C8 MCT Oil Powder, Unflavored by Nutricost is a dietary supplement designed to deliver a concentrated source of caprylic acid (C8), the most ketogenic form of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Unlike traditional fats, C8 is rapidly absorbed and transported directly to the liver, where it is preferentially converted into ketones—molecules that serve as an efficient energy source for the brain and muscles, independent of glucose metabolism. This makes C8 particularly valuable in ketogenic and low-carbohydrate dietary strategies, as well as in clinical settings where energy metabolism is compromised.
Research indicates that C8 MCTs enhance ketone production more effectively than other MCTs (such as C10 or mixed MCT oils), supporting cognitive function, metabolic flexibility, and muscle preservation under catabolic stress. The powdered form, typically blended with a carrier like acacia fiber, improves solubility and gastrointestinal tolerance compared to liquid MCT oils. This formulation allows for easy incorporation into beverages and foods, enhancing adherence and practicality for daily use.
Quick Summary
Full transparency is achieved with a single, clearly labeled ingredient and exact dosage (10g per serving). No proprietary blends obscure the formulation.
The 10 g dose of pure C8 MCT meets clinical standards for metabolic and cognitive support, positioning this product as highly effective for its intended uses, particularly in ketogenic and therapeutic contexts.
C8 MCT is inherently highly bioavailable due to direct portal transport and rapid hepatic metabolism. The powdered form, likely using acacia fiber as a carrier, maintains good solubility and may improve GI tolerance without compromising absorption.
Generally safe for healthy adults when dosed appropriately, but gastrointestinal side effects are common at higher intakes. Medical supervision is advised for at-risk populations.
Suggested: 1 serving/day to reach clinical midpoint
Why Take This Product
Key Benefits
- Enhanced Ketone Production: C8 MCT is the most ketogenic MCT form, rapidly converted into ketones in the liver, providing an efficient alternative energy source for the brain and muscles [1].
- Supports Muscle Oxidative Capacity: In preclinical models of cachexia, MCT supplementation prevented declines in skeletal muscle oxidative function, suggesting a protective role during metabolic stress [1].
- Therapeutic Energy Source in Metabolic Disorders: MCTs are clinically recommended at 10–25% of total energy intake in long-chain fatty acid oxidation disorders, where they serve as a vital alternative fuel [2].
- Improved Gastrointestinal Tolerance in Powder Form: MCT powder formulations, often using acacia fiber as a carrier, are associated with better GI tolerance and portability compared to liquid oils, reducing the risk of digestive discomfort.
- Antimicrobial Effects in the Gut: MCT supplementation has been shown to reduce gastrointestinal fungal burden, particularly Candida spp., in vulnerable populations such as preterm infants [4].
Who Should Take This
Potential Side Effects
Ingredient Breakdown
The formulation centers on C8 MCT oil powder, the primary active ingredient, which is present in a clinically relevant dose. No additional supporting ingredients are listed, maintaining product purity and focus on metabolic ketogenesis.
Primary Ingredients
C8 MCT Oil Powder
Ketogenic energy source, metabolic support
Dose of 10 g falls within the midpoint of the clinical range (5–20 g/day) for ketogenic and metabolic support. Pure C8 formulation maximizes ketone yield compared to mixed MCTs.
Caprylic acid (C8) is a medium-chain triglyceride that is rapidly metabolized in the liver to produce ketones, providing a fast, efficient energy source independent of insulin or carnitine transport. It is the most ketogenic MCT form and is preferred for cognitive, metabolic, and therapeutic applications.
Practical Recommendations
- Start Low And Go Slow: Begin with 1–2 g per day (approximately 1/5 to 1/4 serving) and gradually increase over 1–2 weeks to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
- Ideal For Ketogenic Diets: Use daily as part of a well-formulated ketogenic diet to enhance ketone production and support cognitive and physical performance.
- Monitor In Clinical Conditions: If using for therapeutic purposes (e.g., metabolic disorders), coordinate with a healthcare provider to ensure appropriate dosing and safety.
Is it Safe?
C8 MCT is generally safe for healthy adults when used appropriately. However, due to its hepatic metabolism, caution is advised in individuals with liver impairment. Dosing should be titrated to minimize gastrointestinal side effects, and medical supervision is recommended in clinical populations.
Safety & Considerations
- Medical Condition: Avoid in individuals with impaired liver function due to reliance on hepatic metabolism of MCTs.
- Dosage: Start with low doses (1–2 g/day) and gradually increase to minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea or cramping.
- Population: Use under medical supervision in children, pregnant women, or individuals with metabolic disorders.
- Drug Interaction: Monitor for potential interactions with antiepileptic drugs when used in ketogenic regimens for seizure control.
Reports for Similar Products
The Science
The efficacy of this product is driven by the 10 g dose of pure C8 MCT, which falls within the therapeutic range for cognitive and metabolic support. As the most ketogenic MCT form, C8 at this dose is expected to significantly elevate blood ketone levels, supporting energy metabolism and neurological function.
MCT supplementation (5.0 g/kg/day) prevented reduction in skeletal muscle oxidative capacity in LPS-induced cachectic mice.
MCT supplementation is recommended at 10–25% of total energy in long-chain fatty acid oxidation disorders.
MCT-LCT supplementation (1.95 g/day for 3 days) reduced mortality 1.9-fold in small newborn piglets.
MCT oil supplementation reduced Candida spp. burden in preterm infants.
Feeding calves MCT-rich diets improved insulin responsiveness and body composition.
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