MCT oil is a dietary supplement that features triglycerides of medium-chain fatty acids, a type of fat that is more easily converted into energy within our bodies. In theory, MCTs should serve as a quick and efficient source of energy and thus may have various benefits such as providing an energy boost for exercise. Moreover, some research studies suggest that MCT oil may be beneficial for weight management.
If you decide to incorporate MCTs into your routine, we have prepared a list of what we consider to be the best MCT oil products.
Best MCT oil: a shortlist
- Performance Lab — best organic MCT oil
- Sports Research — best highly rated MCT oil
- Nutricost — best budget-friendly MCT oil on Amazon
- California Gold Nutrition — best budget-friendly MCT oil on iHerb
- BrainMD — best MCT oil for keto
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Comparison of best MCT oil products
Brand | Source | Form | Oil type | MCT per serving | Package size | Servings per package | Price per package | Price per serving |
Performance Lab | Organic coconuts | Oil | C8, C10 | 12.8 grams | 16 fl oz or 473 ml | 31 | $39.00 | $1.26 |
Sports Research | Organic coconuts | Oil | C8, C10, C12 | Does not specify | 16 fl oz or 473 ml | Does not specify | $18.95 | N/A |
Nutricost | Does not specify | Oil | Does not specify | 14 grams | 16 fl oz or 473 ml | 32 | $17.95 | $0.56 |
California Gold Nutrition | Organic coconuts | Oil | C8, C10 | 13 grams | 12 fl oz or 354 ml or | 24 | $12.97 | $0.54 |
BrainMD | Coconuts | Oil | C8, C10 | 14 grams | 16 fl oz or 473 ml | 31 | $24.95 | $0.80 |
Onnit | Coconuts | Oil | C8, C10 | 12.7 grams | 24 fl oz or 710 ml | 47 | $24.95 | $0.53 |
Nature's Way | Coconuts | Oil | C8, C10 | 14 grams | 30 fl oz or 887 | 59 | $38.49 | $0.68 |
Concluding the best MCT oil: Why Performance Lab is the best?
While many MCT oil products stand out in the market, we have chosen Performance Lab to be our top pick.
The main reason we have leaned towards this product is the brand’s commitment to high quality. For instance, this oil only contains C8 and C10 MCTs. This could be seen as an advantage because most research studies have been conducted using this type of MCT.
Moreover, this product is manufactured from only organic coconuts and, according to the manufacturer, is extracted via cold press. To further ensure purity, the oil goes through triple distillation.
Lastly, it is also important to mention that this MCT oil has been third-party tested and has Clean Label Project certification.
Best MCT oil: overview
Whether you are looking for the best MCT oil for weight loss, keto, or health, we have prepared a list of some of the options that are worth exploring. In this section, we will mention the most prominent features of these oils and why we choose to include them in the list.
1. Performance Lab — best organic MCT oil
- Organic and non-GMO coconut
- Third-party tested
- C8 and C10 MCT
- No unnecessary additives
- Subscribe and save 32% on your orders!
Amazon rating — No ratings
Trustpilot rating — 4.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Made from organic and non-GMO coconuts, MCT Energy Oil is our top choice due to its high quality and sustainability measures taken by the company.
Since this Performance Lab product is certified by the Clean Label Project, this MCT oil has been tested by an independent laboratory. Moreover, it contains no additional ingredients besides C8 and C10 MCT. Currently, most research studies have been conducted on C8 and C10, making them the preferred types of MCT oil.
According to the manufacturer, MCT Energy Oil is extracted via a cold process and undergoes triple distillation to ensure its quality.
What do customers like about Performance Lab
There are only a few reviews of this MCT oil online. For instance, there are only 49 reviews on the official Performance Labs website.
As the main benefit, Performance Lab users note an increase in energy, mental clarity, and concentration. Moreover, reviewers note the product to be tasteless and easy to incorporate into various beverages.
What do customers do not like about Performance Lab
As of now, there are only a few negative reviews for this product. One reviewer claimed that the product had no noticeable effects. Moreover, one customer noted issues with the delivery.
