Is MCT Wellness a viable option for achieving weight loss and enhancing mental focus? If you find yourself contending with low energy levels and excess weight, you are not alone. Between 2017 and March 2020, the prevalence of obesity in the United States was 41.9%. Additionally, as of 2021, 19 states reported rates more than double those of 2018. Concerning weight loss, statistics reveal that almost half of U.S. adults attempt to shed unwanted pounds at least once a year. Notably, 56.4% of women and 41.7% of men express the intention to embark on weight loss journeys.
Given these statistics, it is unsurprising that the dietary supplements like Earth Energy Fruits & Veggies market is valued at $155.2 billion, with analysts forecasting it to reach $220.8 billion by 2027. Many individuals seek a prompt and efficient solution to their concerns, hoping for something to alleviate the challenges associated with dieting.
Among the prevailing supplements, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oils stand out, believed to promote healthy weight management, enhance energy levels, and improve cognitive function. Our focus was on one such popular MCT oil—MCT Wellness from Gundry MD—to explore its potential benefits. Our review comprehensively outlines the supplement’s advantages, drawbacks, and critical details, aiding you in determining whether it aligns with your needs.
What is MCT Wellness?
MCT Wellness stands as a plant-based dietary supplement developed by the reputable manufacturer Gundry MD. This delightful fruit-flavored powder, when mixed with water or juice and consumed daily, has the potential to enhance cognition, boost metabolism, improve complexion, and aid in fat burning. Even though the included ingredients boast some evidence supporting these benefits, it is worth noting that MCT Wellness is underdosed in comparison to the quantities observed in various studies.
The brainchild of former cardiac surgeon Dr. Stephen Gundry, Gundry MD came into existence in 2015. Dr. Gundry, driven by the belief that numerous health conditions may stem from inadequate nutrition, established the company to address this concern. His private practice at the International Heart & Lung Institute focuses on assisting individuals with weight loss and guiding them toward healthier lifestyles. Simultaneously, the Gundry MD website offers an extensive array of products, including dietary supplements like Gundry MD Total Restore, skin and hair care items, foods, and more.
Pros
- The products feature vegan, organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free ingredients.
- Enjoy complimentary shipping on orders exceeding $49.
- Rigorously third-party tested to ensure unparalleled quality.
- Proudly manufactured in a U.S. GMP-certified facility.
- Unlock substantial savings through subscription memberships and bulk purchases.
- We stand by our products with a reassuring 90-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- The proprietary blend employed may make it challenging to discern individual ingredient amounts.
- While Gundry MD’s commitment to quality is unmatched, our products may be priced slightly higher than those of some competitors.
- It’s worth noting that the fruit extracts may provide quantities below the clinically recommended dosages.
How Does MCT Wellness Operate?
MCT, an abbreviation for medium-chain triglycerides, denotes a category of saturated fatty acids. MCT oil is derived from either coconut oil or, in certain instances, palm kernel oil, both of which share similar nutritional profiles. These MCTs have the potential to elevate ketone levels in the body, potentially even in the absence of the strict carbohydrate restriction characteristic of a traditional ketogenic diet.
To consume MCT Wellness, blend one scoop of powder into the beverage of your choice — the company recommends 10 ounces of water.
Each daily serving (one scoop) encompasses 30 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, 3 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of dietary fiber, derived from the following ingredients:
- MCT Prebiotic Blend: 5,500mg (5.5g)
- Redcurrant and blackcurrant extract: 400mg
- Red grape extract: 250mg
Additional ingredients comprise:
- Malic acid
- Natural flavor
- Enzymatically modified stevia
- Citric acid
- Silica
- Fermented Rebaudioside-M (a sugarcane-derived sugar substitute)
Individuals with food allergies should take note that MCT Wellness is produced from coconut oil, similar to MCT products offered by various competitors such as Bulletproof and Nature’s Way.
