity, promoting healthy weight management, and aiding in digestion
Keppi MCT Oil Keto
Keppi MCT Oil Keto is the best mct oil (or at least one of the best mct oils) for the reasons you would and wouldn’t expect. For starters this product is completely flavorless and odorless, making it one of the most versatile options out there. This 100% coconut oil is certified gluten free and packed with C8 long chain fatty acids, making it quick to absorb and great for energy boosts. In its 32 fl oz bottle, you can add as much or as little as you want to your favorite meals, coffees, and smoothies without the fear of any distasteful flavors.
According to the nutritional information provided, a serving of Keppi Keto MCT Oil contains 0g total carbs, 0g net carbs, 15g fat, 0g protein, and 135 calories.
takeaway
Many customer reviews mention the noted increase in energy and energy production in a short period of time after taking Keppi’s mct oil. Another important plus to this product is how it mixes with drinks. It’s no secret that oils and liquids don’t mix well, causing the oil to rise to the top of beverages. Fortunately Keppi’s mixes quite well with coffee, and for some it serves as a great replacement for cream. All in all Keppi’s mct oil is one of the best options for balancing the benefits of health and consistency, all without interfering with the flavor of your favorite food/ beverages. If you’re looking for a versatile product with great health benefits at an affordable price, Keppi’s is a fine place to start.
Nature’s Way MCT Oil
Nature’s Way is already well established in the in the health and fitness industry for their quality products, and their oil is no exception. Their priority for this product is fueling the body and the brain with a diverse array of healthy fats from organic coconuts. Nature’s Way has 14g of medium chained triglycerides per serving, containing caprylic and capric acid which is believed to have anti-bacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
This is another flavorless option that can be used in all manner of edible ways like in salad dressing, yogurt, smoothies- you name it. It’s made with wholesome ingredients free of palm oil, filler oils and hexane. Nature’s Way is also paleo, keto, vegan-certified, and with 59 servings you’ll have plenty to last you a while.
takeaway
Many have emphasized the quality of the oil for its particular price point. It’s considered a steal compared to other more expensive options on the market. As mentioned before it is flavorless and mixes very well with liquid- so if you love coffee or take protein shakes this is an excellent option. As a leader in the industry for quality health solutions, Nature’s Way (and particularly its mct oil) is a safe, reliable option for those looking to boost their energy, and improve focus and gut health at a very reasonable price.
Viva Naturals Organic MCT Oil
Viva Naturals offers it’s unique mct oil as a source of pure c8 and c10 triglycerides to promote energy and mental focus on low carb diets. To ensure the highest quality, Viva Naturals is also made of 100% non gmo coconuts and comes in either 16 oz or 32 oz bottles.
takeaway
This product is a hit with customers. Multiple people mention differences in how they feel; greater alertness, happiness, and mental focus throughout the day for starters. Others have noted that Viva Naturals has had an effect on their metabolism- reducing hunger while providing just the right amount of energy. The price point is also a factor that has sweetened the pot for many buyers. The main (and virtually only) critique is the squirt bottle itself which if you squeeze shots the oil everywhere. Other than that it could be the best mct oil on the market; affordable, effective, tasteless and odorless with basic ingredients and no additives.
Keto Science Ketogenic MCT Oil
Keto Science mct oil is a science-backed product that offers multiple health benefits including weight management and weight loss, satiety, and energy.This oil in particular is sourced from organic coconuts and created with a steam distillation process to ensure you get clean mct oil. Because of the heavy concentration of ingredients this is one of the best mct oils for its c8 and c10 content.This product is carb free making it a great choice for people interested in ketogenic dieting. It’s also a solid choice for adding to coffee, an almond milk latte, or even a smoothie.
takeaway
Reviewers confirm the quality of Keto Science. One big plus customers mention is its ability to regulate digestive health. Some have expressed they suffered from diverticulitis and gastroparesis and as a result of taking Keto Science mct oil have “never felt better”. It’s also been called a reliable, steady source of energy as well as a great way of curbing hunger throughout the day.
Bulletproof Brain Octane C8 MCT oil
Bulletproof is another company that offers a range of different supplements, but in this case they’ve delivered their high quality brain octane formula. Made with 100% pure medium chain triglycerides, this product prioritizes brain and bodily energy with its abundance of caprylic acid. This caprylic acid provides all the benefits of immediate energy without the crash normally associated with caffeine and other supplements.This product is also designed to help boost the metabolism, ultimately supporting fat loss.