Performance Lab review
Performance Lab, based in the UK, offers a wide range of supplements distributed worldwide. Their parent company, OptiNutra®, supplies high-quality patented formulas, including NutriGenesis® vitamins and BioPerine®. The company also holds numerous quality and safety certifications, such as Clean Label Project.
List of pros and cons of Performance Lab
Final verdict about Performance Lab
Performance Lab's MCT Energy Oil is a premium choice for those seeking high-quality, sustainably sourced MCT oil. The brand's commitment to using organic and non-GMO coconuts, combined with rigorous third-party testing and certifications, ensures a product that meets high standards of sustainability and transparency.
A bottle of 1-month (16 fl oz or 473 ml) supply would cost you $39. One recommended serving of this product contains 12.8 g of MCT.
2. Sports Research — best highly rated MCT oil
- Organic and non-GMO coconut
- Third-party tested
- C8, C10, C12 MCT
- Subscribe and save 10% on your orders with Amazon!
Amazon rating — 4.7 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trustpilot rating — 3.2 ⭐⭐⭐
Made from organic and non-GMO coconuts, Sports Research presents a sustainable MCT oil that is loved by the customers. With over 24k reviews, this product averages 4.7 stars out of 5 on Amazon.
This MCT oil contains a full spectrum of medium-chain fatty acids (C8, C10, and C12) and no additional ingredients.
What do customers like about Sports Research
The main benefit of this MCT oil, based on a plethora of customer reviews on Amazon, appears to be enhanced energy levels. Alongside this, some users have reported that Sports Research helps them to curb food cravings. Lastly, users noted that this oil has no distinctive taste or smell, making it a perfect choice for adding to beverages like coffee.
What do customers do not like about Sports Research
Some Sports Research customers acknowledged various possible side effects of this product, such as diarrhea and upset stomach. A few reviewers also voiced problems with damaged bottles or leakage.
Sports Research review
Sports Research is a family-owned brand that focuses on various supplements for sports or overall wellness.
As a precaution, this brand is diligent when manufacturing its products. For instance, this product underwent third-party testing and is manufactured within cGMP facilities.
List of pros and cons of Sports Research
Final verdict about Sports Research
For those seeking to boost their energy levels and manage food cravings, this MCT oil by Sports Research may be worth considering. While this product is not without some minor flaws, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests that it is a worthwhile addition to your dietary regimen.
A 16 fl oz (473 ml) bottle of this oil is currently retailed for $18.95.
3. Nutricost — best budget-friendly MCT oil on Amazon
- Budget-friendly
- Budget-friendly Made in GMP-certified facilities
- Third-party tested
- Subscribe and save 5% on your orders with Amazon!
Amazon rating — 4.7 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trustpilot rating — 1.8 ⭐⭐
For those looking to incorporate MCT oil into their daily routine without breaking the bank, Nutricost offers an excellent choice.
The recommended serving according to the brand contains 14 g of MCT. The product does not include any other ingredients besides the MCT oil.
What do customers have to say about Nutricost
Although the product has an average rating of 4.7 stars from 5 on Amazon, there are no written reviews. On the official website, this Nutricost product does not have any reviews at all.
On iHerb, this product has 8 reviews — every single one of them being 5 stars out of 5. The customers note increased energy levels. In addition, reviewers mention the product to be tasteless and easy to incorporate into beverages or meals.
However, as there are only a few reviews, it is hard to gauge the full customer experience with this product, although the initial feedback is overwhelmingly positive.
Nutricost review
Nutricost is a Utah-based wellness company.
It is important to note that this brand does not specify the origin source of the MCT oil, nor does it provide information regarding the type. However, as a precautionary measure, this product was made in GMP-certified facilities and is third-party tested.
List of pros and cons of Nutricost
Final verdict about Nutricost
While Nutricost MCT has some drawbacks, such as limited transparency and sparse reviews, the positive feedback and affordable pricing make it a solid choice.
Currently, one bottle containing 32 servings is priced at $17.95 and is the cheapest product on the list.
