Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. While medication is often the go-to treatment, some individuals are turning to alternative remedies, such as MCT oil.
MCTs, or medium-chain triglycerides, have been shown to improve cognitive function and provide the brain with a rapid source of energy. In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits of MCT oil for those with ADHD and whether it can be an effective adjunct treatment.
So, if you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD, keep reading to learn more about this natural remedy.
Can MCT Oil Help ADHD?
MCT oil has been found to have several potential benefits for those with ADHD. One of the main benefits is its ability to improve cognitive function. MCTs provide the brain with a rapid source of energy in the form of ketones, which have been shown to enhance cognition. This can help increase the ability to focus, thus reducing symptoms of ADHD.
In addition, MCTs have been found to have antimicrobial properties that play an important role in killing bacteria such as Streptococcus, Shigella, and Escherichia. This can promote a healthy digestive system, which is important for overall health and well-being.
MCT oil has also been found to help with weight loss and maintenance without increasing blood cholesterol levels. It decreases food consumption, promotes satiety, and increases oxidation of fats and expenditure of energy.
Furthermore, MCT oil has been found to have a positive impact on conditions such as epilepsy, autism, and Alzheimer’s. Incorporating MCT oil into your diet may help improve the symptoms of ADHD. However, it is important to consult with your doctor before doing so and start with a lower dosage of 1-2 tsp per day for a week and then gradually increase to a maximum of 2 tbsp per day. Use pure MCT oil with only capric acid, caprylic acid, or a combination of both for best results.
Understanding ADHD And Its Treatment Options
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD can have a significant impact on an individual’s daily life, including their ability to focus, learn, and socialize.
There are several treatment options available for those with ADHD, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. However, many individuals are turning to natural remedies such as MCT oil to help manage their symptoms.
Licensed naturopathic doctors (NDs) excel at treating ADHD because they focus on treating the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. Understanding how each person is experiencing their ADHD symptoms and discovering what is most limiting for them is important in the naturopathic approach. These treatments include clinical nutrition, behavioral medicine, and botanical medicine. Depending on the individual, naturopathic treatment can support conventional care or be a primary treatment.
MCT oil is one natural remedy that has shown potential benefits for those with ADHD. As mentioned earlier, MCTs provide the brain with a rapid source of energy in the form of ketones, which have been shown to enhance cognition. This can help increase the ability to focus and reduce symptoms of ADHD.
In addition to MCT oil, other natural remedies such as omega-3 supplements and phosphatidylserine (PS) may also help manage ADHD symptoms. Omega-3 supplements have been found to improve attention and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity in children with ADHD. PS is a nutritional compound that helps form the outer covering of cells, including brain cells. Studies show that adding PS to omega-3s improves ADHD symptoms.
It is important to note that while natural remedies such as MCT oil may have potential benefits for those with ADHD, they should not be used as a standalone treatment. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplements or lifestyle changes into your routine.
What Is MCT Oil And How Does It Work?
MCT oil is a dietary supplement derived from coconut oil that contains medium-chain triglyceride fatty acids. These fatty acids are metabolized differently in the body than other fats, as they do not require bile acids to be broken down and go directly to the liver, making them a quick source of energy for the body. MCTs are easily digested and are not stored as fat, but can be turned into ketones which can cross the blood-brain barrier and be used as a rapid energy source for the brain.
MCT oil has been found to have several potential health benefits, including improved cognitive function, weight loss, and antimicrobial properties. It has also been found to have a positive impact on conditions such as epilepsy, autism, and Alzheimer’s.
For those with ADHD, incorporating MCT oil into their diet may help improve symptoms by providing the brain with a rapid source of energy in the form of ketones, which have been shown to enhance cognition. However, it is important to consult with a doctor before doing so and start with a lower dosage before gradually increasing to a maximum of 2 tbsp per day. Use pure MCT oil with only capric acid, caprylic acid, or a combination of both for best results.
The Link Between MCT Oil And Cognitive Function
MCT oil has been found to improve cognitive function among those with neurodegenerative diseases and memory impairment, making it a viable adjunct treatment for those with ADHD. The brain is an obligate glucose user, and ADHD is associated with impaired cerebral glucose metabolism. Ketones are an alternative source of cerebral fuel, and MCT oil is a nutritional source of ketones.
