MCT Oil Powder

Ryon Feyt
2 hours ago
2 min read

Rapidly available energy substrate for sustained output

Science and Ingredients — Formulation Research

This entry documents the biological mechanisms, human research, and formulation rationale for ingredients used in Steady Energy. Content is provided for transparency and educational purposes, not marketing.

Red cherries on rustic wooden surface, green leaves in background, vibrant and fresh. — MCT Oil in a glass bottle with a cork stopper, surrounded by fresh coconut pieces, sits on a rustic wooden table, highlighting its natural and health-conscious appeal.

Why it's included

To provide a rapidly metabolized energy source that supports sustained physical and mental performance without reliance on sugar.

What it is

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are a class of dietary fats composed primarily of caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) fatty acids. Unlike long-chain fats, MCTs are absorbed directly through the portal vein and transported to the liver, where they are rapidly converted into usable energy.

MCT oil powder is a stabilized, powdered form of MCT oil designed for improved handling, mixing, and gastrointestinal tolerance.

Mechanism of action

MCTs differ from most dietary fats in how they are metabolized:

Rapid intestinal absorption
Direct transport to the liver
Preferential oxidation for energy
Potential conversion to ketone bodies

Because of this pathway, MCTs can provide a quick, non-glucose energy source that does not require insulin for uptake. This makes them metabolically distinct from carbohydrates and long-chain fats.

These effects relate to energy availability, not stimulation.

Evidence overview

Human studies show MCTs are rapidly oxidized compared to long-chain fats
MCT intake increases circulating ketone levels in humans
Research evaluates MCTs for endurance and energy availability
Effects depend on dose, fatty acid composition, and metabolic context

Why this matters for long workdays

Extended physical labor and long shifts increase energy demand while appetite or meal timing may be inconsistent. Rapidly available fuel sources can help maintain output when glycogen availability is limited.

Providing an alternative energy substrate supports steadier performance without relying solely on sugars or stimulants.

Role in Steady Energy

MCT oil powder is included to support metabolic flexibility and sustained energy availability alongside carbohydrates, electrolytes, and mitochondrial support ingredients.

This reinforces Steady Energy’s approach of supplying usable fuel rather than relying on acute stimulation.

References

Human studies and peer-reviewed research are cited where available.

St-Onge MP, Jones PJH. Physiological effects of medium-chain triglycerides: potential agents in the prevention of obesity. Journal of Nutrition, 2002.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=St-Onge+Jones+medium+chain+triglycerides+physiological+effects
Clegg ME. Medium-chain triglycerides are advantageous in promoting weight loss although not directly relevant to endurance. Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, 2010.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Clegg+medium+chain+triglycerides+energy+oxidation
Vandenberghe C et al. Medium-chain triglycerides modulate ketone body production and energy metabolism in humans. Nutrition Reviews, 2017.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Vandenberghe+medium+chain+triglycerides+ketone+production
Jeukendrup AE et al. Oxidation of medium-chain triglycerides during exercise. Journal of Applied Physiology, 1998.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Jeukendrup+medium+chain+triglycerides+exercise+oxidation

This ingredient profile is part of the Steady Energy formulation research series.