MCT oil has become a very popular supplement due to the fact that it provides the body and brain with an efficient, potent source of fuel for increased energy. Most people that take MCT oil notice slight improvements in physical energy or mental performance. There are a variety of potential MCT oil benefits including: enhancing weight loss efforts, antimicrobial effects (e.g. against Candida), and aiding cognitive function.
It can even be used to help control epilepsy on a ketogenic diet and as a source of fat for individuals who are unable to process other types of fats due to medical conditions. Most sources suggest that MCT oil is a relatively safe dietary supplement when used properly. That said, there are still plenty of individuals who notice that when they take MCT oil – they get side effects, some of which can be very unpleasant.
Side effects from MCT oil are most common when a person first starts supplementing. This is generally due to the fact that the body hasn’t fully adapted to the newly incorporated MCTs. As the body adapts, it is thought that new enzymes are generated to help process the increased medium-chain triglyceride intake.
Factors that influence MCT Oil side effects
If you’re experiencing unpleasant side effects from MCT oils, there are some factors you’ll want to consider to help determine what the potential cause may be. While some side effects are common in the short-term, persistent long-term side effects generally indicate a more pronounced problem that needs to be addressed.
1. Dosage (1 to 3+ tbsp)
Most companies recommend taking anywhere from 1 to 3 tablespoons per day. Some people start out going full throttle with 3 tablespoons and quickly find that they have an array of unpleasant side effects such as diarrhea, upset stomach, intestinal gas, and they feel like crap. Nobody should start out taking the maximum recommended dosage of MCTs unless they want to experience severe side effects.
While the common recommendation may be 1 tablespoon, starting out with just 1 teaspoon can help your body slowly adapt to the MCTs. Just like any drug, you shouldn’t increase to the maximum daily amount immediately. Slowly titrate the dosage upwards over a period of weeks – not days. In other words, take 1 tsp for a week or two, then try 1 tbsp for the following week and determine how you react.
In general, most people experience side effects because they are taking too high of an MCT dosage for their bodies to handle. Those on smaller doses tend to experience a fewer number of side effects with reduced severity compared to individuals who go crazy with high doses.
2. Duration of supplementation
If you’ve only been taking MCTs for a short-term, expect to experience some side effects, especially if you started on a moderate dose. To minimize the side effects over the course of the short-term, it is recommended to start with a very low dose (e.g. 1 tsp) and slowly work your way up to 1 tbsp when you believe you can tolerate it. Most people notice that side effects tend to be most pronounced within the first few weeks of using MCTs on a daily basis.
After several weeks, the body should adapt to the medium-chain triglycerides and be better equipped to process them. Some speculate that certain gut adaptations may ensue following consistent administration of MCTs over the short term such as development of new enzymes. Most people notice that over the long-term, side effects tend to lessen in severity and/or completely subside.
3. Food vs. Empty stomach
Another factor to consider is whether you’re taking MCT oils with or without food. Taking MCTs on an empty stomach may be setting yourself up for unwanted diarrhea, stomach pain, or gastrointestinal issues. Most MCT supplements and medical guidelines suggest that MCTs should be taken with food and should not be heated (e.g. used for cooking) – if they exceed a certain temperature (e.g. 320 degrees), they could be harmful.
Most people find that if the MCTs were causing gastrointestinal distress on an empty stomach, that taking them with food tends to mitigate the unwanted side effects. If you’re taking them with food already, you’re on the right track. You could experiment with taking them right before eating, in the middle of a meal, or immediately after eating to determine which strategy is optimal for side effect reduction.
4. Type of MCT Oil
Most people believe that all MCT oils are created equally and have the same contents. Unfortunately there are several different types of MCTs including: C6, C8, C10, and C12 – indicating the length of the chains. Additionally the purity of various MCTs may not be the same due to how they were processed. (For more information read: “What is MCT Oil?“)
Contents: Using C6 (caproic acid) tends to burn the throat and may create more unwanted side effects than necessary. It is the shortest chain and is also processed most rapidly by the body. Certain products may contain a mixture of all 4 types of MCT oils, possibly increasing the incidence of side effects.
Some sources suggest that C12 (lauric acid) behaves more like a LCT (long-chain triglyceride) and could result in side effects stemming from the longer breakdown. It should also be mentioned that some MCTs are extracted from coconut oils, palm kernel oils, or a combination of both – which may also influence your side effects.
Purity: It has been thought that some MCTs may contain chemicals, solvents, or other unwanted byproducts during their processing. Additionally if they are manufactured and shipped in a plastic container with BPA – this may affect how you react. Make sure you have done your research and found an MCT that is processed well and shipped in a container that doesn’t contaminate the product.
Various companies tend to use distillation to avoid oxidation of various lipids and create a pure product. Others are thought to use various catalysts and solvents to help with the production of their MCT oil. The refining process may be conducted with chemicals that may affect the final product and contribute to side effects that you may not get with a purer MCT. Since dietary supplements are not evaluated by the FDA, it is important to be cautious and make sure you’re getting the highest quality stuff.
5. Individual variation
It is important to keep in mind that while many people experience similar side effects from MCTs, there is significant variation based on the individual. One person may experience side effects over the long-term with MCTs and never feel fully “adapted” to the effects. Another person may take MCTs and not notice much of any side effects. Additionally certain medical conditions, medications, and genetics may influence the effects of the MCTs.
Those that are currently pregnant or breast-feeding may want to avoid using MCTs altogether due to the fact that using MCTs during pregnancy isn’t well studied. Additionally diabetics may not respond well to the build-up of ketones throughout the body. Those with liver problems should consult a medical professional to determine whether MCTs are safe for consumption (especially with formulations incorporating C12 lauric acid).
MCT Oil Side Effects: List of Possibilities
Below is a list of side effects that you may experience while taking MCTs. Keep in mind that the severity and number of side effects will be subject to individual variation based on the factors listed above.
- Anxiety: Generalized anxiety may occur among individuals with a susceptibility to nervousness or individuals with anxiety disorders. This is likely due to the fact that MCTs can increase mental energy, giving the brain a jumpstart. While this is a relatively uncommon side effect, it is one that has been reported by certain people.
- Appetite reduction: Many people find that taking MCTs reduces their appetite. This is because MCTs are converted into energy, giving the body and brain a potent boost that they would’ve normally obtained from standard food. Many people feel satiated and less of a need to eat when they supplement MCTs.