MCT Prebiotic Blend
The MCT Prebiotic Blend in the supplement features C8 MCT oil, derived from coconuts, and acacia gum. Unfortunately, owing to the proprietary nature of blends, determining the exact quantity of MCT oil within the 5,500mg blend is challenging, akin to the proprietary blend employed in Naomi’s MCT products. Although MCT oils exhibit some evidential support for potential benefits, proprietary blends hinder the ability to ascertain if the administered amount aligns with or closely approximates the doses utilized in studies.
In various aforementioned studies, researchers have identified that MCT oil enhances weight loss and augments satiety, consequently diminishing cravings. Additionally, MCTs may potentially:
- Enhance energy levels
- Alleviate inflammation
- Facilitate the body’s production of ketones
- Regulate blood sugar levels
Furthermore, certain MCT oils, particularly virgin coconut oil, possess skin-soothing and moisturizing properties. MCT oil may also aid individuals with digestive problems or absorption issues in obtaining essential nutrients.
The other constituent of MCT Wellness’ blend, acacia gum, serves as a prebiotic fiber that may contribute to lowering cholesterol levels while increasing satiety and reducing peak blood glucose response. This, in turn, aids in preventing and managing type 2 diabetes and undesired excess weight. As a prebiotic, acacia gum nourishes our gut flora, thwarting the accumulation of harmful bacteria in our GI tract.
Extracts of Redcurrant and Blackcurrant
The extracts of redcurrant and blackcurrant boast elevated levels of vitamin C, facilitating immune support, among other advantages. They fall under the category of antioxidants known as polyphenols, are abundant in quercetin, and are associated with various health benefits, including:
- Enhanced blood sugar control
- Diminished swelling or inflammation
- Anti-cancer properties
- Lowered risk of heart disease
Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that the 400mg dosage in MCT Wellness may prove less efficacious when juxtaposed with the standard 1,000mg dosage observed in numerous scientific studies.
Red Grape Extract
Red grape extract boasts a high resveratrol content, emulating the effects of calorie restriction and demonstrating the potential to reduce lipid content in the liver. Its robust antioxidant properties may yield the following advantages:
- Enhanced Immunity
- Elevated Plasma Antioxidant Capacity
- Improved Urinary Ultrafiltration
- Reduced Glucose Levels
- Lowered Heart Rate
- Mitigated Inflammation
- Enhanced Endothelial Function
Comparable to redcurrant and blackcurrant extracts, it is noteworthy that the dosage of red grape extract in MCT Wellness falls short of the recommended clinical range of 1g to 5g per day. Furthermore, resveratrol excretion occurs within four hours post-ingestion.
Compare the MCT Wellness Reviews with SkinnyFit Reviews.
Is MCT Wellness Considered Safe?
It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating MCT Wellness into your supplement routine, as with any new supplement. While MCTs are generally regarded as safe in moderation, exercising caution is prudent, especially if you have preexisting conditions or are currently on medications.
Despite the absence of reported side effects for MCT Wellness, certain individuals may encounter digestive issues, including:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
Digestive problems are frequently associated with MCT oil supplements across the competitive landscape, particularly liquid oils like Onnit MCT Oil. Reviews of powders and capsules, however, seem to mention digestive upset less frequently. Starting with a gradual dosage and progressively increasing it may help prevent these side effects as your body adjusts to the supplement.
MCT oil facilitates the conversion to ketones in the body, promoting thermogenesis, nutritional ketosis, weight loss, appetite suppression, and the breakdown of stored fat. Nutritional ketosis is a debated topic among nutrition and dietary experts and should not be sustained long-term without the supervision of a medical provider. Individuals with diabetes should avoid attempting nutritional ketosis, as the accumulation of ketones in the kidneys can pose risks. If you are utilizing MCT Wellness to enhance a keto diet, it is crucial to inform your doctor.
Individuals under 18, pregnant or nursing individuals, should avoid products containing caprylic acid (C8 MCT oil, as used in MCT Wellness and some alternatives like Bulletproof). For those with chronic health conditions or on ongoing medication, consulting with a doctor before incorporating any new supplement into your daily regimen is strongly recommended.
