What is the difference between Coconut Oil vs. MCT Oil?

Here are the key differences between coconut oil and MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) oil:

Source and Composition
Coconut oil is extracted from the meat of mature coconuts. It contains both medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) like lauric acid (around 15%) as well as longer-chain fatty acids like palmitic acid.
MCT oil is a concentrated supplement made by extracting only the MCTs, typically caprylic and capric acids, from coconut or palm kernel oil. It contains 100% MCTs.

Absorption and Metabolism
MCTs in MCT oil are rapidly absorbed and metabolized, providing a quick source of energy, and promoting ketone production. This makes MCT oil useful for ketogenic diets.
The longer-chain fatty acids in coconut oil take longer to digest and metabolize compared to the MCTs.

Benefits
MCT oil may help with weight management, cognitive function, exercise performance, and controlling epilepsy due to its ability to increase ketones.
Coconut oil provides lauric acid which has antimicrobial and moisturizing properties. It may support heart, brain, and skin health.

Uses
MCT oil is best consumed as a supplement or added to foods/drinks due to its low smoke point.
Virgin Coconut Oil has a higher smoke point, making it better suited for low- to medium-heat cooking.

In summary, while both provide MCTs, MCT oil is a more concentrated source that is rapidly metabolized, while coconut oil contains a mix of MCTs and longer-chain fatty acids with different absorption rates. MCT oil may be preferable for boosting ketones, while coconut oil has other benefits like antimicrobial effects. Their ideal uses also differ.