Lean Optimum » MCT Oil » Quest Nutrition MCT Powder Review (2024): Is It Effective and Worth Buying?

Quest Nutrition MCT Powder Review (2024): Is It Effective and Worth Buying?

Dominic D’Agostino, Ph.D., is a famous medical doctor who recommends Quest Nutrition MCT Oil Powder, among other supplements.

I’ve read a lot about him and listened to his opinion on dietary supplements and a healthy lifestyle on his Joe Rogan Experience podcast.

And if he’s using Quest Nutrition, it means there’s something good to it.

I researched all its ingredients to see if this supplement can compete with other, more expensive ones on the market.

I’ve found some benefits along with some misrepresented facts, and not all its ingredients are stellar.

Is this supplement worth your time?

Is this the best MCT oil you can buy?

Let’s find out…

What is Quest Nutrition MCT

Quest Nutrition is a reliable brand that retails nutrition supplements, including Quest Protein Powders and Coconut Oil Powder.

MCT Oil Quest

Many happy customers appreciate their affordable products, quality ingredients, and friendly customer service.

MCT is a supplement intended for those who follow a ketogenic diet or people who want to lose weight.

This powder is made with MCT oils, which are, in fact, healthy fats.

You can add a scoop of this powder into your smoothie or morning coffee to reduce your appetite, gain more strength before workouts, or replace a meal.

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What’s in Quest MCT Oil Powder? Flavors & Taste

The ingredients include:

Medium Chain Triglycerides

MCTs are fatty acids with a medium-length carbon chain.

What is MCT

These fatty acids are the easiest to break down into ketones in your body when it comes to supplements.

Short-chain fatty acids have the shortest chain of carbons, but they can’t be turned into supplements.

Long-chain fatty acids take longer to metabolize, so they’re not an efficient source of energy.

MCTs are also not created equal:

C6 (Caproic acid) is the MCT with the shortest chain, but can’t be used in dietary supplements because of its bad taste.

C8 (Caprylic acid) is the easiest MCT to decompose into ketones that can be turned into a supplement. As a result, it gives you the biggest burst of energy, and it increases your ketone levels quickly if you’re already on keto.

C10 (Capric acid) takes longer to convert into energy, but it will give you a sustained energy boost and help maintain your ketosis.

C12 (Lauric acid) has the longest carbon chain of all the MCTs, so it’s almost like an LCT (long-chain triglyceride). Though C12 won’t give you a lot of energy fast, it is still a healthy type of fat that increases satiety. C12 is also renowned for its immune-boosting properties because research shows it can fight bacteria and viruses.

The problem with the MCTs used in Quest’s MCT is you don’t know what these MCTs are.

You can intuit they’re not pure C8 like Perfect Keto because:

  • Quest MCT oil powder costs less, which is probably because it uses low-cost MCTs like C10 and especially C12.
  • Assays on a label, you can use it for baking. You can’t use C8 and C10 MCT to cook a baked treat because their burning point is 320F, but also you can cook with any keto coconut oil.

It is made with oil, which contains mostly C12 Lauric acid but is advertised as a powder to get more customers. That’s not lying per se, but they’re still is a world of difference between this product and Perfect Keto.

Soluble Corn Fiber

Soluble Corn Fiber

When you read the label, you notice two big words: “NO MALTODEXTRIN.”

However, a quick search for corn soluble fiber shows you that’s exactly what it is: maltodextrin.

Although maltodextrin has a bad reputation among keto-ers because it adds carbs to their supplements, this ingredient has various proven benefits, including:

Low sugar content

A healthy source of dietary fibers

Increases calcium absorption

Promotes digestive health

Prebiotic effect

Lowers insulin after meals, so it’s a good helper on low-carb diets

Long term weight management

Sodium Caseinate

Sodium caseinate, aka casein, is a milk-derived protein shake that’s commonly used as a food additive.

Sodium CaseinateAlthough it doesn’t have any dangerous effects on your body, it is not vegan, and it can trigger your allergies to lactose.

Casein is a good source of amino acids, calcium, phosphorus, and sodium – all of which are essential when you’re on keto.

Casein can also replace carbs, which is another advantage for keto-ers.

