Summary
MCT Wellness from Gundry MD is a supplement that allegedly increases your metabolism, enhances your mental sharpness, and provides additional energy.
By Anthony Dugarte, M.D., C.S.C.S
Published on: Dec 4, 2019
Medium-Chain triglyceride (MCT) oil has been gaining popularity as a weight-loss supplement.
MCT Wellness from Gundry MD aims to accomplish this task, in addition to offering other health benefits.
Similar products are often marketed to supplement those on a ketogenic diet, but can anyone use this product?
In this article, we will review the safety, effectiveness, and target audience of this product.
By mixing one scoop of MCT Wellness in 10oz of water each day, this supplement works to boost your metabolism, energy, and mental sharpness by increasing ketone levels.
Gundy MD believes these effects to be possible through a blend of 3 all-natural ingredients.
MCT Wellness combines caprylic acid, grape seed extract, and currant extract. While the caprylic acid works to quickly boost your ketones, the grape seed and currant extracts increase blood flow to deliver the ketones throughout your body.
MCTs differ from their long-chain (LCT) counterparts in that they are smaller in structure, allowing for rapid transport to the liver where they can be used as an immediate source of energy.
MCT oil is a compound typically obtained from coconut oil. goMCT® contains 5,000mg of pure caprylic acid, one of the most efficient fuel sources of all MCTs, and is the only patented MCT oil powder on the market.
The caprylic acid found in MCT Wellness may offer weight loss aid through a number of mechanisms.
It was the most ketogenic MCT in a recent study. This effect is thought to be even more meaningful when taken in conjunction with a ketogenic diet as your body preferentially burns fat for energy in the absence of carbohydrates; reduction in blood lipids, body fat, body weight, and favorable effects regarding diabetes have been described.
MCTs are more readily used for energy, whereas LCTs can be easily stored as fat. Consuming 15-30g of MCTs may aid weight reduction by increasing energy expenditure and burning more calories.
It would seem that the energy deficit (calories consumed vs. calories burned) would further benefit weight loss with the addition of regular exercise, though exercise and MCT do not appear to have a cumulative effect.
Dr. Gundry believes true health requires harmony among the many microbes in your body. When this system is thrown off, your immune system, digestion, and overall health may suffer.
MCT promotes gut health and prevents the activation of a gut-derived toxin thought to be associated with obesity, though this connection is more clear in rodent populations than in humans.
Lastly, MCT consumption may result in lower blood sugar and triglyceride levels after meals, as well as a longer sense of fullness through the promotion of leptin and peptide YY, both of which have antiappetite roles. Limiting hunger can also make it easier to adhere to a diet.
MCT may aid weight loss by promoting ketogenesis, enhancing calorie expenditure, improving gut health, and decreasing caloric intake through the promotion of antiappetite hormones. Much of the support is in short-term studies with small sample sizes, though the benefits seem to occur even at doses less than half of what is included in one serving of MCT Wellness.
The effects of MCT on the sympathetic nervous system and calorie expenditure may be related to their ability to boost energy. As MCTs are able to avoid the pathway necessary for LCT metabolism, they are quickly absorbed and offer an instant source of energy.
In addition to a potential method for starting your day, MCT may benefit athletic performance. Athletes who consumed MCT were able to train longer and described lower perception of exertion levels than those that received LCT.
MCTs offer a readily available source of energy that has been shown to increase energy expenditure at doses less than half of what is included in MTC Wellness, and consisting of only 50-60% caprylic acid.
As reduced brain glucose has been associated with early Alzheimer’s, alternate sources of energy are thought to have a positive impact. Ketones can cross the blood brain barrier and can offer a source of fuel for your brain in the absence of carbs.
Both high (17,000mg) and low (2,000mg) doses of MCT have been associated with improved cognition, memory, and processing speed in those with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
The impact on healthy individuals has been studied less extensively, more research is needed to describe the potential benefits in this regard.
MCT supplementation may improve cognitive ability in Alzheimer’s patients. Benefits have been demonstrated at doses more than 5x, as well as half, of what is included in one serving of MTC Wellness. More research is needed to identify benefits in healthy users.
MitoHeal® and CognigrapeTM are currant and grape seed extracts, respectively. These ingredients support the effects of the caprylic acid component of MCT Wellness. Little is listed on Gundry MD beyond this role.
These extracts seem to carry out their effects through flavonoids, compounds responsible for many of the benefits of fruit and vegetable consumption.
Currant extract may have a variety of potential health benefits related to antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and glucose regulatory effects. Additionally, it may promote fat oxidation, especially in endurance athletes.
Vascular effects may be related to associations with nitric oxide, vital for increasing blood flow, though this is based on laboratory research Lastly, cholesterol-lowering effects have been demonstrated in mice and laboratory models.
Grape seed extract may have anti-inflammatory, vascular, and cognitive benefits.
While information regarding the benefits of currant and grape seed extracts is limited on the Gundry MD site, the supportive role of these ingredients may be related to the effects of their flavonoids.