4. California Gold Nutrition — best budget-friendly MCT oil
- USDA Organic coconut oil
- Non-GMO
- C8 and C10 MCT
- Unflavored
iHerb rating — 4.7 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trustpilot rating — 3.7 ⭐⭐⭐
Ranked as the first MCT oil on iHerb, this product is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable yet high-quality option. The product is a one-ingredient MCT oil that has been sourced from organic coconuts.
What do customers have to say about California Gold
Most customers note an increase in energy after consuming this oil. Moreover, buyers describe the taste as mild, subtle, and nutty, explaining it pairs well with beverages such as coffee. Other benefits include sustained energy and good value for price.
Some complaints about California Gold were related to the bottle design as customers noted spillage. Moreover, several customers did not like that the product comes in a plastic bottle. Reviewers also pointed out side effects like stomach discomfort.
California Gold Nutrition review
California Gold Nutrition is a private-label company from iHerb. Their mission is to provide people with more affordable wellness products, including various supplements and superfoods.
According to the official California Gold Nutrition website, all of their products are tested by independent laboratories to confirm high quality.
List of pros and cons of California Gold Nutrition
Final verdict about California Gold Nutrition
California Gold Nutrition MCT oil stands out as an excellent budget-friendly option. The brand uses USDA-certified organic coconuts for its oil.
Currently, one bottle containing 24 servings is priced at $12.97 and is the cheapest product on the list.
5. BrainMD — best MCT oil for keto
- Made from organic coconuts
- Non-GMO
- C8 and C10 MCT
- Subscribe and get 15% OFF your orders!
Amazon rating — 4.7 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trustpilot rating — No ratings
This MCT oil by BrainMD stands as a solid choice for people who follow a keto diet. It contains no additional ingredients, is flavorless, and pairs well with coffee, smoothies, and other low-carb beverages.
Furthermore, the product was made using organic and non-GMO coconuts and contains C8 and C10 MCTs. According to the brand, the product is made utilizing the cold pressing method.
What do customers like about BrainMD
A few BrainMD users shared that this product is helpful for increasing their energy levels. On top of that, some users mentioned improvements in focus and memory. Another commonly expressed benefit of this MCT oil is the neutral taste.
What do customers do not like about BrainMD
Some customers expressed having no noticeable effects while taking this supplement. In addition, some people noted having side effects such as upset stomach. One customer also reported experiencing leakage from the bottle’s cap.
BrainMD review
BrainMD is a company founded by Daniel Amen, a practicing psychiatrist. They manufactures various supplements that are, according to the brand, tailored to support brain health.
BrainMD products are made in cGMP-certified facilities.
List of pros and cons of BrainMD
Final verdict about BrainMD
BrainMD MCT oil is a strong contender in the MCT oil market. While there are minor drawbacks, such as the lack of third-party testing information, the positive customer feedback on its energy-boosting and cognitive benefits make this product worth considering.
A 16 fl oz (473 ml) bottle of BrainMD MCT oil is currently priced at $24.95. The product contains around 31 servings, each delivering 14 grams of MCT.
6. Onnit — best MCT oil for weight loss
- Made from coconuts
- Non-GMO
- C8, C10, C12 MCT
- Subscribe and save 15% on your orders!
Amazon rating — No ratings
Trustpilot rating — 2.5 ⭐⭐
Onnit is a coconut-sourced MCT oil formulated for weight management. This product contains no other ingredients besides C8, C10, and C12 types of MCTs.
According to the reviews, Onnit's MCT oil could be also considered to be the best MCT oil for coffee, smoothies, or any other beverage, as it has no flavor and mixes well.
What do customers like about Onnit
The main benefit customers note on the official Onnit website is increased energy levels. Some buyers also expressed that they use this supplement as a pre-workout to obtain sustained energy. Moreover, according to some reviewers, this MCT oil may be helpful for focus.
What do customers do not like about Onnit
The main complaint you can find on the official website is regarding the unappetizing flavor of this MCT oil. Some customers also criticized the packaging, suggesting that the cap is not leak-proof. Lastly, a few side effects were mentioned in the reviews, including vomiting in one case.
