MCT Oil Research

All the medium chain fatty acids normally found in coconut oil, including caprylic acid (C-8), capric acid (C-10), and lauric acid (C-12) are known to have the advantage of being easily transported into the mitochondria and therefore, more immediately available for caloric energy.

Unfortunately, most purified MCT oils on the market forget about the longest carbon chain fatty acid and contain far less lauric acid, which means you’re losing out on one of the better medium chain fatty acids that are normally found in coconut oil.

The Effect of Lauric Acid on Satiety

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and cholecystokinin (CCK) mediate the feedback control of eating behavior. Lauric acid has a major effect on satiety and energy intake via CCK and GLP-1 (two gut hormones involved in satiety) by increasing their concentrations.

These two hormones increase satiety and reduce the desire to eat by slowing gastric emptying so you end up reducing food intake. This is not the case for capric or caprylic acids, and so, is a unique feature of lauric acid. There may also be an added benefit of lauric acid promoting insulin sensitivity via GLP-1, which is known to increase insulin sensitivity in some cell types.

Recognition to Dr. Rhonda Patrick at FoundMyFitness.com for assistance with the research.