Possible benefits include enhanced fat oxidation, cholesterol reduction, increased blood flow, and cognitive benefits at doses comparable to what is included in MCT Wellness. These effects are supported by both animal and human research, though more long-term studies are required to characterize the effects of chronic use.
Generally speaking, MCT Wellness is safe. Even at doses greater than 5x what is included in a single serving of MCT Wellness, caprylic acid appears to be safe with little more than an upset stomach, constipation, or diarrhea described.
Though MCT is less likely to be stored as fat when compared to LCT, those with elevated blood lipids may want to avoid this product. High doses in mice still resulted in the favorable effects on body fat, though lipids accumulated in the liver.
Dr. Gundry suggests consulting your primary care physician prior to starting any new program - illustrating the importance to include a medical professional even when the product comes from a credible source.
Gundry MD offers little information on the website in terms of who would benefit from MCT Wellness. As the proposed effects include increased metabolism, energy, and mental sharpness, anyone in need of these effects may benefit from use.
Specifically, evidence supports use for overweight individuals, those that engage in endurance exercise, and those with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Benefits demonstrated in certain populations do not mean that the same results can be expected in other individuals, however.
These effects appear to be possible regardless of the diet you choose, though as MCT boosts ketones, greater improvements in blood lipids, body fat, and total body weight may be seen when used in conjunction with a ketogenic diet.
Many of these studies include relatively small sample sizes in which subjects were followed for short periods of time. More long-term research is needed to characterize the safety and effectiveness of chronic use of MCT in certain populations.
An internet-only deal is currently being offered on Gundry MD’s site.
All orders over $60 come with free shipping.
The sale reflects a 50% reduction from retail pricing, so MCT Wellness is relatively expensive as one jar is a 30 day supply. Dr. Gundry offers a 90-day, full-money-back guarantee if you're not satisfied with this product.
Caprylic acid supplements are offered by other retailers, though pricing, dosage, and method of delivery differ.
GNC offers an organic caprylic acid supplement at a dose 50% larger than what is contained in Gundry’s formulation; it is currently on sale for $23.99. Piping Rock offers their supplement in softgel pill form for just $5.61, though one pill is less than 15% the caprylic acid dose contained in Gundry’s product.
Caprylic acid can also be found naturally in the milk of mammals and coconut oil. Though these can be more cost-effective means of obtaining caprylic acid, 1tbsp of coconut oil has about 20% the amount found in a single serving of Gundry’s product.
Loading up in this manner greatly increases the amount of fat and calories you consume, which may be unsafe with conditions like obesity, diabetes, or heart disease. Additionally, MCT has been demonstrated to be a superior appetite suppressant when compared to coconut oil.
MCT Wellness consists of pure caprylic acid, which promotes the formation of ketones to boost metabolism, energy, and mental sharpness. This ingredient is supported by grape seed and currant extracts to help deliver the ketones throughout your body.
The caprylic acid dose in MCT Wellness appears to be safe and effective for overweight individuals and those with Alzheimer’s disease. These effects appear to be possible regardless of your dietary selection, though they may be enhanced when taken in conjunction with a ketogenic diet.
Nonetheless, you should always include a medical professional in the decision to start new supplements.
Posted on Dec 21, 2022
I like everything about the product. Especially the taste. It’s delicious. My only complaint is that I use a measured scoop once a day and went through almost the whole jar in just 22 days. I didn’t use more than one leveled scoop a day.
Makes me sad.
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
Taste
Consistency
Cleared my mind
Price
Amount
Posted on Nov 15, 2022
Ordered two jars this first week of September. Bit expensive and a shy short of a 30-day supply.
Great tasting. Not on a keto diet.
Watched the video and wanted to try mainly for more energy, focus, and weight loss. Had a bit of nausea and headache my first few days but definitely helped with my appetite. Kept me feeling full for a while. Also noticed a leaner body which I love! I strength train 3x a week.
May try other similar options only because of the price.
Definitely recommend if price not an issue.
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
Taste
Appetite suppressant
Good ingredients
Price
Initial headache
Nausea
Posted on Oct 9, 2022
This product has not worked as promoted for me. I have been taking it as directed for two months. What could I be doing wrong? Do you have any suggestions?
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
No “pros” were specified in this review
It’s not working
Company Response from Gundry MD
Nov 9, 2022
Hello Rose Ann. My name is Aria, I am with Gundry MD. I’m sorry to hear that you aren’t seeing results yet. We always recommend that you continue to use the product for the full span of your 90-day Money Back Guarantee to ensure the absolute best results. Other customers in similar situations have seen success by increasing their daily water intake and avoiding processed foods. As well as adding raw vegetables to their diet, such as asparagus, garlic, dandelion greens, chicory root, artichokes, and onions. These vegetables contain natural prebiotics, which can greatly improve the effectiveness of your supplements. If you are still not seeing your desired results you may return it for a full refund. If you ever have any questions in the future, my email is Aria@gundrymd.com. Have a nice day.
