MCT oil has become a popular supplement for those on ketogenic diets or anyone looking to boost their energy levels quickly. Standing for medium-chain triglycerides, these fats are easily digested and converted into energy by the body.
Unlike long-chain triglycerides found in most foods, MCTs don't require bile salts for digestion and go straight to the liver where they can be used as an immediate energy source.
Many people add MCT oil to their morning coffee, smoothies, or salad dressings to increase mental clarity and support weight management goals.
The oil comes in different forms, with variations based on the types of fatty acids they contain – primarily C8 (caprylic acid), C10 (capric acid), and sometimes C12 (lauric acid).
Pure C8 oils are typically considered premium products because this fatty acid converts to energy most efficiently.
When shopping for MCT oil, the most important factors to consider are purity, source, and processing methods. Look for oils derived from coconut rather than palm oil for sustainability reasons. Check that the product specifies which MCTs it contains, and prioritize those with higher percentages of C8 and C10.
Also consider whether the oil has been processed without chemicals and tested for contaminants. We spent weeks researching and testing ten popular MCT oils to find the ones that offer the best quality, value, and performance for different needs and budgets.
Best MCT Oils
We've carefully researched and selected the top 10 MCT oils available on the market today. Our list includes options for various budgets, dietary needs, and usage preferences. Each product has been evaluated based on quality, purity, customer reviews, and overall value.
Nature's Way Organic MCT Oil
This organic MCT oil stands out as our top pick for its pure coconut source, versatile use, and remarkable energy benefits for both brain and body.
Pros
- Blends seamlessly into drinks with no taste or odor
- Quick energy conversion with no digestive issues
- Certified organic, keto, and paleo friendly
Cons
- Plastic bottle could be improved
- Somewhat pricier than some competitors
- May require gradual introduction for sensitive stomachs
We've been using Nature's Way MCT Oil in our morning routine for several months now, and the difference in our energy levels is noticeable. Just a tablespoon in coffee creates a smooth, satisfying drink that keeps hunger at bay for hours. Unlike other MCT oils we've tried, this one truly has no flavor or smell, making it incredibly versatile.
The quality of this product stands out immediately. It's derived solely from coconuts – no palm oil or fillers – and contains both C8 (caprylic) and C10 (capric) acids, which are the most beneficial MCT forms. We've found it mixes easily into both hot and cold beverages, and even works well in salad dressings and sauces when we want to add healthy fats without changing the flavor.
For keto and intermittent fasting, this oil has been a game-changer. It gives us clean, sustained energy without breaking a fast. The bottle's design includes a convenient pour spout that helps control the amount used. We've noticed improved mental clarity and focus within about 30 minutes of taking it. At 16 fluid ounces, the bottle lasts quite a while even with daily use, making it good value despite the initial price point.
NOW Berberine with MCT Oil
NOW's Berberine with MCT Oil is an excellent supplement for those seeking natural glucose metabolism support with enhanced absorption.
Pros
- Combined with MCT oil for better absorption than standard berberine
- Helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels
- High-quality ingredients with 90 softgels per bottle
Cons
- Some users report digestive discomfort
- May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
- Results vary significantly between users
We recently tried NOW's Berberine Glucose Support supplement and were impressed with the thoughtful formulation. The addition of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil) helps overcome berberine's typical absorption issues, making this more effective than many competing products we've tested.
What makes this product stand out is the careful balance of ingredients. Each softgel contains 350mg of berberine combined with caprate (C10), which not only improves absorption but also helps reduce the stomach discomfort some people experience with berberine supplements. The softgel form makes it easy to take daily.
In our testing, we noticed steady energy levels throughout the day after about two weeks of consistent use. While not a miracle product, it definitely helped with reducing cravings and supporting healthy glucose levels. NOW Foods maintains strict quality standards, which shows in the consistency and effectiveness of this supplement. For anyone looking to support their metabolic health naturally, we think this berberine formula offers excellent value.
Bulletproof Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil
This premium C8 MCT oil delivers rapid mental and physical energy while supporting brain health and helping control cravings.
Pros
- Produces 4x more ketone energy than regular coconut oil
- Tasteless and odorless, easy to add to various foods
- Extracted from 100% coconut oil, not palm oil
Cons
- May cause digestive discomfort when first using
- More expensive than other MCT oils
- Requires careful dosing to avoid stomach issues
We've been using Bulletproof's Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil for several weeks now, and the energy boost is noticeable. This 16-ounce bottle contains pure C8 (caprylic acid), which is the most ketogenic MCT oil available. The difference between this and regular coconut oil is significant – it converts to ketone energy much faster.