Bulletproof mct Oil is considered keto-friendly as it is carb-free and high in fats, which aligns with the macronutrient ratios of a ketogenic diet. It is intended to be used as a source of energy and to support ketosis, the metabolic state where the body uses fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates.
takeaway
Bulletproof mct oil also comes in multiple sizes (16 and 32 fl oz) and packages at reduced prices, offering you the freedom to purchase as much or as little as you see fit. Customers have deemed it one of the best mct oils on the market for its quality, potency, and health benefits. Several people attest to the “brain bump” they feel when taking the MCT regularly. It’s also objectively raised people’s ketone levels- for some to remarkable levels in a very short amount of time. Bulletproof mct oil is a solid choice for anyone looking for a quality MCT at a reasonable price.
BioTrust Keto Elevate, Pure C8 MCT Oil Powder
Unlike the other mct oils on this list, BioTrust is unique. For one, BioTrust Keto Elevate is an mct oil powder. Some might consider this brand the best mct oil simply for the fact that it comes both flavored and unflavored. You can choose between two basic flavors (hazelnut and vanilla) that come highly rated by customers.Each scoop of powdered BioTrust has only 1 gram of net carbs, and each total serving contains 5 grams of C8. Unlike other mct oils and powders, this product contains only C8 which provides greater ketone production that provides quick, clean energy.
For those concerned about purity and simplicity of ingredients, keto elevate has no corn, soy, or wheat ingredients/fillers. It is also no-GMO, sugar free, and free of maltodextrin, and best of all it is 3rd party lab tested for purity and potency, and safety.
takeaway
Customers claim that Keto elevate is a great substitution for caffeine, providing them just as much energy. And unlike other forms of caffeine, BioTrust can be added to different beverages either in its flavored form or in it’s unflavored form. Again many people love their vanilla and hazelnut flavors and insist that it mixes well without clumping. This mct oil also helps curb the appetite- several customers mentioning noticeable weight loss. If you’re looking for a balance of good flavor, texture/ consistency, and health benefits- BioTrust’s Keto Elevate may be the best mct oil on the market for you.
the benefits of mct oil supplementation
mct oil may help with weight management
The scientific community rarely jumps the gun without strong, conclusive evidence. However the data surrounding this oil suggests positive affects on weight management. One meta-analysis in particular surveyed 29 other trials and found a correlation between MCTs and lower caloric intake(1).
The reasoning behind this phenomena is that MCTs induce a feeling of fullness, which in turn reduce overall calorie intake and lead to weight loss over time.A study found that people who had mct oil with their breakfast ate less at lunchtime compared to those who consumed LCT oil. An explanation for this is that MCT oil has fewer calories than long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), saturated fats found in many other foods.
By consuming MCT oil opposed to LCTs, you’re literally reducing your overall calorie intake. Combined with physical activity, it’s easy to see how MCTs have the potential to accelerate weight loss.
MCTs are an exceptional energy source
If MCTs reduce caloric intake, wouldn’t that mean the body has less energy at its disposal?
This would be a logical line of reasoning, but you also have to consider the quality and function of MCT. Because of its short chain, the oil is quickly absorbed into the body, and converted into usable energy. Contrary to most fats MCTs are sent directly to the liver where they are either used for energy production or stored as fat.
Since MCTs don’t have to be broken down to enter the bloodstream, they are an easy and very accessible form of energy. During a ketogenic diet, MCTs are altered to become ketones in the liver. As a result they’re capable of passing the blood-brain barrier- essentially becoming fuel for the brain.
mct oil provides greater ketosis and brain health
As we age the health of our brains becomes more and more relevant. As many as 50 million American adults heve experienced some type of brain disease or disorder at the turn of the 2020s. In recent years however health experts have been looking to mct oil as a viable solution for combatting many of these illnesses.
MCTs along with a ketogenic diet may bring the body into a state of ketosis. Ketosis is a metabolic state where the body uses ketones (produced from fat breakdown) as its primary fuel source instead of carbohydrates. It’s believed that ketones have neuroprotective properties, which is (in theory) beneficial for brain health.
A small study investigated the connection between epileptic seizures and mct oil MCTs and found participants had 42% fewer seizures when supplementing medication with MCTs for 3 months(2). Keep in mind that the author of this study recommends more research before jumping to conclusions. The type of chain fatty acids that make up the medium chain triglyceride oil may play an important role.
One particular in vitro study suggests that capric acid has a stronger effect on controlling seizures than many epileptic medications(3).These improvements aren’t unique to just epilepsy. Some researchers are convinced that 20 to 70mg of quality mct oil that contains caprylic and capric acid has the ability to improve the symptoms of mild and moderate Alzheimer’s.
possibility of improved cognitive function
Fortunately you don’t have to be suffering cognitively to reap the benefits of mct oil. MCTs can also improve brain function in healthy adults as well. MCT compared to control groups was found to improve memory (specifically working memory) of non-demented older adults in 4 out of 6 studies(4). This oil has also been found to increase brain energy by 8 to 9%. Ultimately this can help improve cognitive function by providing the brain with the energy it needs to function optimally.
mct oil may be a viable option for digestive support
The benefits don’t stop in the brain but can be found all the way in the gut with improved digestive health. There are trillions of microorganisms that make up the digestive ecosystem, and MCTs help promote the growth of countless healthy bacteria. This in turn strengthens the intestinal barriers, fortifying against dangerous microorganisms from invading the gastrointestinal tract.MCT oil may help prevent stomach and liver injuries by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in these organs. It may improve immune response by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.MCT oil may reduce symptoms of colitis, which is a type of inflammatory bowel disease
what should people look for when buying the best mct oil?
