Mct Coconut Oil: Friend Or Foe In The Bathroom?

Coconut oil is often touted as a natural cure for constipation, with some people suggesting that it can be used as a laxative. This is due to its high content of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which are thought to stimulate bowel movements and soften stool. However, there is limited scientific research to support these claims, and it is always recommended that you consult a doctor before using coconut oil or any other natural remedy for constipation.

Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are also found in MCT oil. MCT oil is a dietary supplement that has gained popularity in recent years, especially among those following a ketogenic diet or consuming bulletproof coffee. While MCT oil may provide several health benefits, one of its main side effects is diarrhoea. This is because MCTs are quickly absorbed by the body and can irritate the digestive tract, leading to an urgent need to clear its contents. Additionally, MCTs contain glycerol, a hyperosmotic laxative that draws water into the colon, which can further contribute to diarrhoea.

To avoid diarrhoea when consuming MCT oil, it is important to start with a small dose and gradually increase the amount over time. It is also recommended to take MCT oil with food to slow its absorption and stimulate the production of digestive juices. However, it is best to avoid adding MCT oil to coffee as the stimulating effects of caffeine can further contribute to digestive issues.

Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) that stimulate bowel movements and help soften stool

Coconut oil is a popular home remedy for constipation. It is believed that the oil contains an abundance of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which help to stimulate bowel movements and soften the stool. MCFAs are found in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a form of fatty acid that provides several health benefits.

MCFAs are straight-chain fatty acids with 6–12 carbon atoms and one carboxylic group. They are quickly metabolised by the body and provide immediate energy without being stored as fat. This makes them useful for preventing obesity or stimulating weight loss. MCFAs are also used to synthesise MCTs, which are generally liquid at room temperature and have a lower melting point and smaller molecular size than long-chain triglycerides.

The MCFAs in coconut oil are thought to stimulate bowel movements by lubricating the intestine and helping food pass through more easily. They may also increase metabolism, which can aid in removing waste from the body and preventing constipation. Additionally, MCFAs can interact with immune and non-immune cells through the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) GPR84. This receptor is expressed in various organs, including the spleen, thymus, lung, liver, and colon, and on immune cells such as granulocytes, monocytes, macrophages, and B and T cells.

While coconut oil is considered safe to consume and has no known side effects, it is always recommended to consult a doctor before using it as a home remedy, especially for those with chronic diseases or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

MCT oil has a stronger laxative effect than coconut oil due to its higher MCFAs content

Coconut oil is often suggested as a natural laxative to relieve constipation. It contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) and glycerols, which stimulate intestinal muscles and soften stools. However, MCT oil, a derivative of coconut oil, may provide a stronger laxative effect due to its higher concentration of MCFAs.

Coconut oil is a natural source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are also a form of fatty acids. MCTs are known to have a range of health benefits, including the potential to prevent obesity and stimulate weight loss. While coconut oil contains only 13-15% MCTs, MCT oil is composed almost entirely of these compounds. This higher concentration of MCTs in MCT oil results in a more potent laxative effect compared to coconut oil.

The MCFAs in MCT oil help stimulate the contraction and relaxation of intestinal muscles, making it easier to pass stools. Additionally, MCT oil breaks down quickly into smaller MCFAs and glycerols, which can further soften stools. The rapid breakdown of MCT oil can lead to faster and stronger bowel movements.

However, it is important to note that MCT oil does not contain long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), which are present in coconut oil. LCTs act as a lubricant for the rectal lining and anal skin tissues, reducing the risk of burning or irritation during bowel movements. The absence of LCTs in MCT oil means that it may cause more discomfort and a stronger laxative effect than coconut oil.

To summarise, while both coconut oil and MCT oil can be used as laxatives, MCT oil has a stronger effect due to its higher concentration of MCFAs. MCT oil breaks down quickly and stimulates bowel movements more effectively. However, the lack of LCTs in MCT oil may result in a less comfortable experience, especially for those with sensitive skin or existing gastrointestinal issues. It is always recommended to consult a doctor or healthcare professional before incorporating new substances like MCT oil into your diet, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

The rapid absorption of MCT oil in the digestive tract can lead to irritation and diarrhoea

MCT oil is a dietary supplement composed of medium-chain triglycerides. It is often used by those on a ketogenic diet or in bulletproof coffee. It is also used by athletes for an energy boost.

