Differences in LCT and MCT oils

Tuesday, April 8

Q: I'm curious about the differences in LCT and MCT oils... I thought olive oil was more healthy (being mono-unsaturated) than most other oils... What are some examples of MCT oils?

Ans: The monounsaturated Omega-9 fats such as olive oil are very healthy indeed. Different fats are healthy for different reasons, not necessarily one being healthier than another.

Saturated fats such as the medium chain triglycerides (MCT) serve very important functions in human health. Coconut oil is a major source of MCTs such as lauric, caprylic and capric acids which are used primarily for energy and are quite effective in fat loss (see April 2 post). Lauric acid in particular possesses special antimicrobial properties (antiviral, antibacterial and antiprotozoal), is present in human milk, and critical in infant nutrition.

You see, not all saturated fats are bad. This is yet another example of oversimplification in nutrition. Unfortunately, pop science coupled with media misinterpretation usually equals disaster and confusion for public health. I prefer to keep company with real science.