Is MCT C8 better than C10?

November 22, 2025 •

4 min read

Research has shown that C8 MCT can increase plasma ketone levels significantly more than C10 MCT over an 8-hour period. The question of is MCT C8 better than C10 truly depends on individual health goals, whether seeking a rapid energy boost or more sustained metabolic support.

Quick Summary

A detailed comparison of C8 and C10 MCTs, outlining their distinct metabolic pathways and primary benefits for energy, mental clarity, and gut health to help determine the best choice for individual needs.

Key Points

Ketogenic Potency: Pure C8 is significantly more ketogenic, producing a higher spike in ketones faster and more efficiently than C10.
Energy Release Profile: C8 provides a rapid burst of energy, whereas C10 offers a more gradual and sustained fuel source, which is better for endurance.
Gut Health Specialization: C10 is particularly noted for its potent antifungal and antimicrobial properties, beneficial for combating yeast overgrowth and supporting a healthy gut microbiome.
Cognitive Enhancement: Due to its faster ketone production, C8 is often preferred for boosting immediate mental clarity and focus, making it a favorite for cognitive performance.
Blended Benefits: Many supplements use a blend of C8 and C10 to provide a balanced combination of both fast and sustained energy along with antimicrobial support, suitable for daily use.
Digestive Tolerance: C10 tends to be gentler on the digestive system than pure C8, which can cause digestive issues for some, especially at higher doses.

Understanding the Fundamentals of MCT Oil

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are a type of fat molecule composed of fatty acids with 6 to 12 carbon atoms. Unlike longer-chain fats, MCTs are rapidly absorbed and sent directly to the liver for conversion into ketones, a powerful energy source. While many oils, including coconut oil, contain a mix of MCTs, many supplements offer concentrated versions of specific fatty acid types, most commonly C8 and C10.

C8 MCT: The Fast-Acting Energy Powerhouse

Caprylic acid (C8), with its 8-carbon chain, is the shortest and most rapidly metabolized of the readily available MCTs. This makes it the most efficient at producing ketones, which are used for immediate energy by the brain and body.

Key Benefits of C8 MCT

Superior Ketone Production: Due to its shorter chain, C8 is converted into ketones faster and in higher quantities than any other MCT, including C10. This is particularly beneficial for those following a ketogenic diet to get into and maintain a state of ketosis.
Enhanced Mental Clarity: The rapid production of ketones from C8 provides a clean, immediate fuel source for the brain, helping to clear brain fog and improve cognitive function and focus.
Appetite Control: The ketogenic effect of C8 can help curb cravings and increase feelings of satiety, which can support weight management efforts.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Some studies have shown that C8 possesses powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly beneficial for gut health.

C10 MCT: The Sustained and Supportive Sibling

Capric acid (C10) has a 10-carbon chain, which means it takes slightly longer to convert into ketones than C8. This difference in chain length provides a different metabolic profile and a unique set of benefits.

Key Benefits of C10 MCT

Sustained Energy Release: While not as rapid as C8, C10 provides a steadier, longer-lasting source of energy. This can be advantageous for prolonged activities or for avoiding the more intense energy peak associated with C8.
Potent Antifungal Properties: C10 is particularly noted for its antimicrobial and antifungal capabilities, most notably against strains of Candida. This makes it valuable for supporting a healthy gut microbiome.
Immune System Support: Some research suggests that C10 can help enhance immune function. Its antimicrobial effects can help the body fend off certain infections.
Balanced Option: For those who find pure C8 too potent and experience digestive issues, C10 or a C8/C10 blend can be a gentler introduction to MCT supplementation.

C8 vs. C10 Comparison Table


Feature	C8 (Caprylic Acid)	C10 (Capric Acid)
Carbon Chain Length	8 carbon atoms	10 carbon atoms
Speed of Conversion	Very Rapid	Moderately Rapid
Ketogenic Effect	Highest	Moderate to High
Primary Energy Type	Quick Boost	Sustained Release
Best for Ketosis	Kickstarting and maintaining deep ketosis	Supporting general ketosis
Best for Cognitive Function	Immediate mental clarity and focus	Steady brain fuel over time
Primary Gut Health Benefit	Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects	Antifungal and antimicrobial effects
Cost	Typically higher priced due to purity	Generally more affordable
Potential Side Effects	Higher chance of digestive issues for beginners	Gentler on the digestive system

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between C8 and C10, or a blend, depends on your primary health objective. For a fast-acting, high-impact ketogenic effect that boosts immediate mental focus and energy, C8 is the clear winner. This is ideal for pre-workout fuel, morning coffee boosts, or for those serious about maximizing ketone production. For a more gradual and sustained energy supply, along with significant antifungal and gut health benefits, C10 offers a compelling alternative. A common approach is to use a blend of both C8 and C10 to leverage the unique advantages of each, providing a balanced energy profile and comprehensive support.