- Flatulence: Some people notice that they tend to get very gassy and fart a lot when they start taking MCTs. This may be a result of taking too high of an MCT dose too quickly. To avoid this effect, try to take the MCTs with food and scale back on food. Most people find that the gassiness subsides after a few weeks of consistent supplementation.
- Gastrointestinal problems: Some people have pointed out that MCTs cause gastrointestinal irritation. As was mentioned, this could be a result of impurities within the product, but could also be a result of the specific MCTs that are used. It has been speculated that the shorter the chain of the MCT (e.g. C6), the more gastric distress a person is likely to experience due to the speed of processing.
- Diarrhea: Experiencing a severe bout of diarrhea is extremely common when people first start taking MCTs. In fact, diarrhea is perhaps the most common side effect of all. If you are experiencing diarrhea as a side effect, lowering the amount of MCTs that you’re taking is a smart idea. Also consider taking your MCTs with food as it may help reduce gastrointestinal distress.
- Digestive problems: If you suspect that the MCT oils are affecting your digestion, you’re probably right. Many people notice that their stomach feels gassy, they experience diarrhea, or abnormal bowel movements when they first start supplementing MCTs. Assuming you have no medical conditions that would be causing digestive issues, reduce the MCT dosage until your digestion stabilizes.
- Dizziness: A common reaction to nearly any drug or supplement is that of dizziness. If you’ve become dizzy as a result of MCT oil, you may want to reduce the dosage, try a different brand, or consume it with food. This isn’t a very common reaction, but may be related to increased mental energy and/or anxiety from the MCTs.
- EFA deficiency: There is some speculation that supplementation of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) may result in essential fatty acid deficiency. While some studies found no such problem, a couple studies involving administration of MCTs to infants found that EFA levels were deficient as a result. Make sure you are getting sufficient EFAs to avoid becoming deficient; which could lead to its own subset of side effects.
- Headaches: Certain people are prone to headaches when taking MCTs, especially when they first begin supplementing. While the cause of these headaches is unknown, they may be related to the way the MCTs were processed, impurities, composition of the oil, or even a result of increased mental energy. High levels of mental energy from MCTs may lead some people to experience headaches.
- Hot flashes: In some cases, individuals may notice an increase in body temperature from the MCT oil. This increase in temperature may occur in the form of “hot flashes” in which it feels as if the body is suddenly heating up. This may be due to the speed by which the MCT oil is being absorbed and metabolized – thus giving the body more energy. Hot flashes as a result of taking MCT oil are thought to be more common among women.
- Hunger: Most people experience a reduction in appetite after taking MCT oil due to the fact that it is an efficient source of energy. However, some people have reported feeling increasingly hungry following MCT consumption. This may be due to a variety of other factors including drugs or supplements that the person is taking as well as dietary factors. However, one study shows that MCTs may bind to ghrelin and convert it into an active form that may stimulate appetite. Keep in mind that most evidence contradicts this side effect, but it is one that people have reported.
- Irritability: A lesser reported side effect from MCT oil is that of irritability. If you notice that you’re becoming irritable, it may be due to the fact that you’re brain is overstimulated from the energy the oils have provided. To decrease the irritability, scale back or tweak the dosage so that you’re taking an amount that makes you feel less irritable.
- Nausea: If you feel nauseous while taking MCTs, you’re not alone. Many people report nausea in the early stages of supplementation as well as if they take too high of a dose. While nausea is a commonly reported side effect, it shouldn’t persist over a long term. If nausea doesn’t subside after a few days or weeks, you may want to consider that the brand of MCTs may be problematic and/or your dosing may be too high.
- Perceptual changes: The fact that MCTs provide the brain with increased energy and elevate levels of circulating ketone bodies may result in perceptual changes. Dietary intake is known to affect brain function, and therefore a ketogenic diet, perhaps induced by increased consumption of MCTs may result in a noticeable perceptual shift.
- Stomach aches: As was mentioned, MCT oil can lead to gastrointestinal distress, diarrhea, flatulence, and other digestive issues. Stomach aches are very common when a person first starts taking MCTs. Most people will adapt to the MCT oil and the stomach aches should subside after several weeks. If you’re experiencing stomach problems, scale back the dose and make sure you’re taking the MCT oil with food.
- Throat irritation: If you take certain types of MCTs on an empty stomach, you may feel as if they are slightly burning the lining of your throat or stomach. It has been suggested that shorter chained MCTs (e.g. C6 caproic acid) may be to blame. Make sure your formulation is void of C6 as this may be the culprit for the burning sensations.
- Tiredness: A counterintuitive reaction to MCTs is that of sleepiness or feeling increasingly tired. Most people find that MCTs are very physiologically activating, but a select number of people notice that they feel even more tired after taking the supplement. Be sure to rule out other causes of the sleepiness and discontinue the MCTs to verify that this was a reaction to them.
- Vomiting: While a majority of people do not end up vomiting from MCTs, some cannot bear the nausea and end up looking for the puke bucket. If you experience vomiting as a side effect, you are likely taking way too much MCT oil and aren’t taking it with food. If you are vomiting from a very small amount, you may have an impure product or maybe aren’t able to tolerate the product; in this case discontinuation should be advised.
- Weight changes: Some people experience weight changes when supplementing MCTs. Many athletes and bodybuilders use MCTs as an efficient means of providing the body with energy and decreasing appetite. A majority of people experiencing weight changes following MCT supplementation report a minor degree of weight loss as opposed to weight gain.
How to minimize MCT oil’s side effects…
If you are experiencing unwanted side effects from MCTs, first verify that nothing you’re taking is interacting with it and that you don’t have a medical condition that’s contributing to the problem. Also check the source of the MCTs, the composition, and ensure that the MCT oil hasn’t already expired (rancid oil will set you up for side effects).
- Take it with food: Most bottles of MCT suggest taking it with food to reduce side effects. If you are currently taking it on an empty stomach, try taking it after you’ve had some food and determine whether side effects are less pronounced. Many people find that taking MCTs with food mitigates most of the unwanted effects.
- Reduce the dosage: An obvious strategy to reduce the side effects of MCTs is to reduce the dosage. If you’re currently taking 1 tbsp and noticing significant side effects, scale back to 1 tsp and reassess your experience. Taking too high of dosage, especially in early stages of supplementation can result in side effects. If 1 tsp is causing problems, take only a 1/2 tsp and titrate upwards as your body adapts.
