Is it better to drink coconut oil at night or in the morning?

October 23, 2025 •

2 min read

According to nutritional experts, the timing of supplement intake can significantly influence its effectiveness in the body. Deciding whether to drink coconut oil at night or in the morning depends largely on your personal health objectives, as each timing offers distinct benefits due to its unique metabolic pathway.

Quick Summary

The ideal time to consume coconut oil depends on your wellness goals. Morning intake is optimal for energy and metabolism boost, while evening consumption may benefit digestion and promote satiety. The high medium-chain triglyceride content influences its effects, making timing a key factor for maximizing specific health outcomes.

Key Points

Morning for Energy: Drinking coconut oil in the morning on an empty stomach can boost metabolism and provide sustained energy throughout the day.
Night for Digestion: Taking coconut oil before bed may help soothe the digestive system and promote feelings of fullness to aid restful sleep.
Supports Weight Goals: Morning intake can suppress appetite and boost metabolism, while evening intake can curb overnight hunger to support weight management.
High in MCTs: Coconut oil's health benefits come from its medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are rapidly converted into energy by the liver.
Start Slow: To avoid digestive discomfort, begin with a small dosage (e.g., one teaspoon) and gradually increase as your body adjusts.
Quality Matters: For optimal health benefits, choose high-quality, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil.
Consult a Professional: Individuals with high cholesterol or heart conditions should consult a doctor before adding coconut oil to their diet due to its high saturated fat content.

Deciding the Optimal Time to Drink Coconut Oil

For those incorporating coconut oil into their wellness routine, understanding the science behind its absorption is key to maximizing benefits. Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized differently than the long-chain fats found in other oils. Instead of being stored, MCTs are rapidly processed by the liver, providing a quick source of energy. This unique property is what makes timing your intake so important for achieving specific results, whether that's fueling your day or supporting your body overnight.

The Case for Drinking Coconut Oil in the Morning

Drinking coconut oil in the morning on an empty stomach is popular for those seeking enhanced energy and metabolism. The body quickly converts MCTs into energy, bypassing traditional digestion. Benefits can include a metabolism boost through thermogenesis, sustained energy without crashes, appetite suppression, and improved mental clarity from ketones.

The Arguments for Nighttime Coconut Oil Consumption

Drinking coconut oil at night offers benefits primarily focused on internal regulation and overnight recovery. Some find it supports digestion, aids restful sleep by stabilizing blood sugar, and enhances skin health due to its hydrating and antimicrobial properties.

Comparison of Morning vs. Night Intake


Feature	Morning Intake	Night Intake
Primary Benefit	Energy and Metabolism Boost	Digestion and Satiety Support
Effect on Weight Management	Kickstarts metabolism and suppresses daytime appetite.	Curbs overnight hunger and may aid in overnight fat burning by maintaining ketosis.
Effect on Energy Levels	Provides a rapid, sustained source of energy for the day.	May increase energy levels, which could disrupt sleep for some individuals.
Effect on Digestion	Stimulates bile production for better fat digestion in the morning.	Soothes the digestive system and promotes nutrient absorption overnight.
Best for Active Individuals	Ideal as a pre-workout fuel for sustained performance.	Less beneficial for immediate energy, but may aid muscle recovery.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

Coconut oil is calorie-dense, and excessive consumption can lead to weight gain. Start with a small amount (e.g., one teaspoon) to avoid gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. Choose high-quality, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil. Consult a healthcare professional if you have high cholesterol or a history of cardiovascular disease due to its saturated fat content.

How to Incorporate Coconut Oil into Your Routine

For morning intake, add a teaspoon to coffee or a smoothie for a creamy texture and energy boost. If preferred, take a spoonful straight. For a nighttime routine, blend it into a warm tea like chamomile.

Conclusion: Which Time is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best time to drink coconut oil depends on your wellness goals. Morning intake is ideal for a metabolic kickstart, weight management, and sustained energy. Nighttime consumption may be better for digestive comfort and overnight satiety. Experiment with both timings and monitor your body's response. Start with a modest dose to effectively use coconut oil's properties for your health.

Visit the American Heart Association for guidelines on saturated fat intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, many people take coconut oil on an empty stomach to boost energy and metabolism. However, some may experience mild digestive issues like nausea or diarrhea, so it is best to start with a small amount.

Yes, adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to your morning coffee (often called 'Bulletproof coffee') is a popular way to consume it. It provides a creamy texture and an energy boost from the MCTs.

A typical dose ranges from one teaspoon to two tablespoons per day. It is recommended to start with a smaller amount and increase gradually to gauge your body's tolerance.

Coconut oil may support weight management by boosting metabolism and promoting satiety, which can help reduce overall calorie intake. However, it is high in calories, so moderation is key.

For some, the energizing effect of MCTs could potentially interfere with sleep if taken too close to bedtime. Others find it promotes satiety that helps prevent midnight hunger pangs.

When consumed regularly, the healthy fats and antioxidants in coconut oil can nourish the body from within, supporting skin hydration and hair health.

Coconut oil is high in saturated fat, which can raise LDL ('bad') cholesterol in some individuals. Those with high cholesterol or a history of cardiovascular disease should consult a doctor before consumption.

MCT oil is a more concentrated source of medium-chain triglycerides, derived from coconut and/or palm kernel oil. While coconut oil contains MCTs, it is less potent and is absorbed more slowly than pure MCT oil.

Yes, coconut oil can be used for cooking, but it has a relatively low smoke point, making it better for sautéing or low-heat applications than for frying.