Practical Application and Dosage

Regardless of your choice, proper dosing is key to avoiding gastrointestinal discomfort. It is recommended to start with a small amount, such as half a teaspoon, and gradually increase to 1 to 2 tablespoons daily. MCT oil can be added to coffee, smoothies, salad dressings, or other beverages. Using MCT oil on an empty stomach can increase its ketogenic effect, while consuming it with a low-carb meal can prolong the effect and mitigate side effects.

Conclusion: It Depends on Your Goal

While the question of is MCT C8 better than C10 can be debated, research shows C8 is superior for rapid and potent ketone production, making it the top choice for those prioritizing immediate energy and enhanced cognitive performance. However, C10 provides a steadier energy release and possesses specific antimicrobial properties that C8 does not emphasize as strongly, making it excellent for long-term sustained energy and gut health. A C8/C10 blend offers a balanced solution, combining the best aspects of both. Your final decision should align with your specific wellness goals, dietary tolerance, and budget. For those with severe malabsorption issues, MCTs are more easily digested than longer-chain fats, though C8 is the most rapidly absorbed of all.

To optimize your ketogenic response, consider consuming MCT oil after an overnight fast or with a low-carbohydrate meal.

Best Practices for Using MCT Oil

Start with a low dose (e.g., 1 teaspoon) and increase gradually to assess tolerance.
Mix into coffee, tea, or smoothies, as adding it to drinks is a popular way to incorporate it.
Avoid using MCT oil for high-heat cooking to prevent the degradation of its beneficial properties.
Combine with a healthy, balanced diet for optimal results.
Be aware of potential digestive side effects, especially with higher doses or pure C8.
Use a blender for certain applications, like 'Bulletproof coffee,' to better emulsify the oil.

Citations

Tricaprylin Alone Increases Plasma Ketone Response More Than Coconut Oil or Other Medium-Chain Triglycerides: An Acute Crossover Study in Healthy Adults, ScienceDirect
C8 or C10 MCT Oil? Which is Best?, Hunter & Gather
The Use of Medium-Chain Triglycerides in Gastrointestinal Disorders, Practical Gastroenterology, University of Virginia School of Medicine

Frequently Asked Questions

Both C8 and C10 MCT oils can support weight loss by promoting satiety and boosting metabolism. However, since C8 is the most ketogenic, it can be more effective for boosting fat burning and maintaining ketosis, which is central to a fat loss strategy.

Yes, you can cook with MCT oil, but only at low to medium heat. Its smoke point is lower than many common cooking oils, and high-heat frying can damage the beneficial fatty acids. It's best used in smoothies, coffee, or added to foods after cooking.

A C8/C10 blend combines the most effective MCTs to offer the best of both worlds. It provides a rapid energy boost from the C8 and a more sustained energy release from the C10, alongside the antimicrobial benefits of C10, making it a balanced choice for overall wellness.

Both pure C8 and C10 MCT oils are typically colorless, odorless, and flavorless, making them easy to mix into a variety of foods and beverages without affecting the taste. Concentrated products should have a neutral taste.

For those following intermittent fasting, C8 is often preferred due to its highly efficient conversion into ketones, providing quick energy to sustain a fast without breaking it with carbohydrates. C10 can also be used but will produce a less pronounced ketone spike.

Common side effects, particularly for beginners or those taking too high a dose, can include gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. C8 is more likely to cause these issues than C10 due to its faster absorption. It's best to start with a small dose to allow your system to adjust.

For acute, rapid cognitive benefits like clearing brain fog and improving focus, C8 is considered more effective because it converts into ketones more quickly. However, both C8 and C10 can provide valuable fuel for the brain, and sustained use of either can support overall brain health.

C8 MCT oil is typically more expensive because it requires more processing and distillation to isolate the caprylic acid from the other MCTs in the source oil (like coconut oil). A higher purity product with a greater concentration of C8 commands a higher price.