From the Research
For seizure prevention, the ideal MCT oil composition should contain a high proportion of caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10), with C8 making up about 60-70% and C10 about 30-40% of the total MCT content, as supported by the most recent study 1.
Key Considerations
- The ratio of C10 to C8 in the MCT oil is an important factor for efficacy, with a combination of both acids showing enhanced anticonvulsant effects 1, 2.
- A daily dosage typically starts at 15-20 ml per day, divided into 3-4 doses mixed with food, and may be gradually increased to 30-45 ml daily based on tolerance and effectiveness.
- Starting with small amounts (5 ml per dose) and slowly increasing can help minimize gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and nausea.
Mechanism of Action
- MCT oil works for seizure prevention by being converted to ketones in the liver, providing an alternative brain energy source that has anticonvulsant properties 3.
- These ketones cross the blood-brain barrier and help stabilize neuron excitability.
Optimal Use
- For optimal effectiveness, MCT oil should be used consistently as part of a daily routine, ideally taken with meals containing some fat to improve absorption and reduce digestive discomfort.
- Some patients may benefit from combining MCT oil with a modified ketogenic or low-carbohydrate diet for enhanced seizure control.
Supporting Evidence
- A study published in 2023 found that MCT oil supplementation reduced seizure frequency in adult patients with intractable epilepsy, with a significant reduction in seizure rate 3.
- Another study published in 2021 found that a diet supplemented with MCTs reduced convulsive seizure frequency and mortality in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome, with the ratio of C10 to C8 being an important factor for efficacy 1.