Dear EuropaMan,
My customers are always asking for ways to burn fat. I recently read about people taking MCT oil. Does this work?
– Matt, Supplement Shop Owner
Dear Matt,
You aren’t the only one asking this question. It appears that ketogenic diets are becoming all the rage again. I’ll tell you what that trend has to do with the MCT oil you are hearing about.
What is MCT?
MCT stands for medium chain triglycerides. This molecular structure is the reason why the body treats MCT oil differently than conventional long chain triglycerides (LCT) fats which are found in most foods. MCT occurs naturally in some products, such as coconut oil, coconut milk, and other foods. But recently there has been a boom in supplements for it, in the form of oils, powders, and gel caps.
What are the benefits of MCT supplements?
Most fats enter the liver slowly from the lymph system. MCT fats, however, enter the liver directly. Research shows that when MCT is consumed, it creates a thermogenic effect in the body which means the number of calories burned increases significantly and fewer are stored as fat.
Burns fat
Boosts energy
Boosts metabolism
Allows for a higher intake of carbohydrate and protein
Assists with weight loss
What is the MCT oil and ketogenic diet connection?
The body uses carbs, fat, glucose and protein for energy. But we know that the body’s preferred choice for fuel is the carbohydrate. That’s why it’s important to note when MCT oil is metabolized in the body, it behaves more like a carb than a fat. MCT fats bypass the lymphatic system and get transported by the small intestine to get metabolized in the liver, where it releases energy like a carb and creates ketones in the process. Ketones are substances that are produced when the body burns fat for energy or fuel.
What is a ketogenic diet?
This type of diet is high in fat, and very low in carbohydrates. Similar to the Atkins diet, the ketogenic diet changes how the body uses energy. Fat is converted in the liver into fatty acids and ketone bodies. The reduction in carbs puts your body into a metabolic state
called ketosis.
What are the top benefits?
- Aids weight loss
- Fights cancer
- Treats Alzheimer’s
- Boosts mood
- Sharpens mental focus
- Regulates blood sugar
- Reduces general inflammation
To start your customers on a ketogenic diet, you could introduce them to MCT oil. Be sure to also encourage them to incorporate other healthy fats into their diet, including popular omega-3 foods like salmon, chia seeds, and flax seeds plus healthy omega-9 fatty acids found in olive oil, avocados, almonds, nuts and seeds. Just like any supplement selection, it can be tough to know what will work most effectively for your customers. Call your Europa Sales rep to ask about our best sellers.
Yours in Good Health,
P.S. Got a question regarding your business or the industry? Email [email protected]