Onnit review
Onnit, a Texas-based company, offers nutritional supplements and fitness apparel. Joe Rogan is the co-founder of the company and often promotes its products during his podcasts. Right now, Onnit is owned by Unilever.
List of pros and cons of Onnit
Final verdict about Onnit
Onnit, a well-known fitness supplement brand, offers this product as a valuable option for anyone looking to incorporate MCT oil into their routine. Made from 100% coconuts, it is proposed as a more sustainable option to palm tree-derived oil.
A 24 fl oz (710 ml) bottle of Onnit is currently priced at $24.95 if you opt for a one-time purchase. This bottle size would provide you with about 47 servings, each delivering 12.7 grams of MCT.
7. Nature’s Way — the best MCT oil in a larger bottle
- Made from coconuts only
- C8 and C10 MCT
- Unflavored
This product by Nature’s Way is derived exclusively from organic coconuts and delivers 14 grams of MCTs per serving. Uniquely, the product comes in 2 size options: 16 fl (480 ml) or 30 fl (887 ml).
What do customers have to say about Nature’s Way
The main benefit Nature’s Way customers on Amazon associate with this MCT oil is increased energy levels while taking this product. Several customers note that it has a neutral flavor and leaves no aftertaste. Negative reviews report side effects such as cramping. Some customers also have issues with leakage from the bottle.
Nature’s Way review
Nature’s Way is a U.S.-based wellness company. It has a long-standing reputation for quality, with over 50 years of experience under its belt. All of Nature’s Way’s products are made in GMP-certified facilities.
List of pros and cons of Nature’s Way
Final verdict about Nature’s Way
Nature’s Way could be a great addition to your pantry if you are looking for a one-ingredient MCT oil. While it is generally well-received, potential buyers should be aware of the bottle's leaking issue.
A smaller bottler (32 servings) is priced at $26.49 before any discounts. The bigger one (59 servings) would cost you $38.49.
How to choose the best MCT oil?
When choosing the best MCT oil, it is important to consider certain factors. Below, we will give an overview of the criteria that played a role in selecting the products for our list.
Type | Brand reputation | Price-quality ratio | Sustainability |
C8 and C10 | Has positive reputation | Has good value for the price | Has taken at least sustainability measures |
- Type. Most studies used MCT oils containing C8 and C10 medium-chain fatty acids, so products containing them were preferred.
- Brand reputation. We analyzed various factors to determine the brand’s reputation such as reviews, certifications, and transparency.
- Price-quality ratio. For this list, we aimed to find high-quality products that are also reasonably priced.
- Sustainability. As MCT oil is derived from palm kernel oil or coconuts, sourcing these raw materials may have a higher environmental impact. We looked for products that keep sustainability in mind to minimize their product carbon footprint.
What is MCT oil?
Compared to long-chain triglycerides, medium-chain triglycerides, or MCTs, have shorter-length fatty acids in their composition. For this reason, MCT oil is believed to be used more quickly for energy production by our body than their counterparts with longer fatty acids. That’s why MCTs are often used as energy-boosting supplements.
Moreover, MCT oil is sometimes promoted to support the keto diet or weight loss. For instance, a meta-analysis of MCT for weight loss and body composition concluded that supplementation with this oil may help achieve modest body weight reduction. However, current research on its potential benefits remains limited, leaving gaps in our understanding of its broader effects.
MCT oil is usually derived from palm kernels or coconuts. Coconut oil is the closest alternative to MCT oil and contains more than 50% medium-chain triglycerides. However, some studies pinpoint that they should not be considered similarly beneficial. For instance, one study concluded that MCT oil may be more satiating than coconut oil.
Effectiveness of different MCT supplement forms
MCT oil is proposed to be helpful in weight management and gut health. However, as of now, research studies are scarce, especially comparing different MCT oil supplement forms. If you decide to use MCT, the most suitable form for you will be the one that can be easily integrated into your routine.
Most commonly, MCT supplements are sold in oil form. MCT oil itself is flavorless. It can be mixed up with food and beverages. You may also find MCT softgels and powders.
When it comes to sources, MCT oil is derived either from coconuts or palm kernel oil. When it comes to effectiveness, these two forms should not differ.
