Benefits of MCT Oil on Keto

If you are familiar with the ketogenic lifestyle, then it is likely that you have heard about MCTs or medium-chain triglycerides. They may be popular, but are there benefits to supplementing with MCT oil on keto? What are MCTs and LCTs? When fatty acids are joined together they form what is known as triglycerides.  There are three different classifications for triglycerides based on carbon chain length: short (SCTs), medium (MCTs), or long (LCTs). Triglycerides that are comprised of 6-10 carbon atoms are classified as medium-chain triglycerides and are structurally different from long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), which contain 12-18 carbon atoms. MCTs can be further broken down to either Caproic (C6 or 6 Carbons), Caprylic (C8), and Capric acid (C10).  Lauric acid (C12), which is the primary fat in coconut oil, has characteristics of both MCTs and LCTs. Where can MCTs be Found? MCTs can be found in both natural and supplemental forms.  Coconut oil, palm kernel oil, cheese, butter, and milk are all foods with a high percentage of MCTs.  However, the primary MCT present […]…