Caprylic acid
Caprylic acid is a saturated fatty acid containing eight carbon atoms, making it a medium-chain fatty acid or medium-chain triglyceride (MCT). (1)
Caprylic acid is in the milk of various mammals and is a minor constituent of coconut oil.
Caprylic acid may help
- Support the immune system
- Relieve Candida Albicans and thrush
- Promote skin health
- Reduce cholesterol levels
Benefits
1) Supports the immune system
Caprylic acid has antifungal properties and can help you fight off yeast infections. It also helps to increase good bacteria in the gut, which improves immune function, lowers inflammation, supports brain function, and decreases the likelihood of allergies and obesity.
2) Relieves Candida Albicans and thrush
A yeast infection in your gut can cause Candida albicans and thrush. Symptoms include bloating, irritable bowels, sugar cravings, fatigue, constipation and even depression. The antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties of the acid can kill yeast in the digestive system. It works well with omega 3 fish oils.
3) Promotes skin health
The acid helps to fight bacteria and germs on the skin and reduces inflammation which can benefit individuals with acne and other skin conditions. Caprylic acid is in coconut oil which you can apply to the skin as a moisturiser. (2)
4) Reduces cholesterol levels
According to a 2006 study, caprylic acid may decrease the build-up of cholesterol in the arteries and lower harmful LDL cholesterol, which may help to reduce the risk of heart disease. (3)
Caprylic acid synergy, and works well with
- Acidophilus to increase friendly bacteria in the gut
- Aloe vera juice for antifungal action and enhancing overall gut flora
- Regucol which contains Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria Bifidum
- Pau D’Arco to help fight bacteria and fungi
- Peppermint oil for antifungal action
Some things to consider
The best way to consume caprylic acid is by consuming coconut oil and palm oil, but you can also take it as a supplement which may be more effective at treating yeast infections.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not take caprylic acid supplements. Individuals who are not pregnant or breastfeeding may want to test how they respond to them. To see if caprylic acid supplements are for you, start with 500mg 1-2 times a day then slowly increase your intake after a few months. If you have taken caprylic acid before, take 1000-2000mg every day approximately 30 minutes before food.
Resources
Last accessed online 29/672020
- https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hn-10005881
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24284257
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16580874
