whats the difference between c8 and c10 mct oil

WHATS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN C8 AND C10 MCT OIL? AND HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT FAT FOR YOUR KETO JOURNEY!

Written by: Suzie Walker

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Time to read 8 min

Ever stood in the health food aisle and stared at a sea of MCT oil bottles? 


Yeah, me too. 


MCTs, or medium-chain triglycerides, are the cool kids of the fat world. They’re the saturated fats in coconut and palm kernel oil that have exploded in popularity over the past few years.


But here’s the thing - not all MCTs are the same! Yep... confusing, right?


C8 and C10 are the heavy hitters in the MCT world, and are the most sort-after varieties of this wonder-oil. 


But what is the difference between C8 MCT Oil and C10 MCT Oil?


Let's find out...

c8 mct oil c10 mct oil on keto

MCT Oil: The Fat of the Keto Diet

It’s hard to choose the right MCT oil. There are so many brands and options to choose from. Where do you start?


Well, here’s what you need to know when choosing the best MCT oil for you!


Regular MCT oil is a blend of medium-chain fatty acids: C8, C10 and C12. This blend gives you more energy, better brain function and potential weight loss support


However the concentration of individual MCTs can vary between brands and manufacturing processes.


composition of mct oil


When looking at cheaper MCT oil products, research is key. Check the ingredients and manufacturing process. Look for products that clearly state the concentration of C8 and C10 and any additives or preservatives.


A lower price doesn’t mean lower quality but you need to know what you’re getting.


MCT oil supplements come in various forms - capsules, powders and gels. These can be convenient if you struggle to get oil into your daily routine. They give you a concentrated dose of MCTs but again, always check the label for the ratio of C8, C10 and other MCTs in the product.

difference between c8 and c10 mct oil

What’s the Difference between C8 and C10 MCT’s?

MCTs or Medium Chain Triglycerides are dietary fats found in coconut and palm oils.


They’re like the express train of energy - your body processes them quickly and turns them into fuel instead of storing them as fat. Perfect for a keto boost!


Unlike long chain fatty acids which have more than 12 carbon atoms MCTs have 6-12 carbon atoms and are easier for the body to metabolize quickly. 


Let’s focus on the two stars of the MCT world: C8 and C10.

C8: The Speedster

  • 7% of coconut oil
  • Caprylic acid
  • Converts to energy in minutes

  • Great for quick energy boosts and physical performance

C10: The Slow Burner

  • Also 7% of coconut oil

  • Capric acid

  • Doesn’t give an immediate energy kick

  • Powerful antifungal properties, boosts immunity



Many products combine both C8 and C10. You’ll find them in:

  • Vegan keto MCT oil powders

  • Keto creamers with coconut oil powder and grass fed butter

  • Collagen keto coffee blends

These products give you sustained energy and additional health benefits like immunity and support for hair, skin and nail health.

benefits of c8 and c10 mct oil

Is C8 MCT oil better than regular MCT oil for health benefits?

So now you know the difference between the two, the question remains: 


Is pure C8 MCT oil better than regular MCT oil? 


Let’s find out.


C8’s claim to fame is its quick energy boost. It’s like the espresso shot of MCT oils - fast acting and potent. Plus it might calm down gut inflammation. Athletes and those who need quick energy swear by it.


C10 is the unsung hero of immunity. It has antifungal properties that can keep your gut healthy. Some research even suggests it can boost immunity in breastfed babies.


Regular MCT oil with its mix of C8 and C10 is like having both a sports car and a people carrier in your garage - you’re ready for anything.


So which one’s better? It depends on what you need. If you need quick energy C8 might be your best bet. But for overall health benefits regular MCT oil is a tie.


which mct oil is better


Remember everyone’s body is different. What works for your keto loving neighbor might not work for you. Try it out and see which one makes you feel like a superhero.


Before you get started chat with a healthcare pro. They can help you figure out which oil is best for your health goals and lifestyle.

what does c8 and c10 mct oil do to the human body

What does MCT C8 caprylic acid do to your body?

Ever wondered what happens to your body when you take C8 MCT oil? Let’s look and see how it can turn you into a keto superhero...

The C8 Experience

  • Energy Boost Without the Jitters: C8 doesn’t mess around. It goes straight to your liver and converts to ketones faster than you can say “butter coffee”. The result? A steady energy buzz that keeps you going without the coffee crash.

  • Brain Fog Gone: Those ketones aren’t just for your muscles. They’re brain food too. Many people feel sharper and more focused after taking C8.

  • Workout Wonder: C8 is like rocket fuel for your workouts. It’s quickly absorbed and used for energy which might give your exercise routine a nice kick in the pants.

  • Appetite Tamer: Feeling hungry? C8 might help. It can make you feel fuller for longer which might put a leash on those pesky cravings.

