The ketogenic diet is all the rage these days. Proponents of this high-fat, low-carbohydrate way of eating say that it can help you lose weight, improve your mental clarity, and stabilize your mood. Many people who follow the keto diet also practice intermittent fasting, which means they abstain from food for set periods of time. But does that mean they have to give up their beloved MCT oil? Let's find out.

MCTs and Fasting: A Quick Primer

MCTs, or medium-chain triglycerides, are a type of saturated fat that is metabolized differently than other types of fat. Unlike long-chain fats, which can take hours to digest, MCTs are absorbed quickly and turned into ketones, which can be used by the body for energy.

Many people who follow the ketogenic diet use MCT oil as a source of energy because it helps them reach and maintain ketosis—a state in which the body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. Since MCTs are absorbed so quickly, some people worry that they will break their fast. However, there is no need to worry—MCT oil will not break your fast.

What Will Break Your Fast?

There are three things that will break your fast: calories, carbohydrates, and protein. If you consume any of these macronutrients while you are fasting, your fast will be broken. MCT oil contains none of these macronutrients, so it cannot break your fast.

Of course, you should use caution when adding anything new to your fasting regimen. Start with a small amount of MCT oil and see how your body reacts before increasing your intake. Some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort when they first start taking MCT oil. If this happens to you, cut back on the amount you're taking or take it with food.

Conclusion:

So there you have it—MCT oil will not break your fast! This means that if you're following a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting regimen, you can enjoy all the benefits of MCT oil without having to worry about breaking your fast. Just remember to start slowly and increase your intake gradually to giving your body time to adjust. And as always, listen to your body—if something doesn't feel right, cut back or stop taking MCT oil altogether.

Want to know what are the best coffee creamers for intermittent fasting? Check out our guide here!

Share this post