Sunflower Lecithin

This ingredient boasts several important benefits both for those following keto as well as non-keto-ers:

  • It lowers cholesterol. When you’re on keto and upping your total fats intake, you need something to help you keep your cholesterol in check.
  • It improves heart health. Long-term keto has been associated with cardiovascular issues, so it’s good that QuestNutrition included an ingredient to lower the risk.
  • It helps improve digestion. Keto flu is not fun, and most supplements trigger at least mild diarrhea because of their high-fat content, whereas sunflower lecithin counteracts this issue.
  • It can improve your memory. Lecithin has been shown to alleviate the symptoms of dementia, so it can potentially improve mental functioning. When you start burning fats for energy instead of carbs, you may experience mental fog until your brain catches up to things. Lecithin alleviates this symptom so that you can stick to your keto diet.
  • Moisturizes skin. If you have skin issues because of your previous high-carb diet, lecithin can help you alleviate them. When you first start keto, you lose a lot of water from your cells that keep the fat stored in your cells. As your cells deflate, your skin might look less shiny, but lecithin helps you continue to look your best self.

Silicon Dioxide

Silicon Dioxide

Dioxide is a compound of silica and oxygen, and it’s used as a safe anti-caking agent.

This ingredient poses no known risks unless you overdose on it or inhale it, though scientists agree they need more long-term studies.

Here’s what facts I like about these ingredients:

  • They appear to be safe
  • They can improve your health and help your weight loss
  • They can prevent various issues associated with a ketogenic diet
  • You get 4% of your DRV of dietary fiber in one serving
  • The product contains no cholesterol, no carbs, and it’s low-calorie (just 60 calories/ serving)

Here’s what I don’t like:

  • It’s not clear what MCTs they’re using
  • Quest MCT appears to be disingenuous about the use of maltodextrin
  • This supplement isn’t vegan
  • This supplement contains no significant amounts of vitamins and minerals

Here’s what I’m ambivalent about:

  • One serving contains 7g of healthy fats. That’s just as good as Perfect Keto and, if you’re using two scoops per day, you’re below the red limit with your consumption of saturated fats, which might pose long-term problems. However, Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil contains 14g of healthy fats per serving, which can keep you fuller for longer. Onnit MCT product contains 13 grams of MCT’s

What About the Taste?

From “one of the best-tasting shakes available” to “Amazing taste and texture- cheat meal worthy!” people are generally happy with this MCT Oil Powder’s flavor, texture, and mixability (mixes easily)
I like how it tastes, as well, especially mixed in my smoothies or morning coffee. I tried mixing it in my tea, but it was not my cup of tea.

My favorite tasting MCT is no secret. I still haven’t found a product as good for my taste buds as Perfect Keto.

Benefits & Potential Side Effects

Quest Nutrition Powder

I’ve already discussed a little bit about the advantages of each ingredient taken separately above, but now let’s make a complete list of benefits:

Can prevent digestive distress because of its added fiber and lecithin

Can help stabilize your blood sugar after meals also thanks to fiber, lecithin, and sodium caseinate

Can improve your mood and enhance your alertness thanks to lecithin

Can give you a significant energy boost before your workouts thanks to the added MCTs

Can help you build a bigger muscle mass as a result of more effective workouts

Can reduce your appetite thanks to the 7g of healthy MCTs

Can replace one meal because it’s low in calories

Can help you stick to your ketogenic diet because it contains 35% DRV of healthy fats and no carbs

Can help you lose weight as a result of all the above

Itt has all the same possible (not the same with probable) MILD side-effects as all supplements, including Carrington Farms, Perfect Keto or Bulletproof:

  • Tiredness
  • Frequent urination
  • Constipation and bloating
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea

How Much Oil Should You Take?

The answer depends on your purposes:

Start with half a serving per day (4.5g) for the first two days until you become accustomed to this supplement, then move on to one serving/ day.

Increase your daily dose until you get to about three servings per day for your breakfast before your workout and as an afternoon snack, for instance. This dose is the maximum recommended amount for most people. 1 lb tub contains 50 servings, which shows good value for money.

Although I don’t recommend it, I saw some online reviewers claiming they take eight servings per day to get into ketosis.

Dosage

I don’t see that going well long-term because of all the calories and fat pumped into their bloodstreams, but I admit it might be a valid short-term solution for some people if their doctors concur.

How Much MCT Powder Should I Take Daily?