- Switch types and/or brands: If you’re taking a certain type of MCT oil (e.g. C12 lauric acid), you may want to switch to a formulation with C10 or C8. In addition to the specific MCTs that are utilized, you may want to switch to a different brand to determine whether the processing, production, or manufacturing may be an issue. Some manufacturers use methods to produce MCTs that may result in impurities or poorer quality products.
- Wait for body to adapt: In some cases it’s just a matter of playing the waiting game. Since most people aren’t used to taking MCTs, when you start supplementing, the MCTs are a new stimulus that your body needs to process. In the early stages of supplementation, your body isn’t prepared for the MCTs, but over time, it comes to expect them and knows how to process the medium-chain triglycerides without side effects.
- Discontinue: If the effects from MCT oil are severe, discontinuation is probably the best strategy. It’s not worth supplementing medium-chain triglycerides if they are causing significantly more distress than benefit. Â No one wants to be stuck on the toilet for hours because they took 1 tsp of MCTs… If you sense that you aren’t able to adapt to the MCTs, it’s best to listen to your body.
Who should NOT take MCT Oil?
While MCT oil is thought to be safe for most people, there are certain people that should consider avoiding medium-chain triglyceride supplementation.
- Breastfeeding or Pregnant: There isn’t sufficient research to support the safety of MCT oil among breastfeeding or pregnant women. There is even some evidence that medium-chain triglycerides may result in depletion of EFAs (essential fatty acids) in the unborn baby. To be on the safe side, avoid this supplement if you’re pregnant.
- Diabetes: Among those with diabetes (primarily those with Type 1), MCTs may result in high build-up of ketones throughout the body. This is a result of cells burning fat instead of glucose for energy. This can result in a condition called “ketoacidosis” which can poison the body in diabetics, resulting in diabetic coma (passing out), and may be fatal.
- Liver problems: While shorter chain MCTs are thought to bypass the liver, longer chain MCTs (e.g. C12 lauric acid) may result in liver problems. Regardless of the MCT composition that you’re considering, always consult with a medical professional if you have any preexisting liver disease or liver problems (e.g. cirrhosis).
MCT Oil: Weighing Benefits vs. Side Effects
If you’re taking MCT oil and experiencing side effects, keep in mind that they may eventually subside as your body gets used to the oil (over a period of weeks). If you are still experiencing side effects after moderate or long-term usage, you should take the time to weigh the benefits you’re getting from the MCT with the side effects.
If the side effects are so severe that you cannot function, obviously discontinuing the MCT oil is a smart idea. However, if you’re getting considerable benefit from the MCT oil (e.g. cognitive function), minor side effects may be justified. Always conduct a benefits vs. side effects analysis after several weeks of MCT supplementation.
Have you experienced side effects from MCT Oil?
If you’ve been using MCT oil, feel free to share whether you noticed any unwanted side effects in the comments section below. Feel free to mention the particular brand of MCT oil, how long you’ve been taking it (short, moderate, or long-term) as well as the specific subtype of the oil (e.g. C6, C8, C10, C12) and its source. Also discuss whether you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications that may be contributing to the side effects that you’re experiencing.
Realize that most people notice side effects in the short-term, but they tend to subside after a few weeks. Before blaming the MCT oil for side effects, also consider any other medications and supplements that you may be taking. I’ve been taking MCTs for several months and haven’t noticed any major problems other than intermittent stomach aches when taken on an empty stomach at a high dosage.
- Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15677766
Hi all! It is awful stuff!!! I just figured out today why I feel so fatigued, and am having diarrhea and headaches. I mean bad and constant diarrhea all day!!! From this FFFF MCT! My weekend sucked! And it is not first time experiencing these side effects after adding this substance to my coffee. On a label it should be written “Do not put it in hot drink or food” and side effects should be listed. I will complain to the FDA about this product!!!
So I tried MCT oil in my coffee on Thursday morning. Shortly after I got hit with diarrhea. It continued through the day and became worse during the night with severe abdominal cramps as well. It’s now Saturday and I’m still miserable with diarrhea and the cramps. I can’t eat and I’m having trouble getting fluids down. How long will the misery last???
It usually lasts for about 40 minutes, must be something else going on. The diarrhea can last longer but the horrible sick feeling doesn’t last, this stuff is metabolized by the body very very quickly.
I had a similar experience after using 1/2 tspn with food once a day for 4 days. I’m still having bad intestinal pain and it’s been 3 days since I used it. It seems to cause severe irritation to the GI tract for some people. Anyone know what to take to soothe it?
The first time I took it I was so miserable and it lasted all day. I was so nauseated and on the verge of vomiting after putting a TBSP in my coffee. I felt horrible, and then the stomach cramping began. I then got to do some bonding with my bathroom toilet as I had diarrhea all day afterward.
I thought I had a tummy bug, so I did it again the next day. I had no reaction the next day. On the third day I had the cramping and the nausea, and it seems to be that way now… random. I had some this morning to justify spending so much money on the stuff, but I am wondering if something that makes me feel like hell is even healthy for me.
Someone told me to try HCL capsules or cider vinegar with the MCT. I plan to do that, but since I am a busy graduate school student, I don’t have time to be dizzy and fighting off nausea. Pretty crummy!
I started taking Spirts Research approx 5 months ago. About 3-4 months ago I started noticing uncomfortable bloating and occasional cramps and excessive gas and acid indigestion. The diarrhea was manageable. I had no motivation to do anything. Gym was a hit or miss.
I was miserable to put it mildly. I told my doctor and he was more concerned about my BP. I stopped the MCT and instantly the next day the bloating was gone. I’m going to give it a break of 39 days and try to reintroduce it in smaller amts. anyone else with these symptoms?
Hot flashes, tingly hands, and what feels like chills. I’m scaling back and going slower, I appreciate it with the Keto diet BC it helps with weight loss though. Whatever you do, don’t use it and artificial sweeteners at the same time. Accident pants will happen. Stevia is safe.
