CBD and MCT Oil: The Perfect Pairing for Health and Wellness

You may have heard of MCT oil if you're familiar with the keto diet. This flavourless oil is a carrier oil with a neutral odour and long shelf life. It has also gained traction among consumers as a supplement to increase energy and help control appetite as It is made up of easily digested fatty acids. MCT oil may be the ideal ingredient to complement your CBD products.

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What is MCT Oil and its Potential Health Benefits

MCT oil is a flavourless, odourless saturated fat often manufactured from coconut oil. Saturated fats have been traditionally considered less healthy than unsaturated fats because they have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other health problems. However, emerging scientific research challenges the view that all saturated fats are bad for your health. On the contrary, some studies suggest that when consumed in moderation, saturated fats, including those found in MCT oil, can be part of a healthy diet and provide energy and support various bodily functions.

• MCT oil could potentially promote weight loss. MCT has, on average, about 10% fewer calories than other long-chain triglycerides (LCT) such as avocados, nuts and olive oil.

• MCT oil could be an excellent energy source. Due to their shorter chain length, MCTs travel more quickly from the gut to the liver and do not require bile to break down as longer-chain fats do. The fats are broken down in the liver to be either used as fuel or stored as body fat. Since MCTs quickly enter your cells without being broken down, they can be used as an immediate source of energy. Ketones are a type of chemical the liver produces when it breaks-down fats.  Your body uses ketones for energy.

• It May Improve Athletic Endurance. It can improve athletic endurance by reducing lactate levels.

• The unique characteristic of MCTs has led to interest in their use in the management of gastrointestinal disorders

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‍Potential Side effects of MCT Oil

However, it's worth noting that MCT oil may have some potential side effects, mainly when consumed in large amounts. Some people may experience digestive issues like bloating, cramps, or diarrhoea. MCT oil is a calorie-dense food and should be used in moderation as part of a healthy diet.  

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MCT Oil as the Ideal Carrier Oil for CBD Products

Cannabidiol (CBD) has been widely discussed in the media and our blog, so we won't go into the benefits again, but if you're looking for an `smarter oil-soluble solution` to fully absorb CBD's benefits, a carrier oil is essential. Carrier oils help increase the bioavailability of CBD and improve the stability of formulations by making it easier to produce emulsions with small droplet sizes. In addition, MCT oil can be a seamless addition to natural formulations, making it an excellent ingredient  for manufacturers across the CBD industry.

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Why MCT Oil is Preferred Over Hemp Seed Oil

MCT oil is preferred over Hemp seed oil due to its longer shelf life and excellent stability. Compared to Hemp seed oil, MCT oil has a lower risk of oxidation and spoilage, which means that products made with MCT oil can maintain their freshness and quality for a more extended period of time. Additionally, MCT oil-based products are more versatile and forgiving in terms of storage and solubility, making them easier to use and incorporate into different products. Hemp seed oil products require specific temperature, heat, and light conditions to prevent spoilage, which can limit their applications and use.

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Brand points to consider

1. Raising awareness and educating consumers about the benefits of MCT oil is crucial in promoting its usage, especially for those following plant-based diets. Promote the differences between different carrier oils.  
2. MCT oil has gained popularity as a key ingredient in Bulletproof Coffee, which is believed to enhance energy and mental performance, making it a popular choice for athletes and those on specialist diets.  
3. Starbucks have just started promoting olive oil-infused coffees  https://www.insider.com/starbucks-new-olive-oil-coffee-review-oleato-line-2023-2
4. Approximately 50% of consumers are actively seeking ways to lose weight, while an increasing number of consumers are looking for food and drinks that offer energy-boosting benefits. Tapping into benefits of MCT oil can allow brands to add functional claims or USPs vs other brands which don’t mention what carrier oil they are using.  

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^{Additional notes:}

^{Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Health: The Potential Beneficial Effects of a Medium Chain Triglyceride Diet in Obese Individuals - PMC (nih.gov)}

^{Ketosis After Intake of Coconut Oil and Caprylic Acid—With and Without Glucose: A Cross-Over Study in Healthy Older Adults - PMC (nih.gov)}

^{Impact of medium and long chain triglycerides consumption on appetite and food intake in overweight men-Nature}

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