Are you confused about the difference between MCT oil and monolaurin?
You’re not alone. These two substances are often mentioned together in health and wellness circles, but they are not the same thing.
While both offer unique benefits, it’s important to understand the differences between them in order to make informed decisions about your health.
In this article, we’ll explore the distinctions between MCT oil and monolaurin, and how they can be used to support your overall well-being.
So, let’s dive in and learn more!
Is MCT Oil And Monolaurin The Same?
No, MCT oil and monolaurin are not the same thing. MCT oil is a type of oil that contains medium-chain triglycerides, which are metabolized differently than other types of fats. Monolaurin, on the other hand, is a monoglyceride that is derived from lauric acid.
While both MCT oil and monolaurin offer unique benefits, they are not interchangeable. MCT oil is often used to support weight loss and increase energy levels, while monolaurin is known for its antimicrobial properties and immune system support.
It’s important to note that while MCT oil contains some lauric acid, it does not contain enough to provide the same benefits as monolaurin. Additionally, MCT oil is often derived from coconut oil, which contains more lauric acid than MCT oil itself.
Understanding MCT Oil: What Is It And How Is It Made?
MCT oil is a type of oil that contains medium-chain triglycerides. Triglycerides are the molecules that make up most fats. MCTs are found in coconut oil, palm oil, goat milk, and even breast milk. Unlike other types of fats, MCTs are metabolized differently by the body. Instead of being stored as fat, MCTs are quickly absorbed and turned into molecules called ketones. Ketones are a source of energy that helps burn fat, curb cravings, and power the brain.
MCT oil is typically extracted from coconut oil or palm oil, but it can also be found naturally in human breast milk and dairy products. The following fatty acids are MCTs: caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, and lauric acid. MCT oil is more concentrated in certain types such as caprylic acid and capric acid.
To make MCT oil, the oil is extracted from coconut or palm kernels and then processed to remove the long-chain fatty acids. The resulting product is a concentrated form of MCTs that can be used as a dietary supplement.
It’s important to note that while MCT oil offers many health benefits, it should be used in moderation. Consuming too much MCT oil can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea and stomach cramps. It’s also important to choose a high-quality MCT oil that is free from additives and fillers.
The Health Benefits Of MCT Oil
MCT oil offers a range of health benefits that make it a popular choice for many people. One of the most well-known benefits is its ability to support weight loss. MCTs are metabolized differently than other types of fats, and they are quickly converted into ketones, which the body can use for energy. This means that MCT oil can help to increase the number of calories you burn, leading to greater weight loss over time.
In addition to weight loss, MCT oil has also been shown to improve brain function. Ketones are a preferred source of energy for the brain, and studies have found that MCT oil can help to improve cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. MCT oil may also help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can contribute to a range of neurological disorders.
Finally, MCT oil has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which means that it can help to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses in the body. This makes it a great choice for people who are looking to boost their immune system and reduce their risk of infection.
Monolaurin: What Is It And Where Does It Come From?
Monolaurin is a chemical compound that is derived from lauric acid, which is found in coconut oil and human breast milk. It was first discovered in the 1960s and has since been studied for its potential health benefits.
Mothers naturally produce monolaurin in breastmilk, and coconut oil is the best natural source of lauric acid in the diet. Coconut oil is made up of predominantly medium-chain triglycerides, with lauric acid being one of the most abundant. When consumed, the body converts lauric acid into monolaurin.
Monolaurin has been found to have distinct benefits from lauric acid, as it works as one of nature’s best antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal compounds. It may also help balance hormones, cholesterol, and metabolic health. However, researchers are unsure of the conversion rates of lauric acid obtained through foods like coconut oil or coconut to monolaurin in the body. Because of this fact, it is unknown how much coconut oil or coconut one would need to ingest to receive a therapeutic dose of monolaurin.
Monolaurin can be taken daily as a dietary supplement and is available at health food stores, vitamin shops, and online retailers like Amazon. It hasn’t been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a treatment for any medical condition, so there are no standard dosing guidelines. However, Dr. Jon Kabara, who first reported on monolaurin and now markets it under the brand name Lauricidin, suggests that people age 12 and older start with 750 milligrams (mg) of monolaurin two to three times per day. From there, he suggests they work their way up to 3000 mg, two to three times per day.
The Health Benefits Of Monolaurin
Monolaurin has been found to have several health benefits. One of the most notable benefits is its ability to fight against viruses and bacteria. Monolaurin has been shown to be effective against a wide range of viruses, including the flu, herpes, and HIV. It works by disrupting the lipid membranes of these viruses, which makes it difficult for them to survive and replicate.
Aside from its antiviral properties, monolaurin also has antibacterial properties. It has been found to be effective against several types of bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Monolaurin works by disrupting the cell membranes of these bacteria, which causes them to die.
Monolaurin has also been found to have immune system boosting properties. It helps to activate macrophages, which are white blood cells that help to fight off infections. Additionally, monolaurin has been shown to increase the production of cytokines, which are proteins that help to regulate the immune response.
Another benefit of monolaurin is its ability to support healthy skin. It helps to moisturize and protect the skin, while also helping to reduce inflammation and redness.
Key Differences Between MCT Oil And Monolaurin
One key difference between MCT oil and monolaurin is their chemical structure. MCT oil is made up of medium-chain triglycerides, which are broken down and metabolized differently than other types of fats. Monolaurin, on the other hand, is a monoglyceride that is derived from lauric acid.
Another difference is their benefits. MCT oil is often used to support weight loss and increase energy levels, while monolaurin is known for its antimicrobial properties and immune system support. While both offer unique benefits, they are not interchangeable.
It’s also important to note that MCT oil contains some lauric acid, but not enough to provide the same benefits as monolaurin. Coconut oil, on the other hand, contains more lauric acid than MCT oil itself.
Lastly, the sources of MCT oil and monolaurin differ. MCT oil is often derived from coconut oil or palm oil, while monolaurin can be found in coconut milk or breast milk.
How To Choose Between MCT Oil And Monolaurin
When it comes to choosing between MCT oil and monolaurin, it’s important to consider your specific health goals. If you’re looking to support weight loss and increase energy levels, MCT oil may be the better choice for you. However, if you’re looking for immune system support and antimicrobial properties, monolaurin may be the way to go.
It’s also important to note that while MCT oil is often derived from coconut oil, it does not provide the same benefits as coconut oil itself due to its lower lauric acid content. If you’re looking for the immune-boosting benefits of lauric acid, consuming coconut oil or monolaurin directly may be the better choice.
Another factor to consider is sustainability and environmental impact. MCT oil derived from palm oil can be destructive to the environment and the people who manufacture it. It’s important to look for sustainably harvested and fair trade options if you choose to use MCT oil.
Ultimately, the choice between MCT oil and monolaurin depends on your individual health goals and values. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can also help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