Thanks for all the posts. I feel like I want to pass out now. I’ve been feeling the anxiousness, dizziness and definitely increased heart rate. No nausea though, after I realized I needed to add at least two eggs afterward. Wasn’t exactly sure if it was the MCT or something else, while doing IF… a tablespoon and a half on my first try was definitely too much with my coffee. Will cut down considerably and see how that works!
On my 3rd day of bulletproof brain octane oil. C8. It has definitely increased my acid reflux and overall burning in my gut. I’ve noticed no “brain clarity” or energy increase that they say will produce. I started with 1 tsp first day. Then 1 tablespoon 2nd day then 2 tablespoons today… in my bulletproof coffee. Maybe that’s why the horrible burning stomach. Maybe I increased too quickly. I’ve read several comments of it increasing restless leg syndrome and insomnia. Which I already have. So that is definitely worrisome and makes me reconsider using it. Glad I only bought one bottle.
I have been taking the Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil for several weeks. I use only 1 teaspoon in my Bulletproof coffee, per day, but have noticed an anxious, jittery feeling and headaches in the morning..the only medication I take is for blood pressure.
These symptoms are concerning. After reading this, I think I should just stop taking it. As you mentioned, I have noticed no energy increase or “brain clarity”. No stomach upset or any other negative symptom, but anxiety, nervousness and headaches are not acceptable at all.
Hi. I was doing the coffee with the actual coconut oil and was feeling great so I ordered the Brain Octane Oil from bulletproof. I have been exhausted, just beat down tired. I took 1 TBSP at first and then 2 today. What was I thinking? Perhaps this explains feeling so overall drained and brain fogged… Is it that there is some sort of cleansing effect? Any thoughts?
I am taking 2 MCT capsules a day. I have noticed my hair is oily even after a wash. Could this be from the MCT?
Lisa, I recommend cutting back on intake. Also recommend checking out the company that makes the MCT capsules you are taking. Not all are clean.
I started MCT oil after I had used the Pruvit products for weight loss as they too have MCT in them. I could not afford the product passed two orders of it, so I researched and found that you could purchase the oil. I have had absolutely no issues with the oil. In fact, I have tons of energy, and even though it may cause some appetite suppression, I still eat, but have reduced my bad carb intake.
I take it only once per day in my coffee, one teaspoon. I did experience a headache, but that could have been from my body resetting due to reduction of carbs. I am going to try and find the purest of oils I can because I want to keep using it. It may not be for everyone, but for me it’s working. I take no medication of any kind for any ailment or disease, and I have about 3 pounds but have also lost tons of inches off my belly and waistline.
Wow! That’s awesome! I am experiencing a headache…only took 1 tsp in my coffee. I have only been on it for a bout 5 days. I am experiencing loss of inches. I do take meds for high blood pressure and my heart has been racing all day. I was hoping the oil would help with blood pressure… but not so far.
Maria, I too have had blood pressure ups and downs and don’t want to take medication so I researched how to control it naturally. I take 1 tablespoon of Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (with the mother) in the morning along with a half scoop serving of SuperBeets. The superbeets is also for circulation and my b/p is normal now without medication.
As a matter of fact, I recently donated blood and they told me I did good! Wasn’t sure what they meant by that so when I asked, they told me I donated in half the time as most people, that I had good blood volume and heart is pumping well! I only took 1 teaspoon of the bulletproof MCT oil and I have felt lethargic for the past 2 days.
Also, got sick in the middle of the night with nausea and sweating. I haven’t taken it since for fear it won’t go away. Will just have to see when I feel better if it’s worth taking it as well. Was using it for a boost with weight loss while on Keto diet.
I didn’t have any digestive issues at any dose, but I found that if I take more than 2 Tbs, it actually causes some depression. I’ve had issues with depression in the past, but have been doing well for awhile now. I experimented 3-4 times & each time once I take the 3rd Tbs (usually hrs away from the first 2), I don’t feel well. Just wanted to mention for any prone to depression. I never had a food or supplement do that. But otherwise I love the MCT oil & feel fine at 2 Tbs. I’ve only used Viva Naturals so I may try another brand just to see the difference.
I have been struggling with insomnia with headache for years now more on then off. I finally pinned it down to MCTs. Coconut oil, avocado or even butter prevents me from sleeping. I get this pressure in my head with a feeling of lots of energy and then I can’t sleep at all the whole night.
It’s been really messing up my life. I think I’m going to have to cut MCTs out of my diet entirely which really sucks. I love avocados and butter but I guess I’m intolerant :(
The effect I have noticed is amplified by grapefruit. If I eat or drink grapefruit and have even a teaspoon of coconut oil or a small amount of avocado or even butter I lose my appetite completely get pressure in my head and can’t sleep at all.
I can tolerate more MCT when I don’t eat grapefruit but the effect seems to last several days after ingestion which makes me wonder if grapefruits enzyme inhibition of CYP3A4 has something to do with the metabolization of MCTs.
When using Bulletproof Brain Octane I almost immediately become fatigued and have a feeling of slight intoxication. It’s only with this oil and it started months after successful use. It’s really vexing. I’ve started taking the soft-gels and haven’t had the issue.
I’m on my third bottle of NOW Sports 946ml since end of Oct/16. Really like it in my BPC… used at least a tablespoon with heavy cream and would have a couple of cups in the morning, and also some in my green smoothie. I liked this MCT oil too much, I think. Started Ketogenic Oct 10/16… lost 10-12 lbs.
Lately I’ve had a bit of a stressful situation in helping a family member. I have had a terrible few nights of NOT sleeping and had restless arms and legs… had to shake them violently in order to get circulation… it just felt so “nervy”.
I am at this site because I searched it out thinking it might be the MCT oil. I have cut it out now for the second day… we shall see. Hope I can sleep tonight. Please reply if you have had this problem.
Came here via search for “MCT oil scratchy throat”. I’m using Left Coast MCT oil, which is C8 & C10. The other suspect, though, is stevia, which I often use at the same time. Based on my searches it is also implicated in sore throats.
I’ve got the same problem, using Wild MCT C8/C10 blend and I notice an immediate reaction in my throat to the oil presence. I’m not making bulletproof but just adding 1 Tbsp to a coffee with half/half creamer. The oil floats on top for the most part.
It would be really helpful if people stated the brand of MCT oil they consumed as was requested above. I decided to try MCT oil to improve cognitive function. I purchased Jarrow formulas after reading the label.
