Posted on September 14, 2017 by Brittany Clarke

MCT Oil vs. Coconut Oil

The Case for MCT Oil:

MCT oil stands for medium chain triglyceride. It is rapidly absorbed, providing fast fuel to the body and quick energy to the brain. It is also tasteless and easier to digest since it’s processed through the liver rather than being digested like most other foods. The following fatty acids are MCTs: caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, and lauric acid. MCT oil is extracted from coconut oil or palm oil, but they naturally occur in human breast milk and dairy products. Coconut oil is high in MCTs, but MCT oil is more concentrated in certain types such as caprylic acid and capric acid. MCT oil is also fast metabolic fuel for muscles and supports a low-carb, ketogenic diet.

The Case for Coconut Oil:

Coconut oil is higher in lauric acid than MCT oil. Lauric acid acts like a long and medium chain fatty acid. When coconut oil (or other product containing lauric acid) is digested, it is converted to monolaurin, which is optimal for immune function. MCT oil does not contain this. So there are the pros and cons. My opinion on mct oil that is derived from palm oil: it is very destructive to the environment and to the people who manufacture it (look for sustainably harvested/fair trade).

Here’s the takeaway:

    • For fast and lasting energy, concentrated MCT oil is more beneficial
    • For lauric acid and its immune benefits, coconut oil is the “superstar” (Source: Wellness Mama)

Product to Try: Tera’s Whey MCT Coconut Splash!
12 fl oz
$20.99
You Save $7.00
Thru 10/3

  • Simple, pure and convenient way to add medium chain triglycerides (MCT) into your daily diet.
  • Easily mixes into coffee, smoothies, shakes, oatmeal, yogurt and much more.
  • Delicious organic bourbon vanilla flavor!”
  • 100% coconut sourced
  • 6.8g of MCT per serving with 31% of lauric acid value
  • Delicious, organic bourbon vanilla flavor
    vNon-GMO, Gluten Free, Vegan, Dairy Free, Soy Free, No artificial flavors or colors, No animal derivatives


For further reading, check out this post:Coconut Oil vs MCT Oil

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