Are you considering adding MCT oil to your diet but worried about the potential side effect of diarrhea?
You’re not alone. Many people have experienced this unpleasant symptom after incorporating MCT oil into their routine.
But how long does it last? Is there anything you can do to prevent it?
In this article, we’ll explore the causes of MCT oil-induced diarrhea and provide tips on how to minimize its effects.
So, if you’re curious about this popular health supplement and want to learn more, keep reading!
How Long Does MCT Oil Diarrhea Last?
MCT oil-induced diarrhea is a common side effect that can occur when you first start using this supplement. The duration of this symptom can vary from person to person, but it typically lasts for a few days to a few weeks.
During this time, your body is adjusting to the high concentration of medium-chain triglycerides in the oil. As your body adapts, the diarrhea should gradually subside.
It’s important to note that if you experience severe or prolonged diarrhea, you should consult with a healthcare professional. This could be a sign of an underlying medical condition or an allergic reaction to the oil.
What Is MCT Oil And Why Is It Popular?
MCT oil is a type of oil that is made up of medium-chain triglycerides. These triglycerides are smaller molecules of fat than long-chain triglycerides, which means that they are more easily absorbed by the liver and can provide a faster source of energy for the body. MCT oil is typically derived from coconut or palm oils and contains high amounts of capric and caprylic acids.
MCT oil has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits, including weight loss, improved cognitive function, and increased energy levels. However, it’s important to note that the research behind these claims is still limited and inconclusive.
While MCT oil is generally considered safe for most people, it can cause diarrhea as a side effect. This is because the oil is quickly absorbed by the body, bypassing the digestive process and potentially causing irritation in the gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, MCT oil contains glycerin which can act as a hyper-osmotic laxative and draw water into the colon, resulting in softer stools.
To prevent or reduce the risk of MCT oil-induced diarrhea, it’s recommended to start with a small dose and gradually increase it over time. It’s also important to take MCT oil with food and to split up the serving throughout the day. If you experience severe or prolonged diarrhea, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions or allergies.
What Causes MCT Oil Diarrhea?
MCT oil-induced diarrhea occurs due to the quick absorption of the medium-chain triglycerides in the oil. MCT oil is easily and quickly absorbed by the body because it is already broken down, which allows it to bypass the digestive process. This can cause irritation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, leading to diarrhea as the body tries to get rid of the cause as quickly as possible.
In addition, MCT oil contains glycerin, which is a hyper-osmotic laxative that draws water into the colon from surrounding tissues to increase the softness of stools. Consuming too much MCT oil can cause this effect, leading to diarrhea.
Moreover, MCT oil contains isolated fatty acids like caprylic acid that are digested quickly and may mildly bother the gut lining at high doses. This irritation can signal your digestive system to dump, causing diarrhea.
Lastly, taking MCT oil with coffee can enhance the stimulatory effect of caffeine and trigger a bowel movement. Therefore, it’s recommended to take MCT oil with food or split up your serving throughout the day to minimize side effects.
Tips For Minimizing MCT Oil Diarrhea
If you’re experiencing diarrhea after taking MCT oil, there are a few tips you can follow to minimize this side effect:
1. Start with a small dose: Begin with one teaspoon of MCT oil and gradually work your way up to one tablespoon. This will allow your body to adjust to the oil more slowly and minimize the risk of diarrhea.
2. Take it with food: Taking MCT oil with food can help to slow down its absorption and reduce the risk of diarrhea. Try adding it to a smoothie or mixing it into your oatmeal.
3. Split up your doses: Instead of taking one large dose of MCT oil, try splitting it up into smaller doses throughout the day. This can help your body to digest the oil more efficiently and reduce the risk of diarrhea.
4. Consider taking a digestive enzyme: Taking a digestive enzyme that contains lipase can help your body to break down the MCT oil more effectively and reduce the risk of diarrhea.
5. Be patient: It may take some time for your body to adjust to MCT oil. If you experience diarrhea in the first few weeks, try sticking with a smaller dose and gradually increasing it over time. Your body will eventually adapt and the diarrhea should subside.
Remember, MCT oil-induced diarrhea is a common side effect that can be minimized with proper dosing and timing. If you experience severe or prolonged diarrhea, consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions or allergies.
When To See A Doctor About MCT Oil Diarrhea
If you experience MCT oil-induced diarrhea for an extended period of time or if the diarrhea is severe, it’s important to seek medical attention. This could be a sign of an underlying gastrointestinal issue or an allergic reaction to the oil.
Additionally, if you have a pre-existing medical condition such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it’s important to consult with your doctor before adding MCT oil to your diet. These conditions can make you more susceptible to digestive issues and may exacerbate any symptoms caused by MCT oil.
If you’re experiencing mild diarrhea from MCT oil, there are a few steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms. First, try reducing your dosage and gradually increasing it over time. Taking MCT oil with food may also help reduce the likelihood of diarrhea. Finally, if you’re experiencing discomfort, consider taking a break from using MCT oil until your symptoms subside.