The bottle says it is a product of the Philippines and distributed by Jarrow Formulas and a Los Angeles CA address. It says it is Medium Chain Triglycerides from Coconut Oil. “All natural, odorless and 100% pure”.
When I got home I took one teaspoon after dinner. No apparent effects good or bad. The next morning I read the bottle again and it said “Usage: Take 1 tablespoon per day on an empty stomach” so I followed the directions and swallowed 1 tablespoon before breakfast. Within a few minutes I had terrible abdominal pain, and felt faint.
I went to the toilet expecting to have sudden diarrhea. I had the most terrible diarrhea, soon became fluid pouring out down the toilet. I fainted and injured myself. I felt awful, woozy with diarrhea for about 8 hours. I won’t go on but I could.
I suspected my experience was from the MCT oil so I googled it and read that these are known side effects of MCT oil ingestion. The instructions on the bottle are irresponsible which suggests this is not a reliable company. I wonder if it contains contaminants or could be a byproduct of the cosmetic industry.
Does anyone have any experience or knowledge of Jarrow Formulas MCT oil? I still have the bottle and wonder if it was just the irresponsible directions or was it an impure product? Anyone used Jarrow Formulas? Any advice?
I would recommend purchasing from an American company. Other countries do not have watchdogs or as much competition… what you read on the label may not be true. Just saying.
I have used Jarrow MCT oil and never had any problem at all with it, in fact it’s one of the better ones I’ve used. I do know that Jarrow is one of the most reputable supplement companies in existence and their products are always pure and of the highest quality.
No, I do not work for them nor do I know anyone who does, I’ve just done a lot of research on supplements and supplement companies. Most people need to start with a much smaller dose and you are right, it should say that on the bottle.
My bottle says to take with food. Where did you buy it from? I would avoid buying any supplements from Amazon, likely to be fake with a brand name label on it.
I just started taking MCT oil on the Bulletproof Diet. I have been taking 1 tsp 2 or 3 times per day. First off it gave me severe diarrhea. After doing this for about 4 days I ended up at the hospital. Reason being, severe dizziness and shakiness, lightheaded, disorientation and a racing heart beat.
My blood pressure was also very high. All of my tests came back normal and this was the only new thing I had been doing. Good thing I still had health insurance until the end of the month. This stuff is dangerous. I also was severely dehydrated as a result.
I’m trying to decide if I even want to continue with the Bulletproof Diet Plan. I have a bunch of their products, so have really cut back in my dosage of this stuff. It isn’t worth risking your life over to take this stuff and so far I haven’t lost any weight as a result, which is why I started taking it to begin with.
I get stomach pains. I put it in my coffee which I drink on an empty stomach. Might start putting it my salad with balsamic instead and see how it goes. I’ve been taking it for a few years… Bulletproof Brain Octane.
I use Primal Energy MCT oil and apart from it being in a plastic bottle (which I’m not keen on the idea of), I’ve not had any issues / side effects and have used it for two months. I started off by having a small amount, not every day and now I tend to have a day or two off from it. So, that could be why I haven’t suffered the side effects.
I pour about a table spoon full, sometimes a little more, over my breakfast which is berries, sometimes yoghurt and ground mixed nuts, with a tea spoon of flaxseeds. I’ve been eating more sugary food lately, after months of almost no added sugar. But, there have not been any strange side effects either way. I added it to a cooking omelette earlier (low heat), which I shouldn’t have – I forgot you shouldn’t use it for cooking.
No symptoms (that I’m aware of) though. As for the benefits, I’m not sure which of the changes I’ve made are responsible as I’ve changed a lot of my diet over the last three or more months and no problems yet – just take it easy when getting your body to start processing something it’s not used to dealing with and you should be fine over time.
Mct oil is a great tool to use for those especially in ketosis, but there are caveats. Start out taking about 1 tsp for the first week and adjust upwards slowly by the week. You need to let the body adjust to using them. They hit the system fairly quickly and burn quickly hence the possible warm up and hot flashes some experience as the bodies metabolism spikes from digestion.
These forms of small chained fats metabolize quicker than our bodies are generally used to so can cause symptoms such as you are experiencing. I would suggest if you would like to limit these symptoms till your body adjusts take the mct 25-30 minutes before a session of physical activity and let the body use them for fuel which is what they are actually really good for and that is quick fueling for the body.
I started using MCT oil recently and developed severe reflux, anxiety and a lot of gas. I think I started using too high a dose for me being 1 tbsp on two consecutive days, however I do have a sensitive gut.
I have been using MCT Oil for well over 3 years now and I still occasionally get diarrhea if I use too much or take it on an empty stomach. I take a lot of MCT oil per day, around 100 ml or more, for an Epilepsy condition and I find it keeps me well and seizure free. Like others who have commented here, I like to use MCT oil in my breakfast Bulletproof coffee as part of a Ketogenic diet regime.
I’m 54 years old and I believe that MCT oil has made a major contribution to my overall health well-being by reducing my risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.
MCT oil needs a carrier to slow absorption, otherwise it shoots through most people. Bread is a good carrier, but frying rice in it is a great option. Heat the MCT oil just enough to boil the oil and mix the spices in before adding in your favorite rice. Once the rice is coated (less than a minute) add the water to finish cooking. Consume the rice in meals throughout the day and you have a steady energy source that lowers blood sugar as well.
For people with IBS that find rice too binding and shy away from it, the MCT oil fixes that and puts rice back on the menu. Another benefit to this method is the creativity you can take in the spice mixture (e.g. turmeric, smoked paprika), to which others may exclaim it is the best rice they have ever tasted ;)
I just got my new bottle of Viva Labs Pure Coconut MCT Oil and put about half a TBSP in my coffee and within half an hour was in the bathroom!! All morning trying to get son ready for school, I had to keep sitting down because of horrible cramps! It’s 4 hours later and getting better, but still pangs of cramps and I know I will keep visiting the bathroom!! I feel like I had a cleanse! I sure wish I had read all this BEFORE I took it! So tomorrow I will just have like a half tsp and see what happens.
I used the Now Sports MCT oil and I got a major panic attack. Heart was racing and my hands were shaking. This was with 1 tbsp taken with a meal. Yes that was my first and last time taking it so I will be using regular old coconut oil from now on!