Posted on Aug 24, 2022
So far so good. This is my 3rd week. I began mostly for energy. I have definitely noticed an improvement in brain fog during the 2nd week. Energy is very slowly improving. At least I am beginning to feel like I am trying to get out and walk. I am a 65-year-old woman and fairly healthy. Only on meds for cholesterol, thyroid, and BP. I have high hopes for more improvement. Also helps with hunger. I promised myself I would give myself 4-5 weeks for improvement.
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
Overall feeling better and memory is sharper
Stomach issues improving
Energy improving
I purchased 4 jars at a discount, expensive but might prove to be worth it
Posted on May 27, 2022
The flavor is awful...not all of us like watermelon.
The clumps are awful. I've tried numerous ways to dissolve...eventually gave up, and started using a straw for drinking so I wouldn't waste product by leaving clumps in the bottom of the glass.
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
No “pros” were specified in this review
Flavor - hate watermelon, wish I would have known before ordering (try orange or black cherry, heck, even lemon/lime)
Inability to dissolve, even in hot water first - wasteful clumps in bottom of glass
Extremely pricey - people that really need help can't possibly afford this
Company Response from Gundry MD
Jun 8, 2022
Hello Pen. My name is Aria, I am with Gundry MD. I'm sorry to hear that you are not enjoying our formula. Other customers in similar situations have found they enjoy the taste when mixing one scoop of MCT Wellness with their favorite juice or smoothie. Here are some tips that may help you mix the MCT Wellness in your water. I recommend adding 1 scoop of MCT Wellness to an empty glass and slowly mixing the powder as you pour the water into your glass. If using a shaker bottle, I recommend adding the MCT Wellness to your shaker bottle first, then add half of the suggested amount of water and shake. Once you see the product dissolving, add the rest of the water and shake the bottle again until fully mixed. The suggested water amount is 8 oz. per scoop, however, if you would like to increase the amount you are welcome to do so. If you have a blender or a whisk, this is also a great option to help the powder dissolve completely. We do understand that our product may not be the best fit for everyone. For this reason, we stand by our 90-day money-back guarantee. If you are still unhappy with our formula, you may return it for a full refund. Also, we strive to keep our formulas as affordable as possible while using only the highest quality of ingredients to ensure the best product for our customers. When price reductions are possible, we are happy to pass those savings along to our customers. We recommend signing up for our email newsletters and/or text club. You will be instantly notified of offers and discounts. If you ever have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. My email is Aria@gundrymd.com. Have a nice day.
Posted on May 25, 2022
I started using MCT Wellness on April 19th, 2022 and as of today, I have 2 scoops left. The label says there are 30 servings. I used a full scoop. I do feel like I have more energy, I started exercising in December and have lost 11 pounds, it does fluctuate 1-3 pounds up and back down. I haven’t been able to exercise in 2 weeks. I do watch what I eat and have been taking the MCT. It may be helping keep the weight at the right place, meaning I planned to lose the 11 pounds and so far so good, 5 months and still consistent.
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
The energy it seems to provide
The brain seems to be sharp
It may be helping with weight management (loss)
The taste
There isn’t 30 full scoops in the 8.8 oz jar
Company Response from Gundry MD
Jun 8, 2022
Hello Andisean. My name is Aria, I am with Gundry MD. I am trilled to hear you are starting to see great results. However, I apologize that you did not receive the full 30 servings. I would like to offer you a free replacement jar of MCT Wellness. Please email me at Aria@gundrymd.com. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Have a nice day.
Posted on Apr 18, 2021
I regularly enjoy Gundry MD's Vital Reds and Primal Plants. MCT is a perfect addition for me this Spring, increasing sharpness, energy, and stamina.
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
Easy to use
Tastes good
Beats morning foggy brain or energy slump in afternoon
Hard to wait for delivery
Posted on Feb 27, 2021
I enjoy using MCT Wellness as an afternoon pick-me-up. I can tell it is getting about 3pm as my energy starts to lag. To get me through the rest of the day I use one scoop of the MCT Wellness in a large insulated container. I like the flavor and I use cold water so it is very refreshing.
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
I like that it is in powder form and mixes easily with water
The flavor is very refreshing and a nice break from straight water
The scoop - I always get a little on the handle and it spills on my desk
Posted on Feb 24, 2021
We really enjoyed the MCT Wellness. It has a delicious flavor and we even enjoyed mixed into some yogurt. I look forward to my MCT drink first thing in the morning, I’ve had it for a month or so...didn’t see drastic results. Perhaps some more mental clarity.
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
Flavor
Hard to mix
Posted on Feb 24, 2021
I have been using this product for about a month now and what is most noticeable is cognitive ability. Having suffered from a massive stroke at the young age of 24 and fibro fog my short-term memory was in dire need of help and this product has really helped.
The Gundry products have renewed my life literally with hope, energy, and vitality that has been missing for years. Being disabled and practically bedridden and unable to do hardly anything for so long is now a thing of the past. So happy!
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
Cognitive improvement
Easily dissolves
No “cons” were specified in this review
Posted on Feb 24, 2021
MCT has enabled me to experience clearer thought processes, less mental stress, and less brain fatigue, and faster recovery. I have already recommended it to other friends!
Length of Use: Less than 3 months
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Pros and Cons
Easy to take
The results
The taste
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