In the event of adverse side effects while taking MCT Wellness, it is advisable to discontinue use and seek guidance from your doctor.
Is MCT Wellness A Commendable Investment?
Gundry MD’s MCT Wellness stands as one of the more premium-priced MCT formulas available in the market. Nevertheless, it incorporates additional potentially advantageous ingredients not found in other brands, although they may be underdosed. We acknowledge the product’s third-party testing and its manufacturing in a GMP-certified facility. However, alternative brands such as Nature’s Way, Naomi, and Garden of Life provide comparable offerings.
Considering the variations in cost per serving, we suggest considering the subscription membership program and purchasing in bulk to realize cost savings.
Pricing Of MCT Wellness
MCT Wellness is available for purchase through various channels, including pharmacies, vitamin shops, and online retailers. Opting to acquire the product directly from Gundry MD not only ensures convenient accessibility but also presents an opportunity for substantial savings through participation in the company’s complimentary membership or subscription.
For those considering bulk purchases, an advantageous option is to procure six jars within the subscription program. This strategic choice reduces the cost per serving from $2.66 to a mere $1.24. Although this may still amount to a total expenditure exceeding $200, it stands as a noteworthy reduction compared to the base price, which surpasses $400.
| Quantity | Price | Cost per serving |
|---|---|---|
| 1 jar | $79.95 | $2.66 |
| 1 jar (membership purchase) | $49.95 | $1.67 |
| 1 jar (subscription) | $44.95 | $1.50 |
| 3 jars | $215.85 | $2.40 |
| 3 jars (membership purchase) | $134.85 | $1.50 |
| 3 jars (subscription) | $119.85 | $1.33 |
| 6 jars | $407.70 | $2.26 |
| 6 jars (membership purchase) | $251.70 | $1.40 |
| 6 jars (subscription) | $221.70 | $1.24 |
Moreover, Gundry MD extends complimentary shipping for orders exceeding $49, eliminating any additional expense for shipping when placing an order for MCT Wellness via the company’s website. This stands in contrast to competitors such as Onnit, Naomi, and Bulletproof, which only offer free shipping for amounts exceeding the cost of a single product. We value this advantageous shipping arrangement as part of our commitment to providing a seamless customer experience.
Refund Policy
GundryMD is pleased to provide a comprehensive 90-day money-back guarantee, offering an ample timeframe for returns. In comparison to Bulletproof’s 30-day policy, GundryMD’s return policy stands out. While it is comparable to Onnit’s policy, it is surpassed by Naomi’s remarkable 365-day return policy, one of the most extensive refund policies we have encountered.
Options Beyond MCT Wellness
To provide you with a comprehensive understanding of MCT Wellness in comparison to other available alternatives, we have assembled a comparative chart below. Please note that the pricing does not encompass subscription plans, which can often result in substantial savings (hence, the table denotes whether brands offer subscription options).
