Better Nutrition August 2020

ASK THE NUTRITIONIST
Dr. Bronner’s
Ellyndale Organics Bulletproof Brain
Regenerative Organic Coconut Infusions
Octane Oil
Coconut Oil
caused by numerous pathogenic bugs,
including Candida albicans, bacteria,
and viruses. For the best health benefits
and the most nutrients, opt for organic,
unrefined virgin coconut oil.
Regardless of which one you choose,
be aware that taking too much MCT oil
or coconut oil can lead to stomach
discomfort, cramping, diarrhea, and
bloating. So, it’s a good idea to start
small (say, ½ Tbs. per day), see how your
body reacts, and increase as tolerated to
a maximum dose of 3–4 Tbs per day.
If you experience digestive distress
from supplementing with MCT oil,
consider trying another brand of the
40 • AUGUST 2020
product. Some people who experience
digestive trouble from MCT oil may react
to the proprietary blend of MCTs or to
the solvents used in the processing that
may not be in another brand. Popular
brands include Nutiva 100% Organic
Coconut MCT Oil and MCT powders;
Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil; and
hexane-free Garden of Life Dr. Formulated
100% Organic Coconut MCT Oil.
If you don’t like the taste of one
brand of coconut oil, try another. There
can be differences in flavor depending
on where the product is sourced and
how it is processed. Common brands
include Jarrow Formulas Extra Virgin,
Garden of Life
Dr. Formulated
MCT Oil
Nutiva Organic
MCT Powder
Cold Pressed Organic Coconut Oil; Viva
Naturals Extra Virgin Organic Coconut
Oil; Dr. Bronner’s Regenerative Organic
Coconut Oil; and Nature’s Way Extra
Virgin, Unrefined Coconut Oil.
Finally, whether you decide to
use MCT oil, coconut oil, or both in
your diet, understand that MCT oil
supplies no essential fatty acids (EFAs)
and coconut oil supplies a negligible
amount. As the name implies, EFAs are
essential for our health and well-being.
To avoid becoming deficient in EFAs,
eat plenty of cold-water fish, grass-fed
beef, omega-3-enriched eggs, hemp
seeds, and flaxseeds.
Photo: adobestock.com