  • Germ Fighter: It’s got antibacterial and antifungal properties. Yeast infections and certain skin conditions might not stand a chance.

  • Gut Guardian: Some research suggests it can help with digestion and overall gut health.




Remember everyone’s body is different. What makes your keto loving neighbor feel like Superman might do nothing for you. Start slow, listen to your body and find your own C8 sweet spot.

side effects of c8 and c10 mct oil

C8 MCT Oil Side Effects

Let’s face it, nothing’s perfect - not even our beloved C8 MCT oil. While it’s generally safe, there are a few side effects you should know about. I’m not here to scare you off just to inform you.


The Digestive Drama


The most common side effect? Your gut might throw a tantrum. We’re talking loose stools or even diarrhoea. It’s like your digestive system is saying, “Whoa, what’s this new stuff?”

Pro tip: Start small and work your way up. Give your body time to adjust. It’s a marathon not a sprint.


Allergy Alert


Got a coconut or palm kernel allergy? Proceed with caution. C8 MCT oil often comes from these sources. If you start itching, breaking out in hives or having trouble breathing, that’s your cue to stop and call your doc stat.


side effects of c8 mct oil


Calorie Conundrum


Here’s a twist - C8 MCT oil is calorie dense. If you’re watching your weight be careful not to overdo it. It’s easy to accidentally boost your calorie intake which could throw a wrench in your weight loss plans.


Other Party Poopers


Some people might experience abdominal pain or vomiting. If these symptoms persist or get worse it’s time to chat with a healthcare pro.


Remember everyone’s body is different. What works for your keto-loving neighbour might not work for you. 


By knowing what to look out for you can enjoy the benefits of MCT oil without any surprises. Stay informed, start slow and listen to your body. After all it usually knows best!

powdered c8 and c10 mct oil

Other Medium Chain Triglycerides Oil Forms

What about c6 and c12 Mct Oil I hear you ask.


Let’s expand our MCT oil discussion to include the whole family. 


C6: The Problem Child


  • Also known as caproic acid
  • The shortest MCT but not always the sweetest
  • Can cause stomach upset and tastes terrible

  • Often removed from MCT oils because of this

    why c6 mct oil is removed from supplements infographic

C12: The Outsider


  • Lauric acid - the longest MCT

  • Makes up 49% of coconut oil

  • Behaves like a long chain fat in the body

  • Good for immune support but not as quick for energy

  • While C12 is the longest of the MCTs it’s still shorter than long-chain fatty acids so the body can metabolize it easier


Most MCT oils focus on C8 and C10 because they’re the stars of MCTs - not too short, not too long but just right for quick energy. C6 is usually left out because of the side effects and C12 is considered too long to be a “true” MCT.


When choosing your MCT oil think about what you want. Quick energy? Go for C8 heavy oils. Gut health? Look for a C10 blend. Overall health benefits? A blend of C8, C10 and even some C12 might be your best bet.

liquid c8 and c10 mct oil

MCT Powder or Liquid?

MCT oil, a staple in low-carb and keto diets, comes in two forms: powder and liquid. Both pack a punch for quick energy but have their own quirks. Let’s break it down.

Powder Power

MCT oil powder is liquid MCT oil that’s been spray-dried. It’s got some perks:

  • Gentler on sensitive stomachs

  • Easy to carry around

  • Mixes well into drinks and food

  • Contains a binding agent for better texture

But here’s the catch - it might not pack as much MCT punch per serving because of those extra ingredients.

Liquid Gold

Liquid MCT oil is the pure stuff, no frills attached. It’s got its own set of benefits:

  • Absorbs quickly for a fast energy hit

  • More MCTs per serving

  • Good for salad dressings and recipes

  • No extra ingredients

The downside - it doesn’t play well with heat and can go bad if you’re not careful.

mct oil in c8 and c10 form

Finally On… C8 MCT Oil vs C10 MCT Oil

So there you have it - the lowdown on C8, C10 and all things MCT. Whether you’re a keto enthusiast, an athlete looking for an edge or just someone looking to boost your health, MCT oil might be worth a try.


Remember, though, it’s not a magic potion. It’s a tool in your health toolkit alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise. And like any tool it works best when you use it right. It isn't a licence to eat a load of carbs!


Start small, listen to your body and don’t be afraid to experiment. Maybe C8 will be for you, or perhaps a blend of MCTs will be the ticket. Everyone’s different and that’s what makes this journey fun!

Suzie Walker - Keto Collective

SUZIE WALKER 

Keto Collective Co-Founder & Naturopathic Nutritionist dipNT.CNM 


Suzie has researched and reviewed the many health benefits of low-carb living. She co-founded The Keto Collective, a company that aims to make it easier to find whole food, great tasting, keto alternatives to their everyday favourites.

Read more about Suzie Walker