On whether MCT oil can break a fast or not, here is what you need to know:
If you are following a strict, traditional, no-calorie intermittent fasting routine, taking MCT oil can break a fast because it provides calories.
Most MCT oil supplements come in liquid/soft gel forms and typically provide around 100-130 calories per tablespoon (15 ml).
When fasting, your goal is to rid your body of any external sources of energy/nutrients so that it can utilize stored fat.
Calorie restriction during fasting and utilization of stored fat by your body can promote weight loss and other fasting benefits such as autophagy that can only be attained when your body is nutrient deprived for some time.
Taking MCT oil will introduce calories that can break your fast and kick you out of the fasting state to the fed state.
So, Can You Have MCT Oil While Fasting?
MCT oil is primarily derived from coconut oil or palm kernel oil.
MCT stands for Medium-Chain Triglyceride oil, it simply is a type of dietary fat that is composed of medium-chain fatty acids.
These fatty acids are shorter in length compared to long-chain fatty acids found in most fats and oils.
The unique structure of MCTs allows them to be rapidly absorbed and metabolized by the body.
They are quickly broken down in the liver and converted into ketones, which can be used as a source of energy.
While fasting, it is not recommended to have MCT oil, especially during your fasting window because as already stated, your body can use it for energy.
Remember, unlike a ketogenic diet whose primary goal is to shift your body’s primary fuel source from carbohydrates to fats, the main goal of fasting is to shift the body into a state where it relies more on stored fat for energy.
For that reason, taking MCT oil during your fast will break your fast but it can be perfectly fine for a ketogenic diet.
What About Having MCT Oil During An Intermittent Fasting Eating Window?
Having MCT oil during your intermittent fasting eating window is highly recommended for the following reasons:
- Enhanced Ketosis.
MCT oil is rapidly metabolized by the body and quickly converted into ketones, which can help enhance ketosis.
When you consume MCT during your eating window of intermittent fasting, MCT oil can provide a source of readily available energy in the form of ketones.
This supports ketosis even during the fasting state. - Satiety and Appetite Control.
MCT oil has been shown to promote feelings of fullness and satiety, which can be particularly beneficial when transitioning from the eating window to the fasting window.
Including MCT oil in your meals or beverages during the eating window of your fast may help curb hunger and make it easier to adhere to the fasting period without feeling excessively hungry. - Weight Loss Promotion.
MCT oil has been associated with increased fat-burning and calorie expenditure.
By incorporating MCT oil during your eating window, you can potentially enhance fat burning and support your weight loss/management efforts.
When And How Much MCT Oil While Fasting?
Yes, I said taking MCT Oil during your fasting window will break your fast.
But now that we know it can safely be incorporated into the eating window, when and how much MCT oil should you take while fasting?
It is recommended to take MCT oil during the eating window of your intermittent fasting especially when you are about to transition to your fasting window.
This will not break your fast and it will still allow you to enjoy the benefits of MCT mentioned earlier on.
If you are using a liquid form, 1 to 2 spoons should do the job, if you are taking capsules, a typical dosage is about 3,000mg, delivered in 3 MCT oil soft gel capsules.
Will MCT Oil Break A Fast? – Key Takeaway.
- MCT oil can break a strict, no-calorie intermittent fasting routine as it provides calories.
It is not recommended to consume MCT oil during your fasting window if your goal is to maintain a fasted state. - MCT oil is quickly absorbed and metabolized by the body, making it a readily available source of energy.
This can enhance ketosis and provide an energy boost when consumed during your eating window. - Incorporating MCT oil during the eating window may promote feelings of fullness and satiety, making it easier to transition to the fasting period without excessive hunger or cravings.
- MCT oil has been associated with increased fat-burning and calorie expenditure, which can support weight loss efforts when included in the eating window.
- If you choose to consume MCT oil during intermittent fasting, it is recommended to do so during the eating window and in moderation.
