The numbers on intermittent fasting and its associated products are on the rise. Coffee mixed with medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil has been touted as the ideal choice for people who are trying to reignite their diet and get healthy. While most claim that consuming coffee with MCT oil does not break a fast, the debate is still ongoing. Let us look at the facts to see if this is true or not.
The use of MCT oil as a supplement has grown in popularity over the last few years due to its ability to boost energy and weight loss. It is derived from coconut oil, palm oil and other natural sources, such as cow milk. MCT oil is known to help break down dietary fats and use them as fuel to provide energy. The fats derived from MCT oil are quickly absorbed and entered into the bloodstream, providing a quick and efficient energy source.
As far as MCT oil in coffee is concerned, it is said to be beneficial in terms of not only energy but also in terms of not breaking a fast. Therefore, when it comes to intermittent fasting, many people wonder whether having coffee with MCT oil breaks a fast. While some experts say that it does, many others argue that consuming coffee with MCT oil does not break a fast.
Generally speaking, intermittent fasting is the practice of fasting for 16–28 hours or more on alternate days. It is an effective way to burn fat and lose weight because when the body is not receiving any calories, it turns to stored sources of energy such as fat to fuel the body. Therefore, when people are on intermittent fasting and consuming only black coffee or coffee with MCT oil, it does not break the fast since these beverages do not contain any calories.
Furthermore, even if one adds a teaspoon of MCT or coconut oil to their coffee, some experts argue that this does not break a fast as it is still calorie-free. These experts argue that the MCT oil is often added to the coffee to increase its energy-boosting effects. Since it is calorie-free, it does not break the fast and should not be seen as breaking one’s fast.
While these experts may have valid points, another group of experts argue that adding MCT oil to coffee does break the fast since it does contain some calories. This argument is based on the fact that a single tablespoon of MCT oil can contain up to 120 calories. They argue that since calories are involved, adding MCT oil to coffee can technically break the fast.
Overall, while the debate on whether drinking coffee with MCT oil breaks a fast continues, the main points to consider are the amount of MCT oil being added and whether it is calorie-free or not. Drinking coffee with MCT oil that is calorie-free can be beneficial as it boosts energy while not breaking the fast, but adding considerable amounts of MCT oil that are calorie-filled could technically break one’s fast.
MCT Oil for Mental Focus
One of the benefits of MCT oil is its ability to help improve mental focus. Studies have shown that MCT oil can help speed up information processing, making it easier to focus on and retain information. High amounts of MCT oil can be beneficial for those with ADHD and other mental disorders, as it increases serotonin levels in the brain, which helps with the regulation of emotions and concentration.
MCT oil also helps reduce the production of free radicals in the brain, which can reduce the effects of aging on the brain. This can help improve overall mental performance. Additionally, MCT oil can help lower stress and anxiety levels by inducing relaxation and a sense of wellbeing.
When it comes to its ability to help with mental focus, MCT oil truly stands out. It not only helps increase energy and mental clarity, but it can also help improve overall brain performance and make the individual more productive throughout their day.
Weight Loss Benefits
Weight loss is another benefit that comes with using MCT oil regularly. It is mainly credited with helping the user burn more calories, curbing appetite and also boosting fat loss. Studies have also shown that when individuals consume a combination of MCT oil and medium-chain fatty acids, they experience an increase in their metabolic rate, which leads to more calories being burned throughout the day.
In addition to burning fat and calories, MCT oil can also help the individual feel more satiated for longer periods of time. This is due to its ability to provide the body with a sustained release of energy and a decrease in hunger cravings. With these benefits, MCT oil is an effective way to support weight loss.
Safety Precautions
It is important to keep in mind that while MCT oil is beneficial, it is still important to take the necessary safety precautions. Consuming too much MCT oil can lead to stomach discomfort, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, when added to coffee, the caffeine content can be too much for some individuals, which can cause them to experience heart palpitations and excessive sweating.
Therefore, it is important to listen to your body and pay attention to any signs of discomfort or signs of adverse effects. Before starting either a fasting program or adding MCT oil to one’s diet, it is best to consult with a nutritionist or healthcare professional.
Essential Things to Keep in Mind
When it comes to consuming coffee with MCT oil, it is important to remember a few key points. Firstly, it is important to ensure that one is consuming high-quality MCT oil to ensure the optimal effects. This means avoiding products with added fillers or stabilizers, since these can reduce the oil’s effectiveness. Additionally, one should pay attention to the amount of MCT oil being consumed. Too much MCT oil can cause gastrointestinal issues, so it is best to start out with a small amount and increase gradually.
Additionally, it is also important to pay attention to the type of coffee being consumed as well as the way that it is brewed. Espresso and French press coffees tend to contain higher amounts of caffeine, while instant coffee tends to contain less caffeine. While coffee with MCT oil can be a great way to fuel the body, it is important to pay attention to these details to ensure the best experience and optimal results.
Using MCT Oil for Cooking
MCT oil is also very versatile in the kitchen and can be used in place of other fats. The oil is heat-stable, meaning that it does not break down as easily under high temperatures, which makes it ideal for cooking. It is also much more stable than other cooking oils, such as olive and canola oil, and can last longer without spoiling. Furthermore, MCT oil has a mild flavor, making it a great choice for dishes that require aneutral flavor.
MCT oil can be used for baking, and can also be used for making sauces and dressings. It can also be added to smoothies or added to foods such as eggs and oatmeal. Additionally, some people also like to add a teaspoon of MCT oil to their coffee for the energy-boosting benefits.
Conclusion
Overall, MCT oil has many potential benefits, and can be beneficial for those who are on an intermittent fasting plan. While there is a debate as to whether consuming coffee with MCT oil breaks a fast or not, the bottom line is, it is still important to take necessary safety precautions when consuming MCT oil. Additionally, it is important to pay attention to the quality of MCT oil and the amounts being consumed. Taking these steps can help to ensure that one is able to achieve the optimal results while remaining safe and healthy.