Fortunately mct oil is very simple. As far as ingredients go, if you find a product with just the oil itself, it’s likely a decent buy. But you’re not looking for decent- you’re looking for the best mct oil. There is no way to crown just one the “best”, however there are qualities that the best mct oil would have that you should be on the lookout for.
always check for purity and simplicity
As mentioned before simplicity should be on the top of your list when searching for the best mct oil. keep your eye out for MCTs oil that come strictly from medium-chain triglycerides sourced from coconut oil. Make sure it does not contain any additives, fillers, or other unnecessary ingredients. Also steer clear of palm oil if possible. Palm oil contains MCTs as well, however palm oil is high in saturated fats which has the potential to boost unhealthy cholesterol and triglycerides that cause heart disease.
understand the different types of medium chain triglycerides
Keep in mine that medium chain triglycerides come in various lengths. This includes C8 (caprylic acid), C10 (capric acid), or often a combination of both. C8 is recognized as the most ketogenic and easily transformed into ketones the body uses for energy. Most MCTs oils have a gracious mixture of C8 and C10, and others may be primarily composed of one type. By understanding these acids more, it can give you clarity as to which you need more or less of- ultimately guiding your purchasing decision.
look for certifications
It’s to your advantage to find products that have been third-party tested for quality and purity. There are a couple of certifications like NSF International, USP (United States Pharmacopeia), or the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) that are reputable and offer greater assurances for quality mct oil.
inspect the packaging
What many people don’t know about mct oil is that it’s sensitive to both light and air. If left exposed, the oil could be subject to oxidation and eventually go bad. It’s in your best interest to find MCTs packaged in a dark, opaque bottle with a tight seal to protect against light and air exposure.
make sure the product is flavorless and odorless
While a flavored mct oil isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it could also be an indication of poor quality. Generally higher-quality mct oil is odorless and tasteless. As a rule of thumb: steer clear of products with strong odors or flavors, as they have a higher likelihood of impurities or improper processing.
learn about the company’s transparency
Find companies that are clear about how they source and manufacture all of their products, mct oils included. Brands that are transparent about their practices tend to be more trustworthy.
review the product’s packaging size(s)
Consider the quantity of MCT oil you need and how often you plan to use it. While some brands may offer you a better price with larger bottles, you might be better off buying in smaller amounts when considering the shelf life and how frequently you use it.
take a look at online reviews
Always check out customer reviews to get better perspective and insights into the quality and effectiveness of the MCT oil you’re looking at.
what are the downsides of taking mct oil?
MCTs are a great way to boost energy, improve brain health, and regulate the digestive system- but that doesn’t mean this healthy oil isn’t without its downsides. Before adding mct oil to your diet here are a few critical points you might want to consider.
high calorie content
It is true that medium chain triglycerides have less calories than their long chained counterparts, however that doesn’t mean they’re low in calories themselves. Just one tablespoon contains around 115 calories. MCTs can be a tool for weight management and weight loss, but used in excess can potentially lead to weight gain and other health problems associated with excessive calorie intake.
saturated fat content
MCT oil is mainly comprised of saturated fat, which if left unchecked can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease if taken in copious amounts. Remember that moderation is the best way to balance the benefits of mct oil while preventing any needless health issues.
digestive issues
While many have found MCTs helpful for their digestive health, there is still the possibility for adverse effects. Some people have experienced digestive issues after taking mct oil, such as diarrhea, bloating, and stomach pain. It’s recommended that you begin with smaller dosages and work your way up to a regular serving. This will give the body time to acclimate to the oil and prevent any drastic side effects.
lack of essential fatty acids
Medium chained triglycerides contain healthy fatty acids, however it doesn’t have essential fatty acids, which are important for overall health. Ideally the body needs other sources of healthy fats in the diet to ensure adequate intake of essential fatty acids- so as long as you’re getting them from other sources it’s not necessarily a problem
limited research
While there is some promising research on the benefits of MCT oil, MCTs are a far cry from bonified solutions. There is still a lot more research that needs to be done to both solidify past claims and discover new positive or negative effects backed by science.
In Closing
The market is full of great mct oils, and with a little time and research you’ll find the right one for you. The last piece of advice I can give is to simply know what you’re trying to get out of the product. If you understand what specific health benefit you need from the mct oil, it becomes easier to pin point details that will set certain products above the rest.