Adding it to our morning coffee created a smooth, creamy texture without any coconut taste or smell. Unlike some other brands, this oil is completely flavorless, making it versatile for various recipes. We also tried it in smoothies and salad dressings with great results. Start with just a teaspoon though, as your body needs time to adjust.
The quality stands out compared to other MCT oils we've tried. Many competitors sell blends of C8 and C10, but Bulletproof offers pure C8 for maximum ketone production. We noticed improved mental clarity and fewer hunger pangs between meals. While it's pricier than some alternatives, the purity and performance make it worth the investment for anyone following a keto diet or looking for clean energy.
Micro Ingredients Organic MCT Oil Powder
This organic MCT oil powder offers excellent value with its clean ingredient profile and versatile use for anyone following a keto diet or seeking a morning energy boost.
Pros
- Blends easily with minimal coconut taste
- Contains prebiotic fiber for digestive benefits
- High-quality C8/C10 MCT ratio (70%/30%) for energy
Cons
- May not dissolve completely in cold beverages
- Scoop size might be too large for some users
- Bag packaging can be messy to handle
We tried this MCT powder in our morning coffee and were pleasantly surprised by how well it dissolved with just a quick stir. Unlike liquid MCT oils that can leave an oily layer on top of drinks, this powder created a creamy texture without an overwhelming coconut flavor.
The one-pound bag offers excellent value compared to similar products. We found the included scoop helpful for consistent dosing, though it might be slightly large if you're just starting with MCT supplements. Each serving gave us a noticeable energy boost that lasted several hours without the crash we've experienced with coffee alone.
What impressed us most was the clean ingredient profile. There are no fillers, additives, or artificial colors—just organic MCT oil with prebiotic fiber. This made it gentle on our stomachs compared to liquid MCT oil. We also enjoyed adding it to smoothies and protein shakes for extra fuel before workouts.
Solimo MCT Oil
Amazon's Solimo MCT oil offers great value for anyone looking to add MCTs to their diet without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Excellent price point compared to competitors
- Completely flavorless and odorless
- Large 32oz bottle lasts a long time
Cons
- Contains more C12 laurate than some premium MCT oils
- Bottle can get slippery when handling
- Packaging design is somewhat awkward
We've been using this Solimo MCT oil for several weeks now, and it's become a staple in our morning routine. The unflavored nature makes it incredibly versatile – we've added it to coffee, smoothies, and even salad dressings without altering the taste at all.
The oil blends perfectly into hot beverages without leaving an oily film on top. We've noticed it dissolves much better than some pricier brands we've tried before. During our testing, we found it performs particularly well in bulletproof coffee recipes, creating that silky texture without any coconut flavor.
For the price point, we're impressed with the quality. While it does contain more lauric acid (C12) than some premium MCT oils that focus on C8 and C10, we still experienced the energy benefits we were looking for. The only real downside is the bottle design – once opened, it can get slippery and requires careful handling. Overall, this Solimo option provides excellent value for anyone wanting to incorporate MCT oil into their daily routine.
Sports Research Organic MCT Oil
This coconut-derived MCT oil delivers clean energy and versatility that makes it a standout choice for anyone following a keto diet or looking for a quality brain fuel supplement.
Pros
- Made exclusively from coconuts, never palm oil
- Flavorless and mixes easily with beverages
- USDA Organic and third-party tested
Cons
- Bottle cap can be prone to breaking
- May cause digestive upset when first using
- Slightly higher price point than some competitors
We've been incorporating this MCT oil into our morning routine for several weeks now, and the energy boost is noticeable. Just a tablespoon in coffee creates a smooth, creamy texture without altering the flavor. What really impressed us was how clean the energy feels – no jitters or crashes like with sugary energy products.
The quality stands out compared to other MCT oils we've tried. Sports Research uses only coconut-derived MCTs (C8, C10, and C12 fatty acids), avoiding palm oil completely. This ethical choice doesn't compromise effectiveness – in fact, we found it performs better than budget options that mix in palm-derived MCTs.
For keto dieters, this oil truly helps maintain ketosis. We noticed improved mental clarity throughout the morning and decreased hunger between meals. The unflavored formula is versatile enough for cooking too – we've used it successfully in salad dressings and even for light sautéing. Just start with small amounts if you're new to MCT oil, as your body needs time to adjust to this potent fuel source.
Viva Naturals Organic MCT Oil
This organic MCT oil delivers impressive energy boosting benefits with a mild taste that makes it a standout choice for keto dieters and health enthusiasts alike.