MCT oil is very easy and quick for the body to absorb. This is because it is already broken down, allowing it to bypass the body's digestive process. This can cause irritation in the GI tract, which will try to get rid of the cause as quickly as possible, resulting in diarrhoea.

MCT oil is also capable of drawing water into the colon from the surrounding tissues, which can increase the softness of stools. This is due to the presence of glycerol, a hyper-osmotic laxative. Consuming too much MCT oil can therefore lead to diarrhoea.

To avoid this, it is recommended that new users start with a small daily dose of one teaspoon and work their way up to a maximum of two tablespoons a day. It is also best to take MCT oil with food to stimulate the digestive tract and slow the rapid absorption of the oil. It is also recommended to avoid taking MCT oil on an empty stomach, and to split the daily dosage into two parts.

Triglycerides in MCT oil contain glycerol, a hyperosmotic laxative that draws water into the colon

Triglycerides are named after their chemical structure, specifically the length of their fatty acid chains. All triglycerides consist of a glycerol molecule and three fatty acids. Triglycerides in MCT oil contain glycerol, a hyperosmotic laxative that draws water into the colon.

Glycerol, or glycerin, is a hyperosmotic laxative, which means it has the ability to draw water from the surrounding tissue into the colon. This can be beneficial for those who suffer from chronic constipation. However, if you do not have chronic constipation, this may lead to diarrhoea.

MCT oil is composed of medium-chain triglycerides, which are fats found in foods like coconut oil. They are metabolized differently from the long-chain triglycerides found in most other foods. The medium-chain triglycerides in MCT oil are rapidly broken down and absorbed into the body. They go straight to the liver, where they can be used as an instant energy source or turned into ketones.

The rapid absorption of MCT oil in the digestive tract can lead to irritation, causing the body to try to dispose of its contents through diarrhoea. This is one of the main side effects of MCT oil, along with stomach pain and cramps. However, not all users of MCT oil suffer from diarrhoea.

To avoid diarrhoea when taking MCT oil, it is important to get the dosage right. Start with a small daily dose of one teaspoon and gradually increase the amount over time. It is also recommended to take MCT oil with food, as this will stimulate the digestive tract and encourage the production of digestive juices and enzymes.

MCT oil side effects include heart palpitations, bloating, cramping, and vomiting

Coconut oil is often touted as a cure for constipation, with its abundance of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) thought to stimulate bowel movements and soften stool. However, the scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited. MCT oil, which is derived from coconut oil, has been found to have several health benefits, including weight loss support, brain health, and antimicrobial properties. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of MCT oil, which include gastrointestinal discomfort, immune reactions, and excessive fat accumulation in the liver.

One of the most common side effects of MCT oil is gastrointestinal discomfort, which can manifest as diarrhoea, constipation, stomach ache, cramping, and flatulence. These issues are usually indicative of an imbalanced gut microflora rather than toxicity. In some cases, MCT oil can cause an immune reaction, leading to flu-like symptoms, itching, skin rashes, and brain fog. Additionally, high doses of MCT oil over time can result in excessive fat accumulation in the liver, potentially leading to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Furthermore, MCT oil has been linked to heart palpitations and increased levels of "bad cholesterol" (LDL-C). Studies in rats have shown that saturated fatty acids and coconut oil can stimulate heart palpitations. This side effect may be particularly concerning for individuals with heart conditions or those at risk for heart disease. It is worth noting that the recommended dose of MCT oil is less than 15 grams per day, and consuming higher amounts may increase the likelihood and severity of these side effects.

While MCT oil can provide various health benefits, it is important to be aware of and carefully consider the potential side effects. For individuals experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort, it is recommended to gradually introduce MCT oil into the diet and adjust the dosage as needed. Additionally, addressing gut overgrowth problems through diet and cleansing may help mitigate some of the negative effects. Overall, MCT oil can be a beneficial supplement when used in moderation and with an understanding of its potential risks.

Frequently asked questions