When it comes to cooking oils and supplements, the choice can be overwhelming. Among the myriad options, MCT oil and RBD coconut oil stand out due to their unique properties and benefits.
While both are derived from coconuts, they have distinct characteristics that may make one more suitable for your needs than the other. In this article, we’ll dive into what MCT oil and RBD coconut oil are, their nutritional information, benefits, and ultimately, which one might be the better choice for you.
What is MCT Oil?
MCT stands for Medium-Chain Triglycerides, which are fats found in foods like coconut oil and palm kernel oil. MCT oil is a supplement that contains these fats. Unlike longer-chain fats, MCTs are metabolized differently in the body.
They go straight from the gut to the liver, where they are used as an immediate energy source or turned into ketones, which can be beneficial for those following a ketogenic diet.
MCT oil primarily contains the following types of medium-chain fatty acids:
- Caproic Acid (C6): Known for its quick conversion to ketones but has a strong taste.
- Caprylic Acid (C8): Considered the best for quick energy and mental clarity.
- Capric Acid (C10): Slightly slower to convert to energy compared to C8.
- Lauric Acid (C12): Though technically an MCT, it behaves more like a long-chain fatty acid in terms of metabolism.
What is RBD Coconut Oil?
RBD stands for Refined, Bleached, and Deodorized. RBD coconut oil is made from dried coconut meat, also known as copra. This oil undergoes several processes:
- Refining: Removes impurities and free fatty acids.
- Bleaching: Uses bleaching clay to filter the oil, removing any color pigments.
- Deodorizing: Uses high heat to remove the coconut smell and taste.
RBD coconut oil is neutral in taste and odor, making it versatile for cooking and baking without altering the flavor of the food.
Nutritional Information Between MCT Oil vs RBD Coconut Oil
Understanding the nutritional information between MCT oil and RBD coconut oil is crucial when making an informed decision about which oil to incorporate into your diet. Here are the breakdown of these two oils’s nutrition:
| Nutritional Informations | MCT Oil (14 gram) | RBD Coconut Oil (14 gram) |
| Calories | 130 | 120 |
| Total Fat | 14 grams | 14 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 14 grams | 12 grams |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0 gram | 1 gram |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 gram | 0.5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 0 gram | 0 gram |
| Protein | 0 gram | 0 gram |
Comparing MCT Oil vs RBD Coconut Oil
When choosing between MCT oil and RBD coconut oil, it’s important to understand their differences and how each can benefit you. Both are derived from coconuts, but they have distinct characteristics and uses. Let’s explore these differences in detail:
1. Metabolism and Energy
MCT oil is metabolized more quickly and provides an immediate source of energy or ketones, which can be beneficial for those on a ketogenic diet or needing quick energy boosts.
In contrast, RBD coconut oil provides a more sustained energy release due to the presence of longer-chain fatty acids.
2. Cooking Uses
Both MCT oil and coconut oil are easy to incorporate into your regular diet, though they have different uses.
RBD coconut oil is more versatile for cooking due to its higher smoke point and neutral flavor. It can be used in a wide variety of dishes without altering the taste, making it a better choice for culinary applications.
MCT oil is a liquid with a relatively low smoke point, making it suitable for applications where you would use liquid oil, except for cooking.
3. Health Benefits
While both oils offer health benefits, RBD coconut oil’s lauric acid content provides additional antimicrobial properties and heart health benefits.
MCT oil, on the other hand, is primarily beneficial for quick energy and cognitive support.
4. Cost and Accessibility
RBD coconut oil is generally more affordable and widely available compared to MCT oil. This makes it a more accessible option for daily use in cooking and beauty routines.
5. The Oil Production
MCT oil is composed entirely of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), making it a highly concentrated source. It is produced by refining raw coconut or palm oil to eliminate other compounds and concentrate the MCTs found in these oils naturally.
Typically, MCT oils contain 50–80% caprylic acid and 20–50% caproic acid.
Coconut oil, on the other hand, is derived from copra, the kernel or meat of coconuts. It is the richest natural source of MCTs, which make up about 54% of the fat in copra. Coconut oil naturally includes MCTs, specifically 42% lauric acid, 7% caprylic acid, and 5% capric acid.
Besides MCTs, coconut oil also contains long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) and unsaturated fats. Lauric acid, due to its slow digestion and absorption, behaves more like an LCT. Therefore, experts argue that coconut oil should not be considered an MCT-rich oil, despite common claims, because of its high lauric acid content.
RBD Coconut Oil
- RBD Coconut Oil has a high smoke point
- Can withstand higher temperatures without burning or producing harmful compounds
- Enable to achieve delightful textures and flavors in your dishes
Which One is Better and More Beneficial?
When considering which oil is better, it depends on individual needs and preferences. However, RBD coconut oil tends to be more versatile and beneficial overall due to the following reasons:
- Versatility in Use
RBD coconut oil can be used in cooking, baking, and beauty care, making it a multi-purpose product. It is also good to try deep-frying with RBD coconut oil to elevate your cooking experiences.
- Nutritional Benefits
The presence of lauric acid provides additional health benefits, including antimicrobial properties and heart health support.
- Cost-Effective
It is generally more affordable and accessible than MCT oil.
- Sustained Energy
While MCT oil offers quick energy, RBD coconut oil provides a more sustained energy release, making it suitable for a broader range of dietary needs.
So, MCT Oil vs RBD Coconut Oil?
While both MCT oil and RBD coconut oil have their unique benefits, RBD coconut oil stands out for its versatility and broader range of applications in cooking, skincare, and beyond.
It offers a rich profile of MCTs alongside other beneficial compounds, making it a preferred choice for many. For those interested in purchasing RBD coconut oil, especially in bulk, Sari Coconut emerges as a top recommendation from Indonesia.
As the leading certified supplier of coconut derivatives products in Indonesia, Sari Coconut offers a diverse range of high-quality coconut products, including coconut oil, coconut sugar and many more.
If you’re in the food and beverage industry or simply looking to explore the benefits of coconut derivatives, partnering with Sari Coconut ensures access to premium ingredients and reliable supply. Contact Sari Coconut today to discover more about their offerings and partnership opportunities!
FAQ
Is RBD coconut oil refined?
Yes, RBD coconut oil is refined, bleached, and deodorized, which removes impurities and neutralizes the flavor and scent.
Can MCT oil help with weight loss?
MCT oil can help with weight management by increasing the feeling of fullness and boosting metabolism. However, it should be used as part of a balanced diet and healthy
Is RBD coconut oil good for skin and hair?
Yes, RBD coconut oil is widely used in beauty products for its moisturizing properties and can benefit both skin and hair health.
Does MCT oil have a taste?
MCT oil is generally tasteless and odorless, making it easy to incorporate into various foods and beverages without altering their flavor.
Which oil is better for a ketogenic diet?
MCT oil is often preferred for ketogenic diets due to its quick conversion to ketones, providing an immediate energy source.