I’ve been taking the Viva Labs Non-GMO Pure Coconut MCT Oil brand of MCT. I use it in my coffee every morning as part of a ketogenic diet. Bullet proof coffee (information on the web) is something a lot of people on this diet partake in. After a month I stopped adding the heavy whipping cream and butter that it calls for and substituted it entirely with coconut oil and MCT.
I started out with 1 Tablespoon each in my coffee. That was too much to begin with. I ended up in the bathroom within an hour. I lowered the MCT to .5 Tablespoon and 1 Tablespoon of coconut oil. That seemed to be the right thing to do for my body. Now I make my coffee with 1 Tablespoon of both (my body adapted), coffee and 1 oz. of Jordan’s skinny syrup. I blend it in my bullet blender and I am not hungry from 6-1PM.
It’s a great dietary aid for me. I’m actually not hungry even at 1PM but being diabetic I worry about my blood sugar fluctuating too much. As a result of the diet and use of MCT, I don’t get the afternoon fog that I used to get. I also have the lowest morning blood glucose readings. In the beginning part of June 2016 my numbers hovered at 189-300, very erratic.
Now I have been able to begin to lessen my evening Lantus (insulin) from 26 units to 22 units, with bg numbers in the low to below 100’s. My lowest number was 89. That has not happened in 13 yrs. since I was diagnosed. My energy level is also up. side effects that I have noticed, but have overcome- hot flashes (I’m 58 so I’m used to them!), trouble getting to sleep, using the bathroom too often, lack of appetite.
Benefits- ENERGY, weight loss, lower blood glucose numbers, less brain fog, and clearer vision. I sent a friend who has MS some to put in her morning coffee. She reported that she only takes 1 nap per day as opposed to 4 that she used to take.
Hi Lori… I just put my comments up concerning not being able to sleep lately and wondering if it was MCT oil. I see you have had that, too. I am up in the night writing to you… still can’t sleep. Funny thing is that I have not been tired all day, had lots of energy.
I think one has to find the correct dosage for oneself. I think you are on the right track by going Ketogenic. Diabetes can be reversed. Just find the right dosage of oil.
Since you are on the Ketogenic regime, you are off sugar and are low carb, if you are taking a moderate amount of protein, I think your body converts it to energy. I feel so glad that there is an answer for you to reverse your diabetes. Take care and God bless.
Was on Brain Octane (C8) for three days, one tsp 2 – 3 X day, felt much sharper with increased energy, but…had alot of gassiness and actually constipation, opposite of what most experience, plus I would wake at night, restless, headache, irritable, bad dreams, unable to return to sleep, brain actually felt like it was under semi-attack when waking at night, so I quit and all returned to normal the next night. I am going to try again – this time 1 tsp a day (or every other day), will also have my naturopath test for suitability and dosage this week.
I had pretty severe nausea and stomach pain / bloating about a week after starting mct oil. My husband and I started trying g for a second child so I mistook my symptoms for pregnancy. Since then I have not had my period but pregnancy tests are negative and I am wondering if this is due to the mct oil? Anyone have insight in this or missed periods from use of mct oil?
I am three days into using MCT oil. The diarrhea hit day one. Day two, my fibromyalgia symptoms seemed to have faded away. Day three, hard time calming down and falling asleep. I didn’t see a hard time falling asleep or the timing when you should take the oil as an issue. Anyone else experience this?
Wow! Thanks for this article! This explains so much of what has happened to me since I started taking MCT oil. The extremely watery stools are a deal breaker for me. I did not have these problems when I took virgin coconut oil. I’m going back to virgin coconut oil. It may not be as effective, but at least it doesn’t have such severe side effects.
Started with 1 tbs in my smoothie and 1 tbs of Kerrigold butter. No issues the first two days. Ever since then I have had what feels like brain fog and dizziness. I definitely do not feel sharper and more alert. Quite the opposite. I had bowl problems at first, but they have somewhat subsided.
The dizziness and dull brain feeling has not subsided though. I may try a smaller dose or possibly just stop altogether. I have only tried it for around five days. I have been using the MCT oil that is sold at Thrive online. Doesn’t say exactly what type of MCT oil this is or the length of the triglyceride chain.
I had no idea!!! I used 2 tsp a week ago and could not understand why that night I slept for 12 hours, like I was drugged. The next night I woke at 1:30 AM and was awake for two hours. For two days afterwards, my stomach would not stop gurgling to the point where my husband could hear it across the room and I had diarrhea, then got constipated.
The bloating is terrible. I have had hot flashes and night sweats for two weeks. I had no idea and unfortunately had another 2 tsp in my salad tonight and the symptoms came right back. I’ve also had a restlessness and slight depression, neither of which I am prone to. I must be very sensitive. It just never occurred to me to look up side effects of an oil which was recommended to me by a naturopath who never mentioned the possible side effects.
I’m done with it. Not worth the suffering. I just hope this next bout isn’t as bad as the last.
I began taking MCT oil yesterday, and really thought that death would have been better than what I was experiencing ?. At least I now know what to do, thanks to this article… and Google for helping me find it. I decreased the dosage to 1 teaspoon today, and now have a major headache, but at least the GI issues have subsided (most of yesterday was spent on the toilet-sorry if that was TMI) and the hot flashes are gone. There is still a bit of dizziness, and I am really HAWNGREE all of the time, but I will continue with the product with the hope that the positives will outweigh the negatives.
I’ve been using MCT Oil just last February. I was 64 kgs that time. I start to low dosage for 5 ml a day and put in in my coffee almost everyday. It’s June and I weighted 52 kgs now. At first I also experience diarrhea but as I observed, I’m getting thinner and firmer. And it also improves my skin. Now, I’m taking 2 tsps a day and it continually helps me to maintain my weight and have an active brain.
I have a HUGE issue. Starting taking MCT with bulletproof coffee a year ago. Started slowly and no issues and good benefits. Just recently it seems that I have become tolerant to even the slightest amount, experiencing diarrhea and gas. Why would it start a year later? I have cut back but will still experience the gas and diarrhea… can anyone help? I love it and have grown addicted and don’t want to stop taking it! Use NOW brand… same as what I have been using for a year.
Feel the same. Been using MCT 2 different quality types for over a year and recently been getting headaches, irritable, mood swings, gas, nausea and dizziness like taking a drug. Will remove from my diet next 2 weeks and see what happens.
