DrFeb
Health Guide

Lauric acid

Lauric acid is a medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA) found predominantly in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Unlike long-chain fats, lauric acid is metabolized differently by the body, providing a quick source of energy. It is also renowned for its unique antimicrobial properties. When consumed, the body converts it into a substance called monolaurin, which helps fight off pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This makes it a fascinating compound for immune support and metabolic health.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Metabolic Pathway Speed: MCT vs LCT

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Speed of Ketone Production
Fat Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Antimicrobial Defense: Converted to monolaurin in the body, which can destroy harmful pathogens.
  • Energy Boost: As an MCT, it bypasses normal digestion to provide rapid fuel for the brain and body.
  • Brain Health: Supports cognitive function by increasing ketone production.
  • Skin Health: Often used topically to moisturize and protect the skin barrier.

Deep Dive

Lauric acid is unique because it behaves somewhat like a carbohydrate in terms of energy delivery but with the satiating power of fat. About 50% of the fat in coconut oil is lauric acid. Research suggests that its derivative, monolaurin, is effective against lipid-coated viruses and bacteria. While it is technically a saturated fat, studies indicate it may not raise LDL (bad) cholesterol as significantly as longer-chain saturated fats, though it does raise HDL (good) cholesterol.

Natural Food Sources

While available in supplements, lauric acid is best absorbed from whole food sources.

FoodAmount (Approx per 100g)% Daily Value (Est)
Coconut Oil47gHigh
Coconut Milk21gHigh
Palm Kernel Oil48gHigh
Coconut Butter15gModerate

Supplementation

Dosage: There is no official RDA for lauric acid. However, consuming 1-2 tablespoons of virgin coconut oil daily provides roughly 8-16g of lauric acid.

Who should take it? Individuals looking for natural antimicrobial support, those on a Ketogenic diet for energy, or people seeking to support skin health topically.

Top Food Sources

Virgin Coconut Oil
47g per 100g
Coconut Milk (Canned)
21g per 100g
Coconut Cream
15g per 100g
Palm Kernel Oil
48g per 100g
Coconut Butter
15g per 100g

Frequently Asked Questions

Not exactly. Coconut oil is roughly 50% lauric acid. Lauric acid is the specific fatty acid component within the oil.
No. Lauric acid is very heat-stable. However, heating coconut oil too long can degrade the quality of the oil. It is safe for medium-heat cooking.
Yes. Human breast milk contains lauric acid, which helps pass on passive immunity to infants.
It may help indirectly. MCTs like lauric acid are satiating and can boost metabolism slightly, but they are still high in calories.

Safety & Side Effects

Lauric acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when consumed in normal food amounts.

Side Effects: High doses may cause digestive upset, including diarrhea or stomach cramps, especially when starting supplementation.

Interactions: There are no known major drug interactions. However, because it is a fat, it may affect the absorption of certain medications if taken in very high quantities.

Caution: Those with a history of high cholesterol should monitor their levels, as lauric acid does raise LDL, though it also raises HDL. Always choose virgin, unrefined sources to avoid processed trans fats.

Scientific References

  • [1]Enig, M. G. (1998). *Saturated Fatty Acids and Coconut Oil: A Review*. (Analysis of metabolic effects).
  • [2]Dayrit, C. S. (2012). *The Properties of Lauric Acid and Their Significance in Coconut Oil*. (Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society).
  • [3]Horton, D. (2015). *Monolaurin: A Review of Antimicrobial Properties*. (Study on lipid-coated viruses).