Can pure MCT Oil cause an upset stomach or other GI (gastrointestinal) discomfort?

At times for some people, yes. A good MCT Oil is a pure source of the C8 and C10 fats, whereas normal coconut oil is only about 16% C8 and C10 fats (the medium chain fats). For many first-time users of MCT oil, it is the first time the stomach has taken on such a pure source of these MCTs and as such, it can take a while for some people’s stomach to get used to MCT oil. We recognize this as our labels state “To assess individual tolerance, start with 1/3 serving (1 teaspoon/5ml) with food”. Start there – try in small amounts WITH FOOD, and assess how your body responds. Then escalate the usage to a point where you are comfortable.

Not everybody’s stomach can tolerate every food, and MCT Oil is no different. Our label also states “Some people may experience gastrointestinal upset.” That can range from just a small discomfort, or all the way to difficult bowel movements for some first-time users.

In general: start small (eg: 5 ml) of MCT oil; use WITH food. Incidentally, that is also how we use it in some of our protein powders – at a low usage level per scoop - and none of those consumers of those powders, have reported any MCT oil discomfort. Not everybody’s stomach can handle 1-3 tablespoons of pure MCT Oil on its own, daily, right on day 1. We all respond to different foods and food ingredients each in our own unique way. Hope this info helps you on your MCT oil journey.