| Brand | Price | Quantity | MCTs per Serving | Other Beneficial Ingredients | Servings | Cost per Serving | Gluten-Free | Vegan | Subscription Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gundry MD MCT Wellness | $79.95 ($49.95 with free account sign-up) | 8.25oz | Unknown; 5.5g of proprietary “MCT Prebiotic Blend” | Redcurrant and Blackcurrant extract – 400mg; Grape Polyphenol Complex – 250mg | 30 | $2.66 | Yes | No | 10% off 1-jar plan, 20% off 3-jar plan, and 30% off 6-jar plan |
| Onnit MCT Oil | $24.95 | 24oz | 12.7g | About 47 | $0.53 | 15% off | No | No | – |
| Bulletproof Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil 16oz | $26.95 | 16oz | 14g | About 32 | $0.84 | 20% off | – | – | Also offers deals on 3-pack bulk purchases of 16oz and 32oz bottles |
| Bulletproof Brain Octane Softgels | $18.95 | 60 softgels | 2g | 30 | $0.63 | No | No | 20% off | – |
| Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Keto Organic MCT Powder | $26.39 | 10.58oz | 6g | Organic Acacia Prebiotic Fiber – 3g; Lactobacillus plantarum – 10mg | 30 | $0.90 | No | No | – |
| Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Brain Health Organic Coconut MCT Oil Liquid | $20.79 | 16oz | 13g | About 32 | $0.65 | No | No | – | – |
| Naomi Creamy MCT Oil Powder: Unflavored | $15.99 | 9.5oz | About 5.4g; company uses a blend but notes that roughly 60% of each 9g is MCTs | Organic Acacia Fiber – approximately 3.6g | About 30 | $0.53 | – | – | The company offers subscriptions, but not on this product |
| Naomi Creamy MCT Vanilla Coconut Swirl | $39 | 16oz | About 7.5g; company states that 50% of each 15g is MCTs | About 31 | $1.26 | $39 off; Requires you to purchase three bottles, delivered every 90 days — you get three for the price of two | – | – | – |
| Nature’s Way, Organic MCT Oil | $26.49 | 16oz | 14g | 32 | $0.83 | No | – | – | – |
| Bubs Naturals MCT Oil Powder | $37.00 | 10.6oz | 5g | About 30 | $1.23 | 15% off | – | – | – |
Reasons to Place Your Trust in Us
Throughout the past two decades, Supplements 4 Fitness Research has played a pivotal role in assisting tens of millions of readers in making well-informed decisions regarding their health and lifestyle choices. To provide you with impartial recommendations, we have diligently researched and assessed numerous MCT oil products in the competitive market, meticulously examining over 20 scientific journals and studies.
Our assessment of products and services is rooted in current health standards and medical research, and we continuously scrutinize our information to ensure its ongoing relevance.
Furthermore, in line with the rigorous standards applied to all health-related content on this website, this review underwent thorough vetting by one or more members of our Medical Review Board to guarantee accuracy.
Our Evaluation of MCT Wellness
To elucidate our evaluation process, we have delineated the rationale behind each of the five criteria employed to assess MCT Wellness: safety, efficacy, convenience, cost, and taste.
Given that dietary supplements lack FDA regulation (“…no provisions in the law for FDA to approve dietary supplements for safety before they reach the consumer”), the precautions taken by a company to ensure consumer safety are of paramount importance. This typically involves measures such as third-party testing and manufacturing the product in a GMP-certified facility.
Following safety considerations is the efficacy of the supplement; consumers generally seek products that are not only safe but also effective, especially considering the financial investment involved. Subsequently, we delve into the aspect of convenience, recognizing its subjective nature, yet acknowledging its potential impact on the sustained use of a supplement. In certain instances, convenience can also influence the acceptability of our next criterion: cost. The pricing of MCT oil supplements varies considerably across the competitive landscape, and these costs do not always correlate proportionally with the quantity of MCT present in a product.
Lastly, taste is a crucial factor to consider; while the flavor of a supplement may not initially appear significant, it holds substantial influence and has the potential to dissuade individuals from using a product altogether. Even though taste is inherently subjective, it warrants thorough examination.
Safety Rating: 8/10
Gundry MD employs third-party testing and produces its products in GMP-certified facilities within the United States, mirroring practices of competitors such as Garden of Life and Naomi. Despite the proprietary nature of the MCT Wellness blend, making it challenging to determine the precise quantity of MCT, even if the entire 5.5g blend consisted of MCT oil, it would remain significantly below the potentially hazardous upper limit proposed by some researchers (ranging from 50-100g).
Concerning allergens, Gundry MD, like others, uses coconut oil as the source of its MCT oil. Individuals with coconut or tree nut allergies should avoid MCT oil products derived from such sources. Furthermore, a study on mice suggested that MCT oils might exacerbate peanut allergies and anaphylactic reactions.
Efficacy Rating: 6/10
While MCT Wellness may prove effective for some individuals, the obscured ingredient amounts do not align with those in studies demonstrating positive outcomes. For instance, a study showcasing cognitive improvements in Alzheimer’s patients utilized 42g of MCT per day.9 Another study on the benefits of MCT oil for weight loss and metabolic factors administered doses of 18g to women and 24g to men.
