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NOW Foods MCT Oil is a pure liquid source of medium chain triglycerides derived from coconut and palm kernel oils, supplied in a 946 ml bottle for flexible daily use. MCTs are a distinct class of fatty acids that are rapidly absorbed and transported to the liver, where they are preferentially used as an energy substrate rather than stored as long‑term body fat. This unflavoured oil disperses easily into drinks, shakes, and cold recipes, and is frequently chosen in sports nutrition, ketogenic plans, and low‑carbohydrate dietary strategies. The formulation contains only MCT oil with no added flavours, sweeteners, or common allergens.
Medium chain triglycerides are triglyceride molecules built from medium‑length fatty acids, primarily caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10), which occur naturally in coconut and palm kernel oils. Unlike long‑chain fats, MCTs bypass several digestive steps and are transported directly via the portal vein to the liver, where they can be oxidised for energy. Because of this metabolic pathway, they are widely used in clinical nutrition, endurance sports formulations, and specialised dietary protocols that emphasise rapid, readily available fat‑based fuel. The liquid format used by NOW Foods enables straightforward mixing and precise measurement with a standard tablespoon.
Each serving delivers 14 g of MCT oil obtained from coconut and palm kernel sources, providing a defined ratio of caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) fatty acids. These specific chain lengths are valued in nutritional science for their fast intestinal uptake and efficient mitochondrial utilisation. The absence of long‑chain fats, carbohydrates, and protein allows the product to be incorporated into a wide variety of dietary systems without significantly altering macronutrient balance.
MCTs are more easily emulsified and absorbed than typical dietary fats, requiring less bile and pancreatic enzyme activity. Once absorbed, they move directly to the liver, where they are promptly metabolised, supporting the generation of ATP and ketone bodies. This characteristic has led to their use in research on weight management, body composition, and endurance exercise, where consistent access to fat‑derived energy is of interest.
The neutral taste and odour make this MCT oil suitable for mixing into coffee, shakes, smoothies, or salad dressings without significantly altering flavour. The liquid form simplifies titrating intake across the day and can be combined with both sweet and savoury preparations. Because it is not suitable for high‑temperature frying, it is typically added to foods after cooking or used in low‑heat applications such as sauces and cold dishes.
Medium chain triglycerides have been examined for their roles in energy metabolism, weight management, and clinical nutrition support. Because they are processed differently from long‑chain fats, studies have investigated their potential contributions to thermogenesis, satiety signalling, and substrate utilisation during exercise. MCTs are also discussed in relation to ketogenic nutrition, where their rapid conversion to ketone bodies may help maintain ketosis under certain dietary conditions. Research continues to explore their applications in metabolic health, sports performance, and specialised medical feeding protocols.
MCT oil is referenced across sports nutrition, clinical dietetics, and metabolic research. It is incorporated into meal plans that emphasise controlled carbohydrate intake, as well as into regimens seeking to adjust fat type rather than total fat quantity. Applications range from general energy support to specific protocols in which easily absorbed fats are preferred over standard long‑chain triglycerides.
| Characteristic | MCT Oil | Typical Long‑Chain Fats |
|---|---|---|
| Chain length | Medium (C8–C10 predominant) | Long (C16–C18 and above) |
| Digestive handling | Rapid emulsification and absorption, reduced need for bile | Requires full bile and lipase activity |
| Portal transport | Direct transfer to liver via portal vein | Packaged into chylomicrons and transported via lymph |
| Primary utilisation | Preferentially oxidised for energy | Greater tendency to enter long‑term fat stores |
| Typical culinary use | Added to drinks, dressings, low‑heat recipes | General cooking, frying, baking |
MCT oil is suitable for low‑heat applications and for adding to prepared foods, but it is not recommended for frying or very high‑temperature cooking due to its smoke point.
Yes, many ketogenic and low‑carbohydrate protocols include MCT oil because of its rapid conversion to fat‑based energy and ketone bodies within the liver.
It is generally advisable to begin with 1–2 teaspoons per day, taken with food, and gradually increase to a full tablespoon as tolerated to minimise digestive discomfort.
The oil is sourced from plant‑based raw materials (coconut and palm kernel oils) and does not contain animal‑derived ingredients, making it compatible with vegan diets according to manufacturer specifications.
This product is a food supplement. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information provided is for educational purposes and does not replace personalised advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult a healthcare practitioner before making significant changes to your diet or supplement routine. Supplements should be used in conjunction with, and not as a substitute for, a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
Please read before purchase. The information provided regarding dietary supplements or ointments are not to be taken as medical advice.
Consult a healthcare professional prior to use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.
Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place. Do not use if seal under cap is broken or missing.
Order by 2PM to get delivered next working day! We use 24 hours service with carriers in most cases so that you can get your order delivered on time.
There is 4.99£ charge for delivery under 49£ Orders. Additional charges will be imposed by our couriers for delivery to remote area, a surcharge may be levied to cover carriage to these areas.
Please note: Exposure to heat or sunlight may lead to melting/damage of product. Hence customers are expected to be available during the product delivery.
The United Vitamins team will work with you to design a wellness plan based on your health profile, your goals, and your lifestyle.