What Are Caprylic Acid, Tricaprin, and MCT Oil? | Ingredient Profile

Caprylic Acid, Tricaprin and MCT Supplements

Tricaprin, Caprylic Acid and MCT Oil are a category of supplements which have been rapidly growing in popularity in recent years. All of these supplements, while different, are sources of MCT's or Medium Chain Triglycerides. If you're not familiar or only vaguely familiar with MCT's they're a popular category of supplements for weight loss and MCT Oil gained a lot of attention in recent years due to the popularity of Bulletproof Coffee, a coffee drink consisting of black coffee, MCT Oil and high fat butter. In this post we'll be looking at Caprylic Acid, Tricaprin, and MCT Oil, what they are, how they differ from one another, the potential health benefits they offer, and we'll be discussing supplements containing these things.

WHAT IS CAPRYLIC ACID?

Caprylic Acid is one of the fatty acids which is found in coconut oil. Caprylic Acid is an MCT which is thought to have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties making it a popular supplement for those who suffer from inflammation and conditions which result from inflammation. Potential heath benefits of Caprylic Acid include potentially preventing yeast infections and other fungal infections, supporting skin health, and supporting digestive health and potentially helping to alleviate some digestive disorders.

WHAT IS TRICAPRIN?

Tricaprin is considered to be a class of MCT or Medium Chain Triglycerides. A recent study out of Osaka Japan recently found that Tricaprin is capable of "dramatically" reversing signs of heart disease in certain patients. Tricaprin is a commercially available food supplement or dietary supplement which promotes lipid breakdown by the heart muscles and which has also been found to result in a substantial regression of the triglyceride buildup in the blood vessels of the heart.

WHAT IS MCT OIL?

MCT Oil, short for Medium Chain Triglycerides are a pure form of fatty acids made up of a strings of connected carbon and hydrogen. Compared to longer chain fatty acids, MCT's are absorbed more easily by the body since there's less work for the body to do in breaking apart the carbon bonds. They can also more easily permeate our cell membranes and don't require special enzymes for our bodies to utilize them. There's several different forms of MCT's, these are caprioc acid (C6), caprylic acid (C8), capric acid (C10) and lauric acid (C12). MCTS's have a variety of potential health benefits including supporting weight loss, protecting the heart and supporting heart health, improving energy levels, and mood, and supporting digestion.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CAPRYLIC ACID, TRICAPRIN, AND MCT OIL

Studies and research show that caprylic acid, tricaprin and MCT oil may have numerous potential health benefits including supporting weight loss and boosting metabolism, improving endurance and athletic performance, helping to support immune system function, and possessing brain boosting cognitive benefits in addition to having anti-inflammatory properties.

HOW TO TAKE CAPRYLIC ACID, TRICAPRIN AND MCT OIL SUPPLEMENTS?

MCT Oil Supplements as well a Caprylic Acid, and Tricaprin come in a variety of forms including liquids, capsules, and powders. Depending upon which form you choose to take will dictate how you take them.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM THESE SUPPLEMENTS?

Almost everyone could benefit in one way or another from taking MCT Oil, Caprylic Acid, and/or Tricaprin supplements, however these supplements could be particularly beneficial to you if you're looking for additional energy without having to use stimulants. Tricaprin is a MCT that quickly metabolizes allowing the body to use it as an energy source. Tricaprin and MCT Oil are particularly popular among those on the Keto Diet and those on low carb diets.

These supplements can also be beneficial to those seeking weight loss. Recent research suggest that MCT's including Tricaprin and Caprylic Acid may aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism and helping to provide satiety and reduce appetite while curbing cravings.

These supplements may also be beneficial for those looking to improve cognitive function and/or exercise performance. MCT's are sometimes used by athletes as a source of energy and to improve athletic performance with some studies suggesting that MCT's could help to boost endurance and reduce fatigue during exercise, athletics and training. MCT's may also help to improve cognition. Recent studies show that MCT's including Caprylic Acid and Tricaprin may help to improve cognition in people with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's Disease.

WHAT FOODS CONTAIN MCT'S, TRICAPRIN AND CAPRYLIC ACID? CAN I GET THEM FROM MY DIET?

While MCT's have become a popular category of dietary supplement, they can be derived from natural sources and your foods as well. Foods rich in MCT's include coconut and palm kernel and caprylic acid and tricaprin are found in products like milk, butter, and cheese among others. Goat Milk in particular is a natural source rich in MCT's and Caprylic Acid.

WHAT SUPPLEMENTS CONTAIN MCT'S, TRICAPRIN AND CAPRYLIC ACID?

Now Foods Caprylic Acid 600 Mg 100 Softgels

$7.99

NOW Foods Caprylic Acid 600mg 100 Softgels NOW® Caprylic Acid is a naturally derived nutrient traditionally used to support internal wellness. Also known as octanoic acid, Caprylic Acid is a short-to-medium chain fatty acid (MCT) that is naturally found in coconut and palm kernel oil. Caprylic Acid supports healthy digestion through its ability to promote a healthy balance of intestinal flora. Supports Healthy Intestinal Flora* Directions As a dietary supplement, take 1 softgel twice daily with ...

Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Keto Lean 120 Caps

$34.95

Keto Supplement - Hi-Tech Keto Lean Get Keto Products Here At Best Price Nutrition!! If you're looking for a supplement to help aid you during your Ketogenic journey, look no further. Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals has just released their brand new Keto diet pill coined "Keto Lean." This product is packed with ingredients that'll surely help you to achieve your diet goals. It'll help your body accelerate Ketosis & also give you sustained energy! If you're on the Keto diet, this is definitely a product ...

Now Foods Coconut Oil 1000mg 120 Softgels

$9.99

Now Foods Coconut Oil 1000mg 120 Softgels Coconut Oil has long been a dietary staple of people in Asia, Africa and the Pacific Islands, it's also long been used in Ayurvedic Medicine. Now Foods Virgin Coconut Oil is unrefined cold pressed coconut oil and no solvents are used in the manufacturing process. Each serving contains 3 grams of Organic Virgin Coconut Oil and 1.5 grams of MCT's. Now Foods Coconut Oil 120 Softgels Highlights & Benefits May Encourage Fat Burning May Provide a Fast Source o ...

Now Foods MCT Oil 32 Fl Oz

$19.99

Now Foods MCT Oil 32 Fl Oz Medium Chain Triglycerides aka MCT's or MCT Oil is a type of fat found in coconut and palm oils and which in recent years has been gaining popularity due to the Bulletproof Coffee craze where people add MCT Oil and High Fat Butter to their coffee for increased energy levels and weight loss support, though MCT oil also may help to improve mental focus and concentration. Now Foods MCT Oil is Halal and Kosher as well as Vegan and Vegetarian Friendly. Now Foods MCT Oil 32 ...

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE TAKING MCT OIL, CAPRYLIC ACID OR TRICAPRIN SUPPLEMENTS

Do Tricaprin, Caprylic Acid or MCT Oil Have Side Effects?

These supplements have few reported side effects, however potential side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Users can reduce the chance of side effects by beginning with a small dose to assess tolerance.

How Do Tricaprylin & Caprylic Acid Differ?

Tricaprylin and Carpylic Acid are related, but are not the same thing. Tricarylin is a triglyceride made up of three caprylic acid molecules bound to a glycerol molecule. Caprylic Acid on the other hand is an MCT that contains 8 carbon atoms. Tricaprylin is often used to manage metabolic disorders. Caprylic Acid is used as a supplement to support weight loss and to potentially boost cognitive function. Tricaprylin and Caprylic Acid are both derived from coconut and palm oils, however they have a different molecular structure and support different functions within the body.

Does Tricaprin Help Support Heart Health?

It's believed that MCT's may help to decrease LDL or "the bad cholesterol". Research suggest that MCT's may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which could help to support heart health and prevent cardiovascular disease.

What Should I Know Before Taking MCT Oil?

MCT Oils should be taken in moderation as they are a highly concentrated source of calories. Taking too much MCT Oil could lead to weight gain or digestive discomfort.

REFERENCES

Zhang X, Xue C, Xu Q, Zhang Y, Li H, Li F, Liu Y, Guo C. Caprylic acid suppresses inflammation via TLR4/NF-κB signaling and improves atherosclerosis in ApoE-deficient mice. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2019 Jun 6;16:40. doi: 10.1186/s12986-019-0359-2. PMID: 31182969; PMCID: PMC6555760.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6555760/

Hara Y, Zhang B, Suzuki A, Yamaguchi S, Adachi J, Tomonaga T, Yasunaga S, Saku K, Aoyama T, Hirano KI. Effect of Tricaprin on Cardiac Proteome in a Mouse Model for Triglyceride Deposit Cardiomyovasculopathy. J Oleo Sci. 2020 Nov 25;69(12):1569-1577. doi: 10.5650/jos.ess20185. Epub 2020 Nov 12. PMID: 33177279.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33177279/

Wang Y, Liu Z, Han Y, Xu J, Huang W, Li Z. Medium Chain Triglycerides enhances exercise endurance through the increased mitochondrial biogenesis and metabolism. PLoS One. 2018 Feb 8;13(2):e0191182. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191182. PMID: 29420554; PMCID: PMC5805166.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5805166/

May 20th 2023

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†The content of this blog post is intended solely for reference and entertainment purposes. We do not offer medical advice or specific guidance regarding the products discussed. Our insights are based on a combination of anecdotal experiences, online studies/reviews, manufacturer details, and customer feedback. While we strive to present accurate and current information, we cannot assure its completeness or its alignment with the most recent product formulations or data. For any concerns or up-to-date information, we recommend visiting the manufacturer's website directly. The opinions and information provided here do not necessarily reflect the views of Best Price Nutrition; they represent the perspectives and information from the manufacturers and users. Furthermore, these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or illness.