Caprylic acid or octanoic acid is a fatty acid which is found in human breast milk and in the tropical oils palm and coconut.
Caprylic acid encourages the growth of probiotic bacteria in the digestive system.
What it does
- Anti-Candida: it appears to be incorporated into the membranes of Candida cells, causing them to rupture and die. In addition to Candida, caprylic acid has also been shown to be effective against other gastrointestinal yeast species such as Geotrichium and Rhodotorula.
- Sugar Cravings: Caprylic acid can help to reduce the sugar cravings associated with Candida.
| Purpose | Description |
| Antifungal Agent | it exhibits potent antifungal properties and is commonly used to treat fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species. It can help inhibit the growth of fungi and restore balance to the microbiome. |
| Gut Health Support | it may promote gut health by targeting harmful bacteria and yeast overgrowth in the digestive tract. It can help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora and support optimal digestion and nutrient absorption. |
| Cognitive Function Enhancement | Some research suggests that it may have neuroprotective effects and support cognitive function. It may help improve brain health and cognitive performance, potentially benefiting individuals with neurodegenerative conditions. |
| Weight Management | it is believed to support weight management by promoting satiety, reducing appetite, and supporting fat metabolism. It may help individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise. |
| Skin Care | it has antimicrobial properties that can help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation in the skin. It is commonly used in skincare products to treat acne, oily skin, and other dermatological conditions. |
| Athlete’s Foot Treatment | Due to its antifungal properties, it may be used to treat athlete’s foot, a common fungal infection of the feet. It can help alleviate symptoms such as itching, redness, and scaling, promoting faster healing and recovery. |
| Food Preservation | it and its salts (caprylates) are used as preservatives in food products to inhibit the growth of spoilage organisms and extend shelf life. They are particularly effective against yeast and mold, helping maintain food freshness and safety. |
| Oral Health Support | it may help maintain oral health by targeting harmful bacteria in the mouth that can cause cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. It can be used in mouthwashes or oral care products to promote oral hygiene and reduce the risk of dental problems. |
Potential Uses
| Candida | Oral thrush | Vaginal thrush |
| Athletes foot | Fungal infections |
Caprylic acid is a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) that has a number of potential health benefits, including:
- Fighting Candida overgrowth
- Boosting the immune system
- Improving digestion
- Reducing inflammation
- Promoting weight loss
- Protecting the heart
What does caprylic acid do to Candida?
Caprylic acid has antifungal properties that can help to fight Candida overgrowth. Candida is a type of yeast that lives naturally in the gut and on the skin. However, when it overgrows, it can cause a variety of health problems, such as yeast infections, digestive problems, and fatigue.
How much caprylic acid should I take for Candida?
The recommended dosage of caprylic acid for Candida varies depending on the severity of the infection. For mild Candida infections, a dosage of 1,000-2,000 milligrams per day is effective. For more severe infections, a dosage of up to 3,000 milligrams per day may be necessary.
It is important to note that caprylic acid can cause side effects, such as stomach upset and diarrhea. Start with a low dosage and increase it gradually as tolerated.
Caprylic acid in food
In addition to supplements, caprylic acid can also be obtained from certain foods. Coconut oil is a notable source, making it a valuable addition to your diet. Incorporating coconut-based recipes can be an enjoyable way to introduce caprylic acid into your daily nutrition. Caprylic acid is found in a number of foods, including:
- Coconut oil
- Palm oil
- Goat milk
- Cow milk
- Butter
- Cheese
What should you not take with caprylic acid?
Caprylic acid may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medications. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking caprylic acid, especially if you are taking any other medications.
How does caprylic acid affect the liver?
Caprylic acid is not known to have any negative effects on the liver. In fact, it may even help to protect the liver from damage.
How much caprylic acid does it take to fight Candida?
The amount of caprylic acid needed to fight Candida depends on the severity of the infection. For mild infections, a dosage of 1,000-2,000 milligrams per day is effective. For more severe infections, a dosage of up to 3,000 milligrams per day may be necessary.
Does caprylic acid cause weight gain?
Caprylic acid is a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) that is metabolized differently than other types of fat. MCTs are absorbed directly into the bloodstream and used for energy, rather than being stored as fat.
In fact, some studies have shown that MCTs can help to promote weight loss. A study published in the journal Obesity found that people who took MCTs lost more body fat and had a greater decrease in waist circumference than those who took long-chain triglycerides (LCTs).
Cautions
Caprylic acid is normally absorbed very quickly from the gut into the blood stream, and in order for it to have the desired anti-fungal effects in the gut, caprylic acid must be complexed with minerals to ensure a slower release through the digestive tract.
Caprylic acid should be introduced gradually into an anti-Candida programme to avoid or reduce the “die off” reaction that results from an increased toxic load as the Candida dies.
Do not use in pregnancy or when breastfeeding.
At the time of writing there were no well known negative drug interactions with caprylic acid.
Conclusion
Caprylic acid is a natural fatty acid with a number of potential health benefits, including fighting Candida overgrowth. It is generally safe for most people to take. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, including caprylic acid.
