NUTRITION

5 Best MCT Oil Supplements for Keto Diets of 2024, Tested

By Emma ParkerUpdated on Dec 5, 2024

Enhance your ketogenic journey with these top-rated MCT oil supplements, each offering unique benefits to support your health goals:

Sports Research Organic MCT Oil

4.9

Extracted from organic coconuts; contains C8, C10, and C12 MCTs
USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Certified Vegan
Unflavored oil suitable for coffee, smoothies, and salads
Third-party tested for quality and purity
Supports energy levels and mental focus

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Sports Research offers a high-quality, versatile MCT oil that blends seamlessly into various foods and beverages, making it ideal for daily use.

Pros & Cons

Organic and non-GMO

Versatile usage

Third-party tested

May cause digestive discomfort if taken on an empty stomach

Nature's Way Organic MCT Oil

4.8

Sourced from premium coconuts; contains Caprylic (C8) and Capric (C10) acids
USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Certified Paleo
Flavorless and odorless; ideal for cooking and blending into drinks
BPA-free bottle ensures product safety
Provides quick energy and supports fat metabolism

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Nature's Way delivers a budget-friendly MCT oil without compromising on quality, perfect for those new to MCT supplementation.

Pros & Cons

Affordable

Organic and non-GMO

Flavorless for easy mixing

Some users report a mild aftertaste

Viva Naturals Organic MCT Oil

4.7

Derived from 100% organic coconuts; primarily C8 and C10 MCTs
USDA Organic, Non-GMO, and Keto Certified
Tasteless and odorless; mixes well with coffee and shakes
Bottled in the USA following strict quality standards
Promotes sustained energy and mental clarity

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Viva Naturals offers a pure MCT oil that integrates effortlessly into a keto lifestyle, supporting energy and focus.

Pros & Cons

High-quality sourcing

Easy to incorporate into diet

Supports mental clarity

Premium pricing compared to competitors

Bulletproof Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil

4.6

Contains 100% Caprylic Acid (C8) MCTs from coconut oil
Distilled for purity; free from palm oil
Flavorless and rapidly metabolized for quick energy
Ideal for bulletproof coffee and ketogenic diets
Supports cognitive function and ketone production

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Bulletproof's Brain Octane provides a concentrated source of C8 MCTs, known for efficient ketone production and mental performance.

Pros & Cons

Pure C8 MCTs

No palm oil

Enhances cognitive function

Higher cost per serving

Garden of Life Dr. Formulated MCT Oil

4.5

Sourced from organic coconuts; includes C8 and C10 MCTs
USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Certified Keto
Flavorless oil suitable for cooking and beverages
Manufactured in a cGMP certified facility
Supports energy, metabolism, and brain health

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Garden of Life provides a reliable MCT oil that aligns with clean eating standards, supporting overall health and ketogenic goals.

Pros & Cons

Organic and non-GMO

Versatile use

Certified Keto

Some users experience mild digestive issues initially

Incorporating MCT oil into your ketogenic diet can enhance energy levels, support mental clarity, and aid in maintaining ketosis. Choose a product that aligns with your dietary preferences and health objectives for optimal benefits.

What Is MCT Oil, and How Does It Work?

MCT oil, short for Medium-Chain Triglyceride oil, is a supplement derived from coconut oil or palm kernel oil. It contains medium-length fatty acids that are easily digested and rapidly converted into energy by the body.

Here’s how it works:

Quick Absorption
MCTs are transported directly to the liver, bypassing the usual digestive process, where they are quickly converted into ketones or energy.
Ketone Production
For those on a ketogenic diet, MCT oil supports ketosis by increasing ketone levels, which the body uses as an alternative fuel source instead of glucose.
Energy Boost
MCT oil provides an instant energy source, making it ideal for workouts, mental focus, and combating fatigue.
Supports Weight Loss
It may help with weight management by promoting satiety and boosting metabolism.

MCT oil is a versatile supplement that enhances energy levels, supports ketosis, and offers various health benefits, especially for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

Why Is MCT Oil Popular for Keto Diets?

MCT oil is a favorite among keto dieters because it provides a quick and efficient energy source that aligns perfectly with the principles of a ketogenic lifestyle. Here’s why:

Promotes Ketosis
MCTs (Medium-Chain Triglycerides) are rapidly converted into ketones in the liver, helping the body maintain ketosis, the metabolic state where fat is used as the primary energy source.
Instant Energy
Unlike other fats, MCTs are easily absorbed and metabolized, providing a fast energy boost for both physical and mental performance.
Supports Fat Burning
MCT oil enhances fat oxidation and can aid in weight management by increasing satiety and metabolism.
Easy to Incorporate
MCT oil is versatile—it can be added to coffee, smoothies, or salads, making it a convenient way to boost fat intake without extra carbs.
Brain Health Benefits
The ketones produced from MCT oil are a preferred fuel for the brain, promoting focus and mental clarity.

Its ability to support ketosis and provide sustained energy makes MCT oil a staple for those following a keto diet.

What Are the Benefits of MCT Oil for Keto Dieters?

MCT oil is a powerful supplement for those on a ketogenic diet, offering a range of benefits that enhance both energy and overall health. Here’s how it helps:

Boosts Ketosis
MCT oil is quickly converted into ketones, helping the body maintain ketosis—a state where fat is burned for energy instead of carbs.
Provides Instant Energy
MCT oil is rapidly absorbed and metabolized, delivering a quick energy boost that’s perfect for workouts or mental focus.
Enhances Fat Burning
It supports weight management by promoting fat oxidation and helping you feel fuller for longer, reducing the urge to snack.
Improves Brain Function
Ketones produced from MCT oil serve as an efficient fuel source for the brain, promoting mental clarity and focus.
Convenient and Versatile
MCT oil can be easily added to coffee, smoothies, or meals, making it a simple way to increase healthy fat intake on a keto diet.

For keto dieters, MCT oil is a valuable tool for optimizing energy, maintaining ketosis, and supporting weight loss and brain health.

How Do I Use MCT Oil in a Keto Diet?

MCT oil is a versatile and easy-to-use supplement that fits perfectly into a ketogenic diet. Here’s how you can incorporate it:

Add to Your Morning Coffee
Blend MCT oil into your coffee for a creamy, energizing start to the day, often called "keto coffee" or "bulletproof coffee."
Mix into Smoothies
Add a tablespoon to your favorite low-carb smoothie for a boost of healthy fats and sustained energy.
Drizzle on Salads or Veggies
Use MCT oil as a salad dressing base or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for a flavorful fat addition.
Use in Keto Baking
Incorporate MCT oil into recipes for fat bombs, muffins, or other keto-friendly baked goods.
Take It Straight
For a quick energy boost, take a teaspoon or tablespoon of MCT oil directly.

Tips:

Start with a small amount (1 tsp) and gradually increase to avoid digestive discomfort.
Pair it with meals or snacks to help maintain ketosis and energy levels throughout the day.

MCT oil is an effortless way to enhance your keto diet by promoting ketosis, increasing fat intake, and providing sustained energy.

Can I Use MCT Oil in Cooking or Baking?

Yes, MCT oil can be used in cooking and baking, but with some limitations due to its heat sensitivity. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Low-Heat Cooking
MCT oil has a low smoke point, so it’s best for low-heat cooking, such as light sautéing or drizzling over finished dishes like salads or roasted vegetables.
Baking Additions
You can incorporate MCT oil into keto-friendly baked goods, like fat bombs or muffins, where direct high heat is not applied for long periods.
Blending and Mixing
Use MCT oil in recipes like smoothies, salad dressings, or marinades to boost healthy fat content without cooking.