Pros
- Provides quick mental clarity and energy boost
- Extracted from 100% organic coconuts with minimal odor and taste
- USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified
Cons
- Creates an oily film when mixed with coffee
- Slightly pricier than some competitors
- May cause digestive discomfort for beginners
We've been incorporating this MCT oil into our morning routine for several weeks now, and the energy boost is noticeable. Just a tablespoon in our coffee or smoothie gives us sustained mental focus without the crash that comes from carbs or sugar. The mild taste is a huge plus – unlike some MCT oils that have a strong coconut flavor or smell.
The quality of Viva Naturals stands out immediately. Their commitment to sourcing from organic coconuts from Indonesia or the Philippines shows in the clean, pure product. We appreciate that it's free from fillers and additives, making it perfect for anyone following keto, paleo, or vegan lifestyles.
For fat-burning potential, this oil has become our go-to supplement during ketosis. The medium chain triglycerides are processed differently than other fats, helping our bodies use fat for fuel instead of storing it. While some users mention it doesn't mix perfectly in coffee (it can leave an oily layer), we've found it blends beautifully in smoothies or salad dressings. At 32 fluid ounces, the bottle lasts quite a while even with daily use.
Bulletproof MCT Oil
Bulletproof MCT Oil stands out as a premium energy booster that delivers on its promises with clean ingredients and versatile applications.
Pros
- Made from 100% coconut oil (no palm oil)
- Flavorless and mixes easily with drinks and food
- Quick conversion to ketones for sustained energy
Cons
- Some users report leaky bottle tops
- Requires gradual introduction to avoid digestive upset
- Higher price point than some competitors
We've been using Bulletproof MCT Oil in our morning routine for weeks now, and the energy difference is noticeable. Just a tablespoon in coffee creates a smooth, creamy texture without changing the flavor. The oil is completely tasteless and odorless, making it easy to add to almost anything.
The quality of this MCT oil truly stands out. It's crystal clear and doesn't leave any strange aftertaste like some cheaper oils we've tried. We started with just a teaspoon as recommended and gradually increased our intake. This approach helped avoid the digestive discomfort that can happen when starting MCT oil too quickly.
For keto dieters, this product is a game-changer. We noticed fewer hunger cravings between meals and better mental clarity throughout the day. The 16-ounce bottle lasted us about a month with daily use. While it's not the cheapest MCT oil available, the purity and results justify the price. The C8 and C10 MCTs deliver fast, clean energy that water-soluble alternatives simply can't match.
SmarterVitamins Caffeine + MCT Oil
These caffeine and MCT oil softgels deliver clean, balanced energy without the crash or jitters of regular coffee, making them a standout choice for anyone seeking improved focus and sustained alertness.
Pros
- Smooth, crash-free energy that lasts for hours
- Berry-flavored softgels absorb faster than regular pills
- Made with clean ingredients and no artificial additives
Cons
- Effects might be too strong for caffeine-sensitive people
- Higher price point than basic caffeine tablets
- Limited serving count with only 50 softgels per bottle
We recently tried these SmarterVitamins caffeine softgels and were impressed by how different they feel from regular energy supplements. The combination of 200mg caffeine with 100mg L-theanine creates a balanced focus that doesn't come with the usual jittery feeling of coffee or energy drinks.
The MCT oil from coconuts is what makes these stand out from typical caffeine pills. It helps the caffeine absorb more steadily, giving a smoother energy curve rather than a spike and crash. We noticed the effects kick in within about 20-30 minutes and last for around 5-6 hours without any sudden drop-offs.
Taking these before morning workouts gave us clean energy that felt natural rather than forced. The berry flavor is subtle but eliminates the bitter taste many supplements have. Since they're softgels rather than powder-filled capsules, they're easy to swallow and digest. We appreciate that they're made without fillers or artificial ingredients – the clean label matches how they make us feel.
Natural Force Organic MCT Oil
This organic MCT oil offers excellent quality in an eco-friendly glass bottle, making it a top choice for anyone following keto or low-carb diets.
Pros
- Full-spectrum MCTs from cold-pressed virgin coconut oil
- Eco-friendly glass packaging with biodegradable label
- Multiple certifications (USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Kosher, Vegan)
Cons
- Glass bottle may be heavier than plastic alternatives
- More expensive than some competing MCT oils
- May cause digestive discomfort for first-time users
We recently tried Natural Force's Organic MCT Oil in our morning coffee and were impressed by its neutral taste that blended smoothly without any oily residue. The oil dissolved quickly with just a quick stir, unlike other brands that tend to separate or leave an unpleasant film on top.
The 32-ounce glass bottle feels substantial and high-quality in hand. We appreciate the company's commitment to sustainability with their eco-friendly packaging. The pour spout allows for easy measuring without messy drips, which is helpful when adding precise amounts to recipes or beverages.
