I’m sure by now you’ve heard people babble on about “Bulletproof Coffee”. Other than making me want to break into song (I am Titaaaaaanium….) this pimped up coffee has its benefits!

The main ingredients in Bulletproof Coffee (aside from coffee of course) are grass-fed butter and MCT Oils. However, it is the MCT Oil that is the key ingredient making bulletproof coffee such a powerhouse.

If you have heard of it but are not sure what it is, then read on and I promise you’ll soon be able to talk the (caveman) talk.

What does MCT stand for?

Triglycerides is the more fancy name for what we commonly refer to as fats. MCT simply stands for Medium Chain Triglycerides, and are a type of fat that is less commonly found in day to day foods, especially compared to the much more regularly occurring Long Chain Triglycerides (LCT), which are found in most.

What is MCT Oil?

MCT oil occurs naturally in coconut oil among other foods. When MCT oil is metabolized in the body, it behaves like a carbohydrate rather than a fat. Unlike other fats, MCT oil does not go through the lymphatic system. Instead, it is transported directly to the liver where it is metabolised so it releases energy like a carbohydrate and creates ketones in the process.

You’ve probably heard ketones mentioned many times before, and are thinking they may be related to a ketogenic diet. Well you’d be right – and ketones have been hailed as the ultimate brain fuel.

What are the benefits of taking MCT oil?

MCTs are very easy for the body to break down and use as energy; this is due to the MCTs being taken directly to the liver where they act very similar to carbohydrates and provide quick energy.

MCT’s improve blood sugar regulation, and may help metabolism when ingested regularly, particularly metabolism of other fats.

If you haven’t tried MCT oil before, when you do you will quickly find out that it’s like rocket fuel for your body! This is particularly the case if you are 'fat adapted' which comes from following a low carb high fat diet.

Who is MCT Oil for?

MCT oil has been popular amongst many athletes for a number of years, and is increasingly becoming more popular as higher quality MCT oil is produced.

Bodybuilders have often used it when on an extremely low carb diet to provide energy. It has also traditionally been used in hospitals for recovering patients where digestion of foods is particularly difficult.

More recently though, MCT oil is becoming the fuel of choice for athletes ranging from crossfitters to powerlifters, and anyone who trains hard can feel the benefits of MCT Oils.

Recipes with MCT Oil

So what are the easiest ways to get MCT oils into your diet? Here we have three simple recipes which are great for adding in MCTs naturally. Try them pre-workout for a serious boost in performance!

Bulletproof coffee

Ingredients:

• 1 cup good quality coffee (not instant)
• 1 Tbsp (unsalted) grass-fed butter (Kerrygold is a common brand)
• 1 Tbsp Primal Energy MCT Oil

Method: 1. Add all of the ingredients to your blender and blend until frothy. Serve Immediately.

Salad Dressing:

Replace your standard olive oil dressing and use MCT oil.

Ingredients:

• 1–2 Tbsp Primal Energy MCT Oil
• Juice of 1 lemon or lime Salt/pepper

Method: Add all of the ingredients to a jam jar, replace the lid and shake well. Pour over your salad to enjoy.

Supercharged Smoothie

Ingredients:

• Stevia to sweeten
• 1/2 avocado
• 1 green apple
• 1 Tbsp almond butter
• 1 Tbsp Primal Energy
• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
• 400ml (tin) coconut milk or almond milk
• Cacao nibs & flaked almonds on top Ice (optional)

Method: Add all of the ingredients ( except the nibs/almonds) to a blender and blend until smooth, Sprinkle on the toppings and serve immediately.

So there we have three simple recipes for adding MCTs into your diet. I’d love to hear your recipes – what do you make, and when have you found is best to take MCTs for maximum energy?

This article is a guest post from our newest ambassador, Aimee.