I have been having issues recently after 2 good months. I am wondering if it could be a healing crisis but have had to stop the MCT oil for a few days. I was feeling great from it initially and worked up slowly. Then the past week, foggy head, tired and irritable.
Kristin, Very similar experience, and I have the same questions is why so long before I started having the issues. I too cut back and even stopped and started again just to make sure, and bam some problems. Very foul odor also. I am on a short stay at home vacation this next 5 days. I may try to experiment some, and see if I can find a solution.
Wow! Including the original post and all the subsequent comments… this is perhaps one of the most precise, comprehensive, informative, and helpful sites I’ve ever had the good fortune of finding through an internet search! I’m a 55 year old Caucasian Male with the following issues:
1. Obesity.
2. Hypertension.
3. Borderline Cholesterol Problem.
4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome [IBS] for at least ten years.
5. Tolerable triglyceride levels BEFORE MCTs.
6. High triglyceride levels AFTERWARDS.
7. Doctor wanted to put me on medication to reduce it.
8. I said no.
9. Taking Atenolol.
10. ” Aspirin.
11. ” about forty [30] other vitamins & supplements.
Unfortunately, loose stool & chronic diarrhea have been part of my life for many years now. But something was making it MUCH WORSE. Let me summarize from the symptoms described in the initial narrative [above], then mention additional items fom the comment section:
1. 1,000 mg [1g] capsule = .2 tsp [fractional amount]
2. also taking fish oil (Triple Omega 3-6-9 @ 2,000 mg [2 g] daily)
3. discontinued both after reading this article
4. gastrointestinal problems
5. diarrhea [frequent & watery]
6. digestive problems
7. irritable – hard to say [wife would likely indicate “no more than usual”]
8. tiredness – some [possibly unrelated]
9. bubble guts & unusual sounds – ditto
10. b.p. acting weird lately — fluctuating too much throughout the day
11. otherwise feeling well
12. Oct. ’15 – doctor visit [presented with occasional sharp pain near sternum [right upper quadrant] — suspected liver issue [palpation & x-ray determined nothing exceptional]
13. Nov. ’15 – gastroenterologist visit [blood work & stool sample — nothing exceptional (i.e. no Celiac; no Crohn’s Disease; blood series of tests negative; apparently stool was negative for parasites too, as I never heard anything back)]
It cost me $40 for a “specialist visit”. Then I got a bill from the hospital wanting almost $400 just to analyze the stool sample! The doctor’s office is across the street from the hospital, and I was just following instructions to take the stool sample to the hospital lab. I didn’t know they were going to gold-plate it!
14. definitely going to discontinue MCTs — definitely not worth it
15. other factors though — MCTs just aggravated existing condition
Michael, My triglyceride levels are great and not affected by MCT oil… unless it helped some, 107. Biggest effect on my triglycerides was cutting out a lot of my carbs. Also cholesterol levels are better based on not the total, but the ratios. There are some very good supplements that can help your ratios.
I take 2 tablespoons of Alpha Supreme. Except for some diarrhea and very slight headache, I’ve had no other side effects. I can live with that while my body adjusts. I also got a B12 injection recently and that can cause headaches. MCT oil is mighty powerful. I swear I lost 5 pounds today peeing out of my poo hole. Sorry TMI?
No, not TMI. A little crude — but matches my “watery diarrhea” exactly!
I started taking the Sports Research MCT oil about a month ago, and I really like it. At first, I tried taking 2 tbps, bit it gave me some diarrhea about three hours after the fact. I am up to 2 again, and haven’t had any issues. All I can say is that it works: more mental and physical energy. You need to avoid buying cheaply made MCT oil, I am sure that a lot of people who have had symptoms is due to this.
How can you possibly be “sure” people with side effects are buying cheap brands?
Sorry Tony I am not using a cheap brand, using Keto MCT oil. I am having the side effects. Just because you are not having any problems, doesn’t mean you won’t and it doesn’t mean everyone with side effects is buying cheap crap.
I get severe symptoms from Keto brand, not sure it’s all that great. I don’t get symptoms from others. I agree with Tony, just because an oil costs a lot, doesn’t mean it’s not cheaply made.
You really have to research where and how the manufacturer sources their coconut oil (and make sure it’s all coconut oil, no palm kernel oil) make sure it’s not a byproduct from some other industry.
I’ve been taking the Brain Octane MCT oil for about a week, and am glad I found this page! I’ve only been taking a TSP a day and I’m not sure if the positives outweigh the negatives. First the positives; mentally, I feel a little sharper and quicker, it suppresses my appetite – I don’t want breakfast after having it, and that’s about it.
Negatives: loose bowels – maybe that will go away as my body adapts, the big negative is irritability – I’m generally a happy and easy-going guy, after taking the oil, I find I’m having trouble controlling my emotions. The first day that I took it, I thought that maybe I didn’t get enough sleep, small inconveniences during the day made me feel like I wanted to fly off the handle.
The highlight of my day is playing with my kids after work, but since taking the oil, I feel like I want to brood darkly on the couch, that a dark rage is just millimeters away in my mind. I’m not sure, will I adapt to that, too?
Dan – I was relieved to find your post because it sounds similar to my reaction of irritability and bad mood and anxiety and that at only 1/2 tsp. My MCT is pure C8 by a very reputable brand. The same product works great for my wife at 1 Tbs dose. I believe that there can be great benefits from MCT so I will continue to reduce the does to see if there is an amount that works well for me.
I am taking 1 tsp of the C8 and I feel a little more alertness but it absolutely makes me feel very irritable! I put it in my coffee. I have no other side effects with my stomach or intestines like other people. I had been taking two tablespoons of coconut oil in my coffee for a long time and I have always felt fine, no problems at all. Thought I would give this a go. I’m glad it isn’t just me with the irritability… I wondered if it was going to my liver.
Same for me guys. Thank you for leaving your review. I have taken 3 Tbsp though (MCT from pure coconut 8 and 10)!! First time, with intermittent fasting (used it to break my fast to encourage fat stores for energy). Feeling very stupid as didn’t think about adverse side effects until I got them, then searched on side effects and found this.
I now have been drinking lots of water to try and flush my system. I’ve been going to the toilet frequently and feel a bit dizzy and nausea. Very irritated and bad mood, when usually I’m happy and positive.