According to the MCT website, the MCT powder should be taken at least three times a day, in an amount that equals at least 20% of your daily calories, in addition to the use of fat (that is whole fats like avocado). Powder takes some time to get used to, so you may have to ramp it up gradually if you start low and increase the amount gradually. However, one MCT powder should not contain more than 10 grams of fat, which will help your body metabolize it correctly, so you can expect to start losing fat very quickly.

If you take the recommended amount of MCT powder for weight loss, your daily calorie intake will have to be adjusted accordingly. It is recommended that you keep the powder in your fridge, so you can consume it for breakfast or as a snack with some healthy fat. One of the popular questions that I get is, “How many grams of powder should I take in a day?” Although the official amount differs according to the manufacturer, the site recommends 20 grams per day for weight loss. Although I have also used this product for weight loss, I have recommended to my clients to take about 24 grams per day.

Does MCT Oil Affect Sleep?

It is really good for health but does it also have a sleep-related effect? It’s really great for boosting your metabolism, but it doesn’t do much to help you with your night sleep, but there is coconut oil that has been approved by the FDA, called MCT oil, and it may be the right choice for you. MCT oil is basically a processed form. It has some of the same characteristics, but it is processed in a different way. You can also use it with another product in a cooking recipe or in some bakery products. It does have some of the same properties as coconut per serving size, but it also has the benefit of being a great source of MCT.

MCT stands for mc triglycerides, and these have a high number of calories per gram, and they are also very easy to burn. The type of fat that you choose is really important when trying to figure out which oil to use for a particular health problem. MCT oil has been shown to aid in weight loss. Related: More Resources for Natural Sleep Adriene Mishler is the author of The Unbanking and Unbanking a Butter Cookie which is available on Amazon. Her book is based on Adriene’s first cookbook.

Is MCT Oil Bad for Your Liver?

Nutrition research shows that coconut oil is packed with triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat found naturally in the body. The following facts will help you understand why MCT oil may be great for your body. Healthy fats are like a car’s engine, running on all cylinders. MCTs have more energy in them than saturated fats, which means that even a little can provide a surge of energy when you’re feeling fatigued.

As fatty acids, MCTs have strong immune-boosting properties. So, not only can they benefit your body in a variety of ways, but they can also help your immune system cope with everything from allergies to common colds to viral infections. Research shows that MCTs can lower cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels. This means that MCT oil is good for your heart, your blood pressure, and your overall health. Because MCTs are not digested by your body, you’ll absorb as much of them as you eat.

Is Powdered MCT Oil as Good as Liquid?

No, people shouldn’t become dependent on the product. As with any kind of vitamin, vitamin supplements are meant to supplement what you’re lacking, not replace what you have. Some MCT oil supplements can replace some of the carbohydrates your body needs in order to make energy. Like any kind of food, there are pros and cons. The nutritional benefits are only really good if you’re willing to eat a ton of it, and do not like eating solid food.

Many people can’t tolerate high fat intake or just have a hard time consuming large quantities. If you’re a regular solid food eater and want to increase your energy levels, you should not focus on consuming large quantities of MCT oil supplements. Instead, focus on eating high-quality, nutrient-dense foods, and consume moderate amounts of MCT oil if you need a boost.

Nutricost Mct Oil Powder

Nutricost’s MCT Oil Powder stands out as a top choice for those seeking quality supplements to support their keto or low-carb lifestyle. With a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 2,000 ratings on Amazon, it’s evident that customers are satisfied with its performance. This powder offers convenience and versatility with its easy-to-use format – just one scoop is all you need. The unflavored option provides flexibility for mixing into various beverages or recipes without altering the taste.

Furthermore, Nutricost ensures quality by producing its MCT Oil Powder in a GMP compliant, FDA registered facility, and it’s non-GMO, soy-free, and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. The various sizing options cater to different preferences and usage frequencies, providing options for both occasional users and those who incorporate MCT oil into their daily routine. While priced competitively, the product doesn’t compromise on quality. Overall, Nutricost’s MCT Oil Powder is a reliable choice for individuals seeking a convenient and high-quality supplement to support their nutritional goals.

Is MCT Oil Hard on Kidneys?

