MCT Oils vs. Coconut Oils – Comparing the Benefits and Uses

MCT Oils vs. Coconut Oils – Comparing the Benefits and Uses

Food supplements are among the most effective ways of boosting your well-being. Health professionals recommend numerous fats to include in our diet, but most are torn between MCT vs. coconut oil. Both boast valuable properties, but they produce slightly different results, health-wise. You should also consume them appropriately to make the most of their nutritional value and taste. Let’s explore the benefits and uses of MCT and coconut oils.

What Is the Difference Between MCT Oil and Coconut Oil?

You might be asking yourself, is MCT oil the same as coconut oil? While there’s some overlap, they aren’t the same compounds. 


MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) oil can be sourced from coconuts, but it’s much more concentrated than coconut oil. It’s entirely made of MCTs, whereas coconut oils only contain around 45-65% of MCTs. The remainder consists of lesser-grade, short and long chain fatty acids.

What Are the Benefits of MCT Oils?

MCT oils can facilitate your bodily functions in many ways:

Achieves Ketosis

Ketosis is a low-carb metabolic state where your blood ketone levels are elevated. It may help you burn fat, make you less hungry, and help you retain muscle.


Melrose MCT Kick Start oil contains C8 and C10 MCTs to help you achieve ketosis faster and maintain the state for longer. It provides natural energy and optimal weight management without causing fat deposits.

Improves Digestive Health

MCT oil may help to remedy digestion issues, due to its ability to balance gut bacteria. It enhances the absorption of minerals and vitamins, which is also crucial to your digestive health. It’s especially effective when combined with probiotics and other digestive health supplements.

Protects Heart Health

MCT oils feature impressive metabolic benefits that may help to lower your risk of obesity and the risk of many cardiovascular diseases.  The anti-inflammatory effects of MCT oil help facilitate heart health, along with natural saturated fats which promote a lower risk of heart disease. 

How Do You Consume MCT Oil?

Since MCT oil is flavourless, you can include it in a wide range of foods and beverages. It’s best used as an ingredient in keto coffee, smoothies, and bliss balls. 

What Are the Benefits of Coconut Oils?

Coconut is considered a superfood, offering a huge number of health benefits:

Assists With Weight Loss

Like MCT oils, coconut oils can also help you lose weight. They contain medium-chain triglycerides that can help you burn as many as 120 calories every day.

Wards Off Bacteria

About half of the fatty acids in coconut oils are lauric acid, known for killing fungi, viruses, and bacteria, with the ability to protect you from various infections.  

How Do You Use Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil has a sweet taste and is used slightly differently than MCT oil. It’s generally used in baking goods, but it also serves as cooking oil. It can also be used topically on skin & hair to help lock in moisture and soothe irritation. 


Melrose Premium Liquid Coconut Oil can complement practically any cuisine with its light aroma and a nutty flavour. You can also use it for desserts or as a dressing over salads. 


Support Your Health With Gentle Ingredients

MCT and coconut oils are some of the most beneficial substances you can add to your diet. Supporting mental and physical health for optimal performance, they have the added bonus of being highly versatile in the kitchen.

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Cliff Harvey

Cliff Harvey is an author, clinician, researcher and speaker. He is a leader in the field of carb-appropriate nutrition, mind-body healthcare, and the achievement of success in health and performance. Cliff has a PhD in Nutrition(AUT) – research focus was in ketogenesis, ‘keto-flu’ and individualisation of diets, has over 20 years experience as a strength and nutrition coach and is also a registered Clinical Nutritionist as a member of the Clinical Nutrition Association. He also holds qualifications as a Qualified Naturopath (Dip.Nat - NXNZ), a Diploma in Fitness Training (AUT), a Certificate in Health Coaching and Patient Care and is a Certified Kettlebell Instructor (MKA).