I am amazed at the high incidence of side or negative effects, even from 1/8 teaspoon! Looks almost like phony posts fabricated by a pro pharma site discouraging its use despite numerous published reports of benefits for this coconut oil derived fat. Been taking about 1-2 tbsp daily in divided doses, also substituting coconut oil for other fats in food for weeks, mainly for weight loss and ketogenic benefits without any GI side effects.
Also found it an excellent emollient skin oil, oily initially but completely absorbed within minutes and leaving it smooth. You can mask the slight odor with a perfume or aromatic oil like rosemary, etc. This may well be a better route bypassing the stomach for taking MCT.
Been taking Keto MCT oil for a few months now. Started off slowly and gradually increased to 1 Tablespoon twice a day, one in my coffee, and another in a nutritional smoothie. I started having bad diarrhea problems after a few months use. Did not link it to the MCT oil at first.
Could not control bowels, very loose smelly stuff just fell out, no warning signs. Also I started getting a lot of gas, and farts were not clean, again no signs. I think it is worst with fermented foods such as yogurt, cottage cheese, etc.
Been going through the process of identifying for sure what is causing the problems. Almost 100% sure it is the MCT oil now after doing some elimination trials. Jerry
I thought the same thing! Not all of them because a lot of people genuinely do experience some temporary discomfort IF they take too much too soon but the key is temporary! The people claiming that it went on for hours and days; no, something else is going on.
MCT oil is absorbed and metabolized very quickly, any discomfort caused by MCT also comes and goes very quickly; onset within 5 – 15 minutes after ingesting and lasting 20 – 40 minutes, not hours later and lasting all day. Diarrhea might last longer but the awful cramping and nausea goes away pretty quickly.
You’re wrong. Everyone’s body is different. Just because you haven’t experienced this doesn’t make it false. I’ve been having intestinal issues for days post a low dose. So it is absolutely possible!!!
I just started taking MCT oil 2 days ago; I have only used 1 tbsp. a day and I have major cotton mouth and really bad hot flashes. I was a little worried about the side effects but now that I am reading these other comments I am not so worried anymore. I will see if these side effects subside after 1 week and hopefully increase my intake to 2 tbsp. a day. Good luck to everyone!
So taking MCT may not be a good thing for people taking blood pressure mess if like Jason said on March 23, it “ramped” his heart up like speed does. Anyone know about blood pressure med and taking MCT? I’m a 70 year old female in pretty good health except for my high blood pressure, I’d really like to try MCT just to have a little more energy and just be a little more mentally alert.
I took 3 TSPs and in a few hours I was dizzy, nauseous, and my heart rate would not slow down making me feel as though I had over amped my heart like dope does. I would strongly suggest that you take very little at intervals of time or you will definitely feel like crap guys.
Jason – My reaction was similar, with a feeling like my heart had a weight on it. It’s a good think a Google search lead me to this excellent article and discussion because I had no idea what was going on and I know that it’s not a heart attack because I’ve been checked out by a cardiologist.
My does is only 1/2 tsp of pure C8, and only for a few days now. Other people I know have great results with the same brand so I will continue to cut my dose in half till and see what happens. Thanks for your post.
Rob, what brand are you using? I have had a similar experience… and I only took 1 tsp in my coffee in the morning. It is now 10:00 p.m. and I am still wired.
Thanks for all the comments. It really helped me identify what’she been going on. No more MCT oil for me.
I’m on the toilet as I type, with the bubble guts. I took this at 2pm, I tore that cap off and guzzled what I felt was a tablespoon, I sat at work holding my belly then got in the car and drove home from work slumped over the steering wheel. I missed my evening workout. My belly was making unusual sounds. I said, oh no. I think I will add this to my shake in the morning with a teaspoon. We shall see. I don’t believe in torching myself.
I just started taking MCT oil, maybe two weeks now. I think I increased the dosage too soon. The side effects I am having are HOT Flashes, Irritability, and Nervousness. I am somewhat afraid to continue using the oil. Oh yeah another issue is my belly fat, I had under control, now I think it is out of control. I am taking the Now Sports brand, (only thing I could find in the stores) C8 and C10. Should I try something different?
Barbara: I am taking the same oil, for the third day now. Other users noted that getting such small amounts from the bottle was “drippy”, so I just pour an unmeasured small amount into my smoothie. About 15 minutes later, I get stomach cramp-type pains, which persist for 15-30 minutes. No problems after that. I take it from this column that my body needs to get accustomed to the oil, so I will keep taking it and expect the upset to pass. So far, I haven’t noticed any change in my mental or emotional status, or in my energy level.
I tried MCT oil for the first time today, took it on an empty stomach as well. With in an hour of the dose I was sweating like a madman, had nausea and then the diarrhea hit me ?. I’ll make sure to take it with something on my stomach next time and even a smaller dose!
I took only 1/8 of a tsp. An hour later I had major diarrhea. That tells me it’s good stuff. I just need to go slow and take with food. (I put it in coffee).
I thought I was going crazy until I read this! Thank you! Totally triggered a panic attack but it was after 2 tablespoons on the first day and flu like symptoms with nausea. However it truly does wake your brain up.
I felt the exact same thing! LOL. I took a tbsp with my vitamins and had a stomach ache, got dizzy and nauseous and very anxious so I read this article and I feel better. LOL. Will most likely discontinue and see how I feel.
Add me to this list! I started taking emulsified MCT oil made from coconut oil, and after a few days of taking 1 tbsp+ each day I started having serious anxiety and getting symptoms like headaches and a tingling numbness in my arms/hands. Going to stop completely for a week or so to see what happens.
Jack, I have experienced the same numbness, tingling in arms and legs which kept me awake at night. Posted my story below today. It’s great to have this site come up in the search as there does not appear to have much in the way of warnings on the product one buys. Would like to know from you if your symptoms go away after not taking it.
Thanks for this article. I was going to give up on MTCs as I was experiencing nausea, hot flashes and oh…hot flashes!!! Adding food and reducing the dosage has decreased the symptoms, so I am encouraged that they will go away with time.
Wow! Everyone at work kept asking me if I was going through the change as I kept going red! :) This is probably why. The thing with me and the reason I looked on this site is that I am so hungry tonight I feel pregnant (I’m not). Could this be due to my metabolism speeding up? I will never sleep… I am so hungry and there is no curbing it. Took slightly more MCT than usual.