MCT (Medium Chain Triglycerides) oil is generally not considered hard on the kidneys. In fact, MCT oil is metabolized differently from other types of fats, which may actually offer some benefits for kidney health. Unlike long-chain fatty acids found in many other dietary fats, MCTs are rapidly absorbed and transported directly to the liver, where they are quickly converted into energy. This efficient metabolism may reduce the burden on the kidneys compared to other fats, which require more processing.

Additionally, MCT oil has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in individuals with certain kidney-related conditions. Some research suggests that MCTs could be beneficial for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) by providing a source of energy that is easier for the body to utilize, potentially helping to preserve kidney function.

However, it’s essential to note that individual responses to MCT oil can vary, and people with pre-existing kidney conditions should consult with their healthcare provider before adding MCT oil or any other dietary supplement to their regimen. While MCT oil is generally well-tolerated, excessive consumption could potentially strain the kidneys, particularly in individuals with compromised kidney function.

Overall, current evidence suggests that MCT oil is not inherently hard on the kidneys and may even offer some potential benefits for kidney health. Nonetheless, moderation and individualized consideration of dietary choices remain important factors in promoting overall kidney health.

Is it OK to Have Quest MCT Powder Before Bed?

Yes. Many sources recommend a good dose before bed because:

Better sleep plus less weight is a good recipe for increased motivation and energy during the next day!

Where To Buy?

Amazon is the cheapest place to get the 16-ounce bottle for around $30 and free shipping, but you can also purchase bigger tubs.

You can also get this supplement on their website, Costco or Amazon. One quick search for MCT s Walmart shows you various other cheaper products if you’re still looking.

Logo / shopping / shop and add to cart

But with all the advantages we’ve discussed so far, $30 is a small price to pay for your monthly tub of Quest MCT Oil Powder.

Get this supplement on Amazon by clicking here. It’s cheaper and gives you more energy than your weekly Starbucks coffee, guaranteed.

Does MCT Oil Help Lose Weight?

The following contains some basic info about MCT oil, which is a dietary supplement containing medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil. MCT oil contains 20 to 30 percent of the number of calories that the human body needs to function properly. The importance of MCT oil is that it provides a good source of energy for weight loss in a form that is a lot more healthful than processed carbohydrates and refined carbohydrates.

Although the fats in MCT oil have not been proven to be as good for weight loss as monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil, MCT oil still offers advantages over eating foods that have a high glycemic index, or more commonly, foods that are high in carbohydrates. Some people may also experience adverse reactions to MCT oil when used in supplements or cooked in a variety of foods. If you have a history of food allergy or sensitivity, it’s best to try a few supplements first before you proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Use MCT Powder?

The frequency of MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) powder usage depends on various factors, including individual goals, overall diet, and specific health conditions. It is generally recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to receive personalized advice. However, in a general context, it can be used daily, but the optimal frequency may vary.

When incorporating MCT powder into your routine, it is important to consider your caloric needs and the potential impact on your macronutrient intake. They are a concentrated source of calories, providing 8-10 calories per gram, compared to 4 calories per gram from carbohydrates or protein. If you are aiming to lose weight, it is crucial to factor in these additional calories and adjust your overall caloric intake accordingly.

Furthermore, MCT powder can be utilized as a supplement to support cognitive function, increase energy levels, or aid in athletic performance. In these cases, the timing of consumption may be specific to the desired outcome. For example, taking MCT powder before exercise can provide a readily available energy source. However, if you are utilizing MCT powder for its potential benefits in weight management or satiety, it may be more beneficial to consume it with a meal.

Lastly, it is worth noting that some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, such as diarrhea or stomach cramps, with high doses of MCTs. Starting with smaller amounts and gradually increasing the dosage can help minimize these side effects. As with any dietary supplement, it is important to monitor your body’s response and adjust your intake accordingly.

Should You Take MCT on an Empty Stomach?

The decision to take MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) on an empty stomach depends on individual goals, preferences, and tolerability. While there is no definitive answer, understanding how MCTs are metabolized by the body can provide insights.

MCTs are easily absorbed and rapidly converted into ketones, which serve as an alternative fuel source for the brain and muscles. Taking MCTs on an empty stomach may lead to quicker absorption and utilization of these ketones, potentially providing a faster boost in energy levels.

However, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, such as stomach cramps or diarrhea, when consuming MCTs on an empty stomach. In such cases, taking MCTs with food can help mitigate these side effects.