Moreover, the underdosing issue extends to the supplement’s MitoHeal (Redcurrant and Blackcurrant Extract) and CogniGrape (a component in MCT Wellness’ Grape Polyphenol Complex). A study on MitoHeal’s effectiveness on skin health used 500mg and 1,000mg, while MCT Wellness provides only 400mg. Although promising research on CogniGrape’s cognitive effects utilizes an amount identical to that in MCT Wellness (250mg), it’s crucial to note that Gundry MD integrates CogniGrape into a blend, not as 250mg of pure CogniGrape (Source). Similar to the MCT blend, the actual quantities remain undisclosed.
While the use of proprietary blends in supplements is not uncommon, Gundry MD should enhance transparency regarding the ingredients in MCT Wellness. There are means to achieve transparency without revealing exact amounts. A competitor, Naomi, accomplishes this by disclosing the approximate percentage of total MCTs in the blend used for its Creamy MCT Oil Powder.
It is imperative to highlight that Gundry MD’s assertion that bioflavonoids facilitate the rapid movement of MCT or other ketones through the body lacks current research or evidence to substantiate it.
Convenience Rating: 7/10
According to Gundry MD, it is recommended to blend MCT Wellness with 10 ounces of water, allowing 3-5 minutes for complete dissolution—a process typical of powdered supplements.
Reviewers seem to consider MCT oil powders more convenient due to the potentially messy nature of liquid oils, especially for frequent travelers. Ultimately, the convenience of a product depends on individual preferences. If you wish to avoid potential oil spillage, a powder like MCT Wellness might be ideal. Conversely, if you prefer the simplicity of adding a tablespoon of oil to your beverage over scooping and mixing powders, that is also an option. For those uninterested in either approach, companies like Bulletproof offer MCT oil in capsule form.
Cost Rating: 6/10
Through our research, we discovered that the amount of MCT oil in a product does not always correlate with its price. For example, two competitors of MCT Wellness, Garden of Life and Bubs Naturals, offer powders with similar product and MCT oil quantities, but Bubs Naturals’ supplement costs nearly $10 more than Garden of Life’s. However, this price difference pales in comparison to MCT Wellness, priced at $49.95 even with the discount for the company’s free membership. Without the membership, MCT Wellness is priced at $79.95. With an undisclosed amount of MCT oil at one of the highest prices identified, it raises questions about the value of MCT Wellness.
To economize on MCT Wellness, one can explore Gundry MD’s membership or subscription options. However, even with these discounts, the cost likely exceeds alternatives offering more MCT, such as Garden of Life’s Dr. Formulated Keto Organic MCT powder, priced at $26.39 and providing a guaranteed 6g of MCT oil.
Taste Rating: 7/10
At the time of our purchase, Watermelon Lemonade was the sole flavor available, proving surprisingly delicious and refreshing when mixed with water or fruit juice. The limitation of Gundry MD’s flavors (Watermelon Lemonade and Raspberry Medley) is their compatibility issues with other beverages like coffee or tea. Some MCT oil supplements, like Naomi’s Creamy MCT Vanilla Coconut Swirl, are better suited for such drinks. However, if you consistently consume MCT oil with water or juice, MCT Wellness presents a favorable option.
Closing Remarks
Lastly, we have provided a comprehensive review, leading us to affirm that MCT Wellness appears to be a commendable product. To bolster confidence, it would benefit from providing additional information on the certification of the sources for its ingredients. Operating since 2015, MCT Wellness has garnered a commendable record, with no reported significant concerns regarding its efficacy or safety. Notably, the predominant focus of reviews centers around the purchasing experience rather than the product itself. Despite this, MCT Wellness stands as a viable choice for those seeking a holistic solution for heightened energy, improved cognitive health, and enhanced skin well-being. It is imperative, however, to seek guidance from a healthcare professional before embarking on any new treatment.
