Are you following the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet and wondering if MCT oil is compliant?
You’re not alone.
MCT oil has been gaining popularity in the health and wellness world, but it’s important to know if it fits within the guidelines of your dietary restrictions.
In this article, we’ll explore what MCT oil is, its potential benefits, and whether or not it’s AIP compliant.
So, grab a cup of tea and let’s dive in!
Is MCT Oil AIP Compliant?
MCT oil, or medium-chain triglyceride oil, is a type of oil that is derived from coconut oil or palm kernel oil. It is made up of medium-chain fatty acids, which are easier for the body to digest and convert into energy compared to long-chain fatty acids.
While MCT oil is not explicitly mentioned in the AIP guidelines, it is generally considered compliant as it is a natural and unprocessed oil. However, it’s important to note that some people with autoimmune conditions may have sensitivities or intolerances to certain foods, including coconut products.
If you are unsure whether or not MCT oil is right for you, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian who can help you determine if it fits within your individual dietary needs.
What Is MCT Oil?
MCT oil is a dietary supplement that is made from medium-chain triglycerides, a type of fat found in oils such as coconut and palm oil. MCT oil gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits, which include increased energy, appetite control, and improved gut health. MCT oil is often distilled from coconut oil, which is made from the tropical fruit. It can also be found in MCT powder, which is manufactured with MCT oil, dairy proteins, carbohydrates, fillers, and sweeteners.
MCT molecules are smaller than those in most of the fats you eat (long-chain triglycerides [LCT]). This makes them easier to digest and absorb into your bloodstream quickly. Due to their shorter length, MCTs are more easily digested than longer-chain fatty acids found in many other foods. MCT oil is most commonly extracted from coconut oil, as more than 50% of the fat in coconut oil comes from MCTs. These fats are also found in other foods, such as palm oil and dairy products. Four different types of MCTs exist, of which caprylic and capric acid are most commonly used for MCT oil. In some cases, these specific types have unique benefits.
MCT oil is often used by athletes and bodybuilders as a supplement due to its potential benefits for reducing body fat, increasing fullness, and improving gut health. It may also help increase energy, fight bacterial growth, protect your heart, and manage certain neurological conditions. The popularity of coconut oil, high in MCTs, has contributed to its use.
Potential Benefits Of MCT Oil
MCT oil has been shown to have a variety of potential benefits for overall health and wellness. One of the most notable benefits is its ability to promote weight loss. While the evidence is mixed, some studies have found that MCT oil can increase satiety and raise metabolic rate, leading to modest weight loss over time. Additionally, MCT oil has been used therapeutically for people with malabsorption problems, like Crohn’s Disease, and can be beneficial for anyone missing a gallbladder.
MCT oil may also have benefits for metabolic function and hormonal balance. Studies have shown that MCTs can aid in treating diabetes, hypertension, and other elements of the metabolic syndrome. MCTs are also a powerful ketogenic fat, meaning they can help increase the number of carbs you can eat while staying in ketosis.
Furthermore, MCT oil is a great source of essential fatty acids that your body needs for optimal health. It can help boost energy levels, enhance mental focus, fight inflammation, and support healthy cholesterol levels.
When choosing an MCT oil, it’s important to look for a pure, cold-pressed, and non-GMO coconut-based MCT oil that is extracted and purified with enzymes rather than harsh chemicals. While MCT oil is generally considered AIP compliant, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine if it fits within your individual dietary needs.
Understanding The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet
The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet is a therapeutic approach to managing autoimmune diseases. It focuses on eliminating foods that can trigger inflammation and cause leaky gut, while providing the body with nutrient-dense foods that support gut health and reduce inflammation. The AIP diet is designed to be an elimination diet, where you remove certain types of food and then slowly reintroduce them to assess their tolerance.
The AIP diet is stricter than the Paleo diet, as it eliminates many foods that are allowed on the Paleo diet, such as nuts, seeds, eggs, and dairy products. The first phase of the AIP diet restricts many types of foods that can cause inflammation and leaky gut, including grains, legumes, nightshades, processed foods, and industrial seed oils. Foods are then slowly reintroduced and assessed for tolerance.
The AIP diet encourages the consumption of nutrient-dense foods such as colorful fruits and vegetables, meat and seafood, glycine-rich foods, and fermented foods. It also recommends healthy lifestyle changes such as sufficient sleep, stress management, and activity as these are important immune modulators.
It’s important to note that the AIP diet may not offer any advantages over a basic healthy diet for everyone. Scientists are only beginning to tap into the relationship between food and inflammation, and the link between metabolism and the immune system is not well understood. However, for those with autoimmune conditions, following medical advice from a trained physician or dietitian is crucial.
AIP Restrictions On Oils And Fats
The autoimmune protocol, or AIP, is a dietary approach that eliminates foods that are known to trigger inflammation and autoimmune reactions in the body. While fats are an important part of a healthy diet, not all fats are created equal, and there are restrictions on the types of oils and fats that are allowed on the AIP.
Saturated fats, such as those found in animal fats and tropical oils like coconut oil, are considered the most stable and best for cooking on the AIP. Monounsaturated fats, found in foods like olives, avocados, and nuts, should not be cooked with and should be kept away from heat sources. Polyunsaturated fats, such as those found in seed oils like canola, soybean, and sunflower oil, are highly unstable and should be avoided on the AIP.
It’s important to note that while nuts and seeds are high in unsaturated fats and other important nutrients, seed oils are refined and altered, making them not the best choice of oil to consume. Unrefined seed oils like flaxseed oil may have some health benefits but should be consumed in moderation.
When sourcing healthy fats for your pantry on the AIP, it’s essential to choose high-quality animal products that have been raised organically and grass-fed or pastured. For tropical oils like coconut or palm oil, make sure to buy organic. For olive and avocado oils, purchase from a reputable company that cold-presses and stores their product in dark containers to prevent oxidation.
Alternatives To MCT Oil On The AIP Diet
If you are following the AIP diet and looking for alternatives to MCT oil, there are several options available that are compliant with the guidelines. Here are some alternatives to consider:
1. Avocado Oil: Avocado oil is a great alternative to MCT oil as it is high in monounsaturated fats and has a high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking at high temperatures. It is also rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
2. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a natural source of MCTs and is compliant with the AIP diet. It is also rich in lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties that can help support gut health. Coconut oil can be used in cooking or added to smoothies for an extra boost of healthy fats.
3. Palm Shortening: Palm shortening is a vegetable oil alternative that is made from sustainably sourced palm oil. It is solid at room temperature and has a neutral flavor, making it a great substitute for butter or other solid fats in baking recipes.
4. Toasted Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil is a flavorful oil that can be used in Asian-inspired dishes or as a finishing oil for salads or roasted vegetables. It has a nutty flavor and is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
When choosing an alternative to MCT oil on the AIP diet, it’s important to choose minimally processed oils that are rich in healthy fats and free from additives or preservatives. Incorporating these oils into your diet can help support overall health and wellbeing while staying compliant with the AIP guidelines.