Can you use MCT oil when on a keto diet?
Yes, you can use MCT oil on a ketogenic diet as long as it does not contain any additional ingredients high in carbs.
In fact, MCT oil is preferred to coconut oil for those who practice keto since MCTs are more easily converted to ketones for energy.
The role of MCT oil in weight management
In weight loss, MCT oil is thought to boost energy expenditure and satiety, potentially reducing caloric intake. However, as of now, there are limited studies that explore MCT oil in weight management.
For instance, limited studies comparing MCT oils and other oils (olive, for instance) suggest higher weight loss with MCT supplementation.
Best time and dosage for MCT oil supplementation
As of now, the research is scarce to give a conclusive answer.
When it comes to the best time, some studies showed no difference when you consume MCT oil. For instance, one study included elderly people divided into two groups: the ones who took MCT during breakfast and those who added it to their dinner. This study did not show any difference between the groups in measured muscle mass and function and cognition parameters.
If you're trying to determine the optimal dosage of MCT, there's no conclusive recommendation available as of now. According to the EFSA review of MCT, the research studies on MCT used a range of dosages from 1.7g to 55g per day. Moreover, no major side effects were noticed during the reviewed studies.
However, this is not to say that MCT oil is well-tolerated in all populations. In the next section, we will talk about the possible negative effects and considerations regarding MCT oil supplementation.
What to consider before taking MCT oil
While some studies suggest that MCTs may have some benefits, more research is needed to fully understand their effects, especially in the long term.
Moreover, it is crucial to know that a diet high in fat (including MCT oil) is not advised for overweight and obese people or people at increased risk for cardiovascular disease.
If you decide to incorporate MCT oil into your routine, it is best to start with lower doses. Please also consider contacting your healthcare provider to determine if MCT is the right option for your case.
Best MCT oil: conclusion
MCT oil is promoted as a dietary supplement with potential benefits such as quickly providing energy, upkeep of gut health, and support for weight management.
Our curated list of the best MCT oil products, considering factors like type, brand reputation, price-quality ratio, and sustainability, aims to assist individuals seeking to incorporate MCTs into their routine. However, if you decide to incorporate MCT oils into your routine, it is best to consult your physician.
Find out other products for your health
If you are looking for ways to manage your weight, check out the best intermittent fasting apps article.
We also prepared a list of the best natural supplements for weight loss that may support weight management efforts.
If you are trying to improve your performance in the gym, it is worth exploring the best supplements for muscle recovery.
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For those aiming to enhance their ketone levels and improve metabolic efficiency, exploring the best ketone drinks is highly recommended.
FAQ
What is the best MCT oil for keto?
Choosing the best MCT oil for a ketogenic diet will depend on various factors, including personal preferences and budget. Look for MCT oil without any additional ingredients that may not be keto-friendly.
Are MCT oils safe for daily use?
Yes, some people can take MCT oil daily in lower doses. However, you should avoid MCT oil altogether if you have cardiovascular or liver conditions. Please consult your doctor if you want to consume MCT oil every day.
Which MCT oil is most suitable for weight loss?
C6-C12, especially C8, and C10, are most widely researched in regard to weight loss. However, as of now, the scientific proof that MCT oil consumption may lead to weight loss is extremely scarce.
5 resources
- EFSA Journal. Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to medium-chain triglycerides and reduction in body weight (ID 643, 677, 1614) pursuant to Article 13(1) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006.
- The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Weight-loss diet that includes consumption of medium-chain triacylglycerol oil leads to a greater rate of weight and fat mass loss than does olive oil.
- Nutrients. Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Health: The Potential Beneficial Effects of a Medium Chain Triglyceride Diet in Obese Individuals.
- The Journal of Nutrition. Physiological Effects of Medium-Chain Triglycerides: Potential Agents in the Prevention of Obesity.
- The Journal of Frailty & Aging. Effects of Timing of Medium-Chain Triglycerides (8:0 and 10:0) Supplementation during the Day on Muscle Mass, Function and Cognition in Frail Elderly Adults.
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