During our testing, we noticed a clean energy boost within about 30 minutes of consumption, without the jitters sometimes associated with caffeine alone. The full spectrum of MCTs (C8, C10, and C12) seems to provide a more sustained energy release compared to C8-only products we've tried. For anyone following keto or looking to add healthy fats to their diet, this MCT oil offers excellent quality with the peace of mind that comes from third-party testing and multiple certifications.
Buying Guide
When shopping for MCT oil, we recommend looking at several key factors to ensure you get a quality product. These simple guidelines will help you make the best choice.
Source of MCT Oil
The source matters a lot. Most MCT oils come from coconuts or palm kernels. Coconut-derived MCT oil is usually more sustainable and ethical compared to palm sources.
Types of MCTs
MCT oils contain different types of medium-chain triglycerides. Look for products that specify the MCT content:
| MCT Type | Carbon Length | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| C8 (Caprylic Acid) | 8 | Fast conversion to energy, best for ketones |
| C10 (Capric Acid) | 10 | Good energy source, moderate conversion speed |
| C12 (Lauric Acid) | 12 | Slower to metabolize, antimicrobial properties |
Oils with higher C8 and C10 content are generally better for quick energy and brain function.
Purity and Processing
Check if the MCT oil is pure or mixed with other oils. A high-quality MCT oil should be 100% MCT with no fillers.
The extraction method matters too. Look for products that use clean processing methods without harmful chemicals or solvents.
Packaging and Storage
Glass bottles protect the oil better than plastic. Dark glass bottles are best as they prevent light damage.
Testing and Certification
Quality MCT oils should be third-party tested. Look for certifications that verify purity and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
MCT oil products come with many specific considerations for health-conscious consumers. These questions address key differences between types, benefits, and practical usage guidance.
What distinguishes C8 from C10 in MCT oil products?
C8 (caprylic acid) and C10 (capric acid) are different types of medium-chain triglycerides. C8 converts to ketones more quickly than C10, making it potentially better for energy and brain function.
C8 has 8 carbon atoms while C10 has 10 carbon atoms in their chemical structure. Many premium MCT oils focus on C8 content because of its faster metabolism and more efficient conversion to energy.
We find that products with higher C8 percentages typically cost more but may deliver more immediate energy benefits.
How does MCT oil contribute to weight loss?
MCT oil may increase feelings of fullness, which can reduce overall calorie intake. These oils are also metabolized quickly and not stored as fat as easily as long-chain fatty acids.
Research suggests MCT oil can boost metabolic rate slightly, helping burn more calories throughout the day. They may also support ketosis, which helps the body burn fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates.
Regular MCT oil usage, when combined with a balanced diet, can support weight management goals by providing quick energy without blood sugar spikes.
Which MCT oil is recommended for enhancing cognitive function?
C8-dominant MCT oils show the most promise for cognitive benefits. C8 converts to ketones most efficiently, and these ketones can cross the blood-brain barrier to fuel brain cells.
Products like Brain Octane Oil specifically target brain performance with their high C8 content. These products may help improve mental clarity and focus, especially when consumed in the morning.
We recommend looking for MCT oils with at least 50% C8 content if brain function is your primary goal.
In terms of weight loss, what advantages does MCT powder offer over MCT oil?
MCT powder is more convenient for travel and doesn't cause the digestive upset that oil sometimes does. The powder form tends to be gentler on the stomach for sensitive individuals.
Powdered forms can be easily mixed into foods and beverages without the oily texture. Many powders also contain additional ingredients like prebiotic fiber that may support gut health.
We've found that powders typically release their energy slightly more slowly, which can help avoid the energy spike and crash some people experience with liquid MCT oil.
What should you consider when choosing MCT oil for your coffee?
Look for MCT oils that blend well without separating. The oil should mix smoothly into your coffee without leaving an oily film on top.
Flavor profile matters – some MCT oils have a more neutral taste while others might affect your coffee's flavor. Consider whether the product is designed specifically for coffee use, as some products offer better mixing capabilities.
The C8 to C10 ratio may affect how energized you feel after your coffee, with higher C8 contents typically providing more immediate mental clarity.
Are there any notable side effects associated with the use of MCT oil?
Digestive discomfort is the most common side effect, including stomach cramps and diarrhea. We recommend starting with small doses (1 teaspoon) and gradually increasing to avoid these issues.
Some people report experiencing headaches or nausea when first using MCT oil. These symptoms often diminish as your body adjusts to metabolizing MCTs.
Excessive consumption may lead to weight gain despite its potential weight loss benefits, as MCT oil is still calorie-dense at about 120 calories per tablespoon.