A study found that consistent MCT oil intake stabilizes cognition in Alzheimer’s disease subjects, especially in mild to moderate disease. The purpose of the study was to use MCT oil supplementation to address some of the gaps in the current literature, including its effect on cognition in subjects with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease, the effect of longer duration (> 6 months), and the tolerance and safety (weight, lipid profile) with longer duration therapy. The study hypothesized that intermittent elevation of serum BHB, provided by regular ingestion of MCT oil, would result in stabilization or improvement of cognitive function in subjects with mild–moderate Alzheimer’s disease, without significant cardiovascular safety concerns.
Another study found that when MCT oil was given to adults with mild cognitive impairment, they experienced significant improvement in memory recall within 90 minutes of taking their first dose. MCT oil can also enhance the structure of the brain and boost memory.
MCT Oil As An Alternative Treatment For ADHD
MCT oil has been studied as a potential alternative treatment for ADHD. Its ability to improve cognitive function and increase focus can help reduce symptoms of ADHD. MCTs provide the brain with a rapid source of energy in the form of ketones, which have been shown to enhance cognition. While MCT oil may not be an effective standalone treatment for ADHD, it may be a viable adjunct treatment.
In addition to its cognitive benefits, MCT oil has antimicrobial properties that can promote a healthy digestive system. This is important for overall health and well-being, as gut health has been linked to various mental health conditions.
MCT oil has also been found to help with weight loss and maintenance without increasing blood cholesterol levels. It decreases food consumption, promotes satiety, and increases oxidation of fats and expenditure of energy. This can be beneficial for those with ADHD who struggle with impulse control and eating habits.
It is important to consult with a doctor before incorporating MCT oil into your diet as a treatment for ADHD. Starting with a lower dosage and gradually increasing to a maximum of 2 tbsp per day is recommended. Pure MCT oil with only capric acid, caprylic acid, or a combination of both should be used for best results. Overall, MCT oil may be a promising alternative treatment for ADHD, but more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and limitations.
Research Studies On MCT Oil And ADHD
Several research studies have investigated the potential benefits of MCT oil for those with ADHD. One study found that meta-cognitive therapy (MCT), a method of skills teaching by use of cognitive-behavioral principles, yielded significantly greater improvements in symptoms of ADHD in adults than those that participate in supportive therapy. The study also found that MCTs tend to improve cognitive function among those with neurodegenerative diseases and memory impairment, making them a viable adjunct treatment for those with ADHD.
Another study aimed to provide preliminary data on the relationship of Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) to cognitive and electrophysiological measures of brain and behavioral functions in adults with ADHD and controls. The study measured the relationship of the various measures to blood levels of EFAs in ADHD cases and controls, and investigated the potential effects of dietary supplementation with EFAs on cognitive-electrophysiological and behavioral measures in ADHD cases. The study found that changes in neuronal activity and cognitive performance were related to behavioral and functional measures over time, suggesting that dietary supplementation with EFAs may be beneficial for those with ADHD.
A third study used medium chain triglyceride (MCT) ketogenic diet, which incorporates MCT oil, to investigate its impact on ADHD symptoms. The study found that MCT oil has proven health benefits, such as improved energy and cognitive performance, and may have a positive impact on conditions such as epilepsy, autism, and Alzheimer’s. Incorporating MCT oil into the diet may help improve the symptoms of ADHD.
How To Incorporate MCT Oil Into Your ADHD Treatment Plan
If you are considering incorporating MCT oil into your ADHD treatment plan, it is important to do so under the guidance of your doctor. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Consult with your doctor: Before starting to take MCT oil, talk to your doctor about whether it is safe for you to do so. They can advise you on the appropriate dosage and any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
2. Start with a low dosage: Begin with a low dosage of 1-2 teaspoons per day for a week and monitor how your body responds. Gradually increase the dosage up to a maximum of 2 tablespoons per day.
3. Choose pure MCT oil: Look for pure MCT oil that contains only capric acid, caprylic acid, or a combination of both. Avoid products that contain other oils or additives.
4. Incorporate into your diet: You can add MCT oil to your diet by mixing it into smoothies, coffee, or other beverages. You can also use it in cooking as a substitute for other oils.
5. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your ADHD symptoms after incorporating MCT oil into your diet. If you notice any improvements or side effects, discuss them with your doctor.
Incorporating MCT oil into your ADHD treatment plan may have potential benefits for cognitive function, weight loss, and digestive health. However, it is important to approach it cautiously and under the guidance of a medical professional.
