MCT oil has become a popular supplement in recent years due to its potential health benefits, including improved cognitive function and weight loss. However, as with any supplement, there are potential side effects to be aware of.
One of the most common concerns is whether MCT oil can make you dizzy. In this article, we’ll explore the possible causes of dizziness when taking MCT oil and what you can do to prevent it.
So, if you’re considering adding MCT oil to your diet, keep reading to learn more.
Can MCT Oil Make You Dizzy?
Dizziness is a potential side effect of MCT oil, but it is not very common. If you experience dizziness after taking MCT oil, it may be related to increased mental energy and/or anxiety from the MCTs. However, there are other factors that could contribute to dizziness as well.
For example, if you take MCT oil on an empty stomach, it can cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, stomach upsets, and diarrhea. These symptoms can also lead to dizziness. Additionally, if you consume MCT oil with coffee, the caffeine in the coffee can make some people feel dizzy.
It’s important to note that dizziness is not the only potential side effect of MCT oil. It can also cause heart palpitations and digestive distress in some people. Long-term use of MCT oil products could lead to fat building up in the liver as well.
What Is MCT Oil And How Does It Work In The Body?
MCT oil is a dietary supplement that is made up of medium-chain triglycerides, a type of fat found in oils like coconut and palm oil. MCTs are smaller in size than the long-chain triglycerides found in most fats, which makes them easier to digest and absorb into the bloodstream quickly. Once absorbed, MCTs are turned into energy that can be used by the body.
MCT oil has gained popularity due to its potential health benefits, including reducing body fat, increasing fullness, improving gut health, increasing energy, fighting bacterial growth, protecting the heart, and managing certain neurological conditions. MCT oil is commonly used by athletes and bodybuilders due to its ability to provide a quick burst of energy.
MCT oil is processed differently by the body than long-chain fatty acids. Unlike other fats, MCTs go straight from the gut to the liver where they are used as a source of energy or turned into ketones. Ketones are substances produced when the liver breaks down a lot of fat and can be used by the brain for energy instead of glucose or sugar.
The calories in MCTs are used straight away, making it less likely to be stored as fat. This principle is the basis of the ketogenic diet, which many people believe is an effective way to lose weight. MCT oil contains four different types of MCTs, with caprylic and capric acid being the most commonly used for MCT oil. These specific types may have unique benefits.
The Potential Benefits Of MCT Oil
Despite the potential side effects, MCT oil also offers several potential benefits for those who consume it. One of the most notable benefits is that it provides an immediate source of fat energy, which can result in a boost in mood and cognitive performance. This is because MCTs are easily converted into ketones, which the brain can use for energy.
MCT oil may also help with weight loss efforts. It has been shown to increase feelings of fullness and decrease calorie intake when consumed with a meal. Additionally, MCTs have been shown to increase the body’s ability to burn fat for energy, which can lead to greater weight loss over time.
MCT oil may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some studies have shown that MCTs can reduce inflammation in the body and improve insulin sensitivity. This could potentially reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Finally, MCT oil may also improve athletic performance. It has been shown to increase endurance during exercise and improve recovery time after workouts. This is because MCTs are quickly absorbed and metabolized by the body, providing a quick source of energy for muscles.
The Possible Side Effects Of MCT Oil
While MCT oil can offer an immediate source of fat energy and bring noted benefits such as a boost in mood and cognitive performance, it is not without potential side effects. One of the major side effects is gastrointestinal issues when used on an empty stomach. This can cause nausea, stomach upsets, and diarrhea, which can lead to dizziness.
In addition to gastrointestinal issues, MCT oil can also cause heart palpitations and digestive distress in some people. Long-term use of MCT oil products could lead to fat building up in the liver as well. Furthermore, MCT oil may cause calcium levels to rise in the blood, leading to a racing feeling.
It’s important to start with a small quantity of MCT oil at first and build up to no more than three or four teaspoons per day. If you experience any gastrointestinal problems like cramping or nausea, reduce your dose. Additionally, if you’ve never added MCT oil to any of your meals before, be sure to start slow and half the amount that a recipe calls for, or start with just a few drops to see how your body reacts at first.
Can MCT Oil Cause Dizziness?
MCT oil has been known to cause dizziness in some individuals, although it is not a very common reaction. If you experience dizziness after taking MCT oil, it may be related to increased mental energy and/or anxiety from the MCTs. However, there are other factors that could contribute to dizziness as well.
One of the major causes of dizziness when taking MCT oil is consuming it on an empty stomach. This can cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, stomach upsets, and diarrhea, which can also lead to dizziness. It is recommended to consume MCT oil with food or reduce the dosage if you experience these symptoms.
Another factor that could contribute to dizziness is consuming MCT oil with coffee. The caffeine in the coffee can make some people feel dizzy, especially if they are sensitive to caffeine.
It’s important to note that while MCT oil can offer benefits such as a boost in mood and cognitive performance, it is not without potential side effects. In some people, it may cause heart palpitations and digestive distress, and long-term use could lead to fat building up in the liver. If you experience any adverse effects from taking MCT oil, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before continuing use.
What Are The Possible Causes Of Dizziness When Taking MCT Oil?
There are several possible causes of dizziness when taking MCT oil. One factor could be related to increased mental energy and/or anxiety from the MCTs. Another factor could be taking MCT oil on an empty stomach, which can cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, stomach upsets, and diarrhea. These symptoms can also lead to dizziness.
Consuming MCT oil with coffee can also contribute to dizziness, as the caffeine in coffee can have this effect on some people. Additionally, taking large doses of MCT oil or powder may cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
It’s important to note that dizziness is not the only potential side effect of MCT oil. It can also cause heart palpitations and digestive distress in some people. Long-term use of MCT oil products could lead to fat building up in the liver as well.
If you experience dizziness or any other side effects after taking MCT oil, it’s important to consult with a physician. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid taking the supplement, as the effects are not fully clear yet. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes or liver disease like cirrhosis should also avoid taking it. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your diet.
How To Prevent Dizziness When Taking MCT Oil
If you want to prevent dizziness when taking MCT oil, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure to take MCT oil with food, rather than on an empty stomach. This can help prevent gastrointestinal issues that can lead to dizziness.
Additionally, if you consume MCT oil with coffee, try reducing your caffeine intake or switching to decaf. Caffeine can make some people feel dizzy, and consuming it alongside MCT oil could exacerbate this effect.
It’s also important to start with a small dosage of MCT oil and gradually increase it over time. This can help your body adjust to the supplement and minimize any potential side effects.
If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns about taking MCT oil, it’s always best to consult with a physician before starting a new supplement regimen. They can provide personalized recommendations and ensure that MCT oil is safe for you to use.
