Health Guide

Glyceryl dilaurate

Glyceryl Dilaurate (GDL) is a fat-like substance known as a 'medium-chain triglyceride' (MCT) found naturally in coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and breast milk. While often used in cosmetics as an emollient, when ingested, your body breaks it down into glycerol and lauric acid. Lauric acid is famous for its antimicrobial properties, and glycerol provides energy. Think of it as a 'smart fat' that supports your metabolism and immune defenses.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Antimicrobial Potency of Lauric Acid Sources

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Antimicrobial Activity Score

Source →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Immune Defense: Breaks down into lauric acid, which converts to monolaurin in the body—a compound known to fight viruses and bacteria.
Energy Boost: As an MCT, it bypasses normal digestion for rapid fuel, helping with stamina and keto diets.
Skin & Gut Barrier: Helps maintain healthy mucous membranes in the gut and skin.

Deep Dive

Unlike long-chain fats that are hard to digest, Glyceryl Dilaurate is processed quickly by the liver. Its main superpower is Lauric Acid. This fatty acid comprises about 50% of coconut oil. Research suggests that when lauric acid interacts with digestive enzymes, it creates monolaurin, a substance that can destroy the lipid coating of harmful pathogens (like flu viruses). For everyday health, this means GDL acts as a preventative shield while providing clean, non-crashing energy.

Natural Food Sources

The best way to get Glyceryl Dilaurate is through whole foods rich in medium-chain triglycerides.

Food	Amount	% DV (Approx)
Coconut Oil	1 tbsp	High (6-7g)
Palm Kernel Oil	1 tbsp	High (5-6g)
Breast Milk	3 oz	Moderate (0.5g)
Coconut Meat	1/2 cup	Moderate (3g)
Whole Milk	1 cup	Low (0.2g)

Supplementation

Dosage: There is no official RDA. Common supplement doses range from 1,000mg to 2,500mg daily. Who should take it: Those on strict ketogenic diets, athletes needing quick fuel, or individuals looking to boost natural immune defenses without using synthetic antibiotics. Tip: Look for 'MCT Oil' supplements, as they naturally contain high amounts of GDL.

Top Food Sources

Coconut Oil

Source of Lauric Acid

Palm Kernel Oil

Industrial extraction source

Coconut Meat

Raw / Dried

Breast Milk

Natural for infants

Butter

Trace amounts

Frequently Asked Questions

Not exactly. GDL is the 'package' (a triglyceride) that contains Lauric Acid. Your body must break the package apart to release the Lauric Acid.

No. Supplemental GDL (usually MCT oil) has a low smoke point. It is best taken as a liquid supplement, added to coffee or salads.

It may help. MCTs like GDL can increase satiety (fullness) and slightly boost metabolism compared to other fats, but it is not a magic pill.

In food amounts (like coconut milk), yes. For concentrated supplements, always consult a pediatrician.

Safety & Side Effects

Glyceryl Dilaurate is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when consumed in normal food amounts.

Potential Side Effects:

Digestive Upset: High doses (especially on an empty stomach) can cause 'disaster pants' (loose stools or cramping). Start with a small amount.
Calorie Dense: It is a fat; consuming excess can lead to weight gain.

Who Should Avoid:

Those with a history of atrial fibrillation (AFib) should consult a doctor, as rapid MCT intake can trigger irregular heartbeats in sensitive individuals.
People with severe liver impairment should avoid concentrated MCTs.

Scientific References

[1]Journal of Nutrition (2000) - 'Lauric Acid: A unique medium-chain fatty acid with antiviral and antimicrobial properties.'
[2]American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2015) - 'Metabolic effects of medium-chain triglycerides in humans.'
[3]NIH Dietary Supplements Fact Sheet - 'Coconut Oil and Health'.