When people talk about fats, they usually think fats are unhealthy and try to avoid them. However, fats provide most of the energy needed to perform much of the body’s work.  Fat tissue (adipose tissue) secretes hormones that help regulate appetite and influence other body functions. It also serves to protect your organs and insulate your body from extreme temperature.

Now, everyone knows that coconut is high in saturated fat. Yet, recent studies have re-evaluated this botanical fruit (not nut) and studies have shown that coconut contains medium-chain fatty acid, also known as medium-chain triglycerides – MCT. MCT is unique and different from most all other fats and possesses many health-giving properties. It is now gaining long overdue recognition as a nutritious health food.

Fat Classification

The difference is in the fat molecule. All fats and oils are composed of molecules called fatty acids. There are two methods of classifying fatty acids. The first, which you are probably familiar with, is based on saturation. There are saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats. Another system of classification is based on the molecular size or length of the carbon chain within each fatty acid. Fatty acids consist of long chains of carbon atoms with hydrogen atoms attached. In this system you have short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA), and long-chain fatty acids (LCFA). Coconut oil is composed predominately of MCTs.

MCT Oil & It’s Benefits

MCT oils contain only 8.3 calories instead of the usual 9 calories per fat gram.  They are digested and handled by the body in a different way than most fats. Most fats are long-chain triglycerides, which are difficult to process, so the body prefers to store them in fat cells. MCTs are easily digested by the body and can quickly be used as a fuel source behaving just like carbohydrates for muscle energy.

MCTs have a thermogenic effect in the body, helping you to stay slim by keeping your body fat levels down while keeping energy levels up. Fitness enthusiasts have used MCTs for their fat burning and energy-sustaining powers. It has been found that MCTs burn three times more calories for six hours after a meal than other fats. It is thought that they also stimulate production of thyroid hormone, improving thyroid function and consequently boosting metabolism.

For those with Crohn's and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the healing effects of MCT oil could be beneficial. MCTs promote intestinal health by killing microorganisms that may cause chronic inflammation.

Diabetics may also benefit from using MCTs as they help to regulate blood sugar levels.

 

MCT oil is beneficial for any individual who wishes to gain or lose weight, maintain a healthy immune system or maintain constant blood sugar levels. Where does one find such safe and seemingly miraculous oil? MCT-Oil is now available at NutriChem and because it is saturated, it is stable and has a long shelf life. Consult with our qualified Health Counselors today!

 

References:

1.     Alpha health Product http://www.alphahealth.ca/MCT-Oil.html

2.     Wikipedia, Medium Chain Triglycerides http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medium-chain_triglycerides