Caprylic acid C8 (targeted MCT)

Tier 2 — promising · Ketosis · Cognition · Gut antimicrobial

The 8-carbon medium-chain fatty acid (C8) is the most ketogenic of the MCTs, bypassing the lymphatic system and converting to ketones in the liver within 30 minutes. Gram-for-gram it produces roughly 3× the ketone elevation of a standard C8/C10 blend and 6× that of coconut oil. Used clinically in the Axona formulation for mild Alzheimer's disease. Has direct antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans at the gut concentrations reached during oral dosing. Common starting dose is 5 g and builds gradually — starting at full dose reliably causes GI upset.

Dose: 5–15 mL/day pure C8 MCT oil; start with 5 mL to avoid GI distress; more ketogenic than standard MCT