Moreover, the specific purpose for taking MCTs can also influence the decision. If the goal is to enhance athletic performance or support intense physical activity, consuming MCTs before exercise on an empty stomach may provide readily available energy. On the other hand, if the intention is to utilize MCTs for appetite control or weight management, it may be more beneficial to consume them with a meal to promote satiety.

As always, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian who can provide personalized recommendations based on individual needs, tolerances, and goals. They can help determine the best timing and dosage of MCTs for optimal results.

Who Should Not Use MCT Powder?

It is a popular dietary supplement known for its potential health benefits. However, there are specific individuals who should exercise caution or avoid its use:

  1. People with Liver or Gallbladder Issues: MCTs are processed by the liver, so individuals with liver disease or impaired liver function should be cautious when using them. The liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing MCTs, and any dysfunction can exacerbate liver stress. Additionally, individuals without a gallbladder may find it challenging to digest and absorb the fats in MCT powder, potentially leading to digestive discomfort.
  2. Digestive Sensitivities and Conditions: People with sensitive digestive systems, such as those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, or chronic pancreatitis, may experience gastrointestinal distress, including diarrhea or cramps, when using MCT powder. MCTs can be harder to tolerate for those with existing digestive issues.
  3. Malabsorption Disorders: Conditions that affect fat absorption, like celiac disease or short bowel syndrome, can be exacerbated by consumption. Malabsorption disorders make it challenging for the body to absorb fats properly, and adding MCTs may lead to further issues.
  4. Allergies or Sensitivities: While MCT is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or sensitivities, including skin rashes, itching, or digestive upset. Allergic responses are relatively rare but can occur.
  5. Children and Infants: it is not typically recommended for infants or very young children due to their developing digestive systems, which may not handle high-fat diets well. This can lead to digestive problems.
  6. Ketosis and Medication Concerns: it is often used to induce and maintain ketosis, particularly for individuals following a ketogenic diet. However, some people with specific medical conditions, such as Type 1 diabetes, or those taking certain medications (e.g., antipsychotics), should consult a healthcare professional before using MCT powder. It can influence blood glucose levels and require medication adjustments.
  7. Overconsumption and Weight Gain: While MCT powder can support weight loss for some individuals, it is calorie-dense. Those seeking weight gain should use it cautiously, ensuring that overall caloric intake aligns with their goals. Consuming MCT powder in excess can lead to unwanted weight loss.
  8. Specific Medical Conditions: People with certain medical conditions, such as pancreatitis, should seek guidance from a healthcare provider before incorporating MCT powder into their diet. It might worsen their condition.
  9. Underlying Health Conditions: Anyone with underlying health concerns, especially if they impact the liver, gallbladder, digestion, or fat metabolism, should consult with a healthcare professional before using MCT powder.
  10. Athletes and Performance Enhancers: While MCTs can provide rapid energy, some athletes or individuals in high-performance sports might experience digestive discomfort when consuming MCT powder immediately before or during exercise. Timing and personal tolerance levels should be considered.

It’s important to note that powder is well-tolerated by many individuals and offers potential health benefits, including improved energy, cognitive function, and weight management. However, if you belong to any of the categories mentioned above or have any health concerns, it’s crucial to seek guidance from a healthcare professional before incorporating MCT powder into your diet to ensure its compatibility with your unique health profile.

Final Verdict. Is Perfect Keto the Best Alternative?

Quest Powder is a good supplement because it’s affordable, it contains 7g of healthy fats from MCTs, and tastes good. Many happy reviewers say they get more energy from this tasty meal substitute.

However, Perfect Keto is the better option because:

It gives you more energy because it’s quickly metabolized thanks to its C8 and C10 composition.

It can increase your ketone level faster because it’s easier to breakdown this powder into ketones

It doesn’t have any sweet, soluble fiber, aka maltodextrin or any other anti-caking agents.

It’s vegan, unlike this product.

It contains healthy, gut-friendly probiotics in the form of Acacia fibers, which work better than soluble corn.

It’s sweetened with Stevia that doesn’t affect your glycemic index.

It tastes better

Although Perfect Keto MCT Oil Powder is more expensive, I have an exclusive 15% discount available now. Just click here and redeem yours.

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