What Happens When You Mix MCT and Caffeine

As humans, we are constantly searching for ways to make our bodies energized and ready for whatever the day holds. Whether in getting those coveted zzzs, making sure we exercise to keep our body moving, or using proper nutrition to jump-start our day, the bottom line is we need energy. For many of us, our beloved caffeine is what propels us through whatever we need to accomplish, and for good reason. Whether it is in coffee, tea, chocolate, or another form, 80% of Americans consume some form of this stimulant. As the popularity of MCT, another energizer, grows, you may wonder how these two powerhouses work together, and how they impact your body. Here we’ll go through each individually, then walk through the impact caffeine and MCT have when we use them at the same time.

Caffeine: Your Need to Know

Caffeine is a stimulant, which means it excites the brain and nervous system to feel more alert. Caffeine helps us to focus and stay energized when we need it most. The best part for those looking for a boost is that caffeine takes under 20 minutes to enter the bloodstream. Our bodies metabolize caffeine quickly, which adds to its powerful effect to provide energy when we need it most. Once there, you feel the effect within an hour, and it can last from 4-10 hours post-consumption. The normal recommendation for an adult is under 400 milligrams a day. This equates to about 4 to 5 cups of coffee. As a rule of thumb, it is always best to see how caffeine affects your body and consume it as is helpful and healthy in your journey.

MCT: What Does it Do?

For athletes, MCT may be a regular staple in your diet, and for good reason. MCT is popular in the athlete and bodybuilding community for the energy it provides. MCT, or medium-chain triglyceride, is a medium-length chain of fats found within foods such as coconut. Due to their shorter structure, the body can easily digest and use MCTs for energy and other purposes. Once it is in the body, MCTs filter to the liver, which then processes it as an energy source. As they are able to quickly enter cells, they release a quick form of energy to the body. In other circumstances, people may use MCT to manage weight, as it contributes to the feeling of fullness due to its chemical structure. For workouts, they also help break down lactic acid, so you are left with less long-term soreness after a workout. There are four main types of MCTs, the most popular being caprylic and capric acid. These two acids are the primary sources of MCT oil, which is utilized by many athletes and bodybuilders (especially when mixed in a cup of coffee).

Caffeine & MCT Interaction

MCT is particularly popular for those who follow a ketogenic diet. This means you skip the carbs and go for a high-fat diet, which keeps you full for a longer period of time. For many, MCT oil is a way to introduce this ketogenic tool to the body. In the body, MCT oil helps speed up the metabolic rate, and burn more fat for energy due to the carbohydrate deficiency. MCT oil, which largely comes from coconuts that can be dissolved easily in a favorite cup of joe to experience both effects. Coffee and MCT interaction is common and enjoyed by many people trying to follow a ketogenic diet. Since MCT oil is flavorless, you do not notice once it is mixed in your favorite brew. Together, MCT oil and caffeine are part of a ketogenic diet that jump-starts the body’s metabolic system.

Caffeine & MCT Impact

There are several benefits to caffeine and MCT, with overlapping benefits that create a synergistic effect. Read below for some of the ways caffeine and MCT can help you in your nutritional journey.

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   Increased Energy: The biggest impact these two can have together is a surge in energy. According to research, caffeine is a largely safe way to increase alertness when you need it the most. MCT oil becomes coffee’s best friend as it can immediately enter cells and convert into an energy source. This is why MCT oil and coffee before workouts can aid in productivity during the workout session, providing the quick boost you need before reaching your goals.

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   Increased Metabolism: In a study on how MCT affects the body, the research found a positive correlation between MCT consumption and an increase in metabolism. Both MCT and caffeine are able to increase metabolic rates and release energy at a quicker pace. This allows for a seamless breakdown of nutrients and contributes to less fat storage.

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   May help your heart: No, we aren’t talking about caffeine jitters, which may be a usual side effect you experience with caffeine. MCT oil can be a positive helper to the heart as it promotes positive cholesterol levels. MCT raises HDL cholesterol, which is a great help to the heart. This can protect from heart disease, but further research needs to show the full range of MCT’s ability.

As with any dietary supplement, it is important to keep in mind how caffeine and MCT affect you if you choose to use them regularly. While it is a great tool for an increase in energy, especially when you need it most, certain side effects with caffeine may occur depending on the amount of consumption. Making sure not to have more than 400 mg of caffeine a day, and sticking with the cup of coffee in the morning hours can make sure it is a helpful tool to keep you alert and ready to take on whatever is thrown your way. If you are looking to add a positive asset to your daily caffeine dosage, Bubs Naturals MCT Oil is a great partner for your cup of joe. BUBS MCT is 70% caprylic acid, which provides that clean energy source from ketones - making you feel light and alert. For a powerful helper in metabolism, energy, and overall wellness, consider BUBS Natural’s MCT in your next brew.