MCT Coffee has been around for some years now, but has really only become mainstream in line with the realisation that the food pyramid is a pack of lies, and toast and cereal is the worst possible choice to start your day. (I won’t jump on my soapbox about this now, but have written about it in “Fats: the truth!“. I also highly recommend Gary Taubes’ Good Calories, Bad Calories if you would like to learn more).
The what and the why
MCT coffee, otherwise known as a “fat black,” is a concoction of coffee, grass fed butter or ghee and medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), that will kick start your metabolism, promote fat burning, aid satiety and improve mental acuity. It is ideal pre-training to assist fat adaptation and performance, and far superior to your standard latte. Read why you should avoid cow’s milk in “Dairy: the scoop!“.
The how
Ingredients
- 1/3 – 1/4 cup organic coffee beans, ground
- 1 tablespoon grass-fed unsalted butter or ghee
- 1 teaspoon Melrose MCT oil
Method
- Make a standard espresso using a coffee machine or your preferred method.
- Add hot water to a blender to pre-heat.
- Empty water and add coffee, butter and MCT oil and blend for 20-30 seconds or until creamy and well combined.
How do you enjoy your MCT Coffee?
Image by Sarah Craven Photography.
I work in a coffee shop and get asked for.butter and coconut oil along side coffees quite regularly. But then it makes me question how much fat ( good fat) is too much?. If your having eggs at breakfast,nuts or nut butters for snacks, avocado and maybe salmon with lunch, and then cooking meals in coconut oil at dinner time. Is it too much to be having this ontop? So many easier ways to add fat to your diet. I dont mind a teaspoon of coconut oil in green tea but i peraonally dont think.i could enjoy my short black if it had a butter in it.
Hi Steph, will this still work without the butter?
Thanks! 🙂
Yes, but it won’t taste nearly as good!
Sounds extreme…do you recommend having this before a big session ( Bike/ Run) or before a small session (10km run?)
Hi Kel, bulletproof coffee is great before any fasted session!
Hi Steph, firstly love your website! Also is this in place of breakfast or can I still have breakfast after my fasted workout? I am currently trying to become fat adapted both for weight loss and endurance and I don’t want to over do the fat altogether.
Fat intake is an extremely relative decision but as a rule people do not eat enough, especially those coming from a low fat or calorie counting background. Bulletproof Coffees are not compulsory and not everyone enjoys them, but on the other hand they are very effective and enjoyed by many.
[…] from my muscles … I don’t like the taste of coffee, but you can do the same with a “fat black” – read more from the Natural Nutritionist – and if I’m running later in the day, I make sure I run “fasted”, in […]
I have used cacao butter before in my bulletproof coffee’s because I can’t do butter (dairy) – is that still ok for a bulletproof?
Hi Steph, I’m reluctant as my cholesterol is high will this be to much or being good fats should jump on-board and give it a go. Great site.
Absolutely! There are numerous ways to make your bulletproof, stay tuned for some more bulletproof recipes from us soon!
Hello Craig, I encourage you to read our articles The Skinny on Statins and Fats The Truth for further information regarding the importance of good fats. Bulletproofs can be a good addition to your day, pre workout, and as part of a balanced diet which prioritises non-starchy vegetables and quality proteins. As with all things please gauge your body’s reaction and feel free to book in for a complimentary 15 minute skype session here.
I cannot have dairy. What can I use instead of butter that will not ruin the taste or the effect?
Is this in replacement of breakfast or additional. Thanks.
Hello Carmel, it does depend on the individual goals and whether you are focusing on weight loss or sports performance. We offer a complimentary 15 minute session if you feel that you need further guidance with regards to this.
Hello Melanie, you could substitute ghee in place of the butter. Enjoy!
After reading about Dave Asprey, do we need the special “Bulletproof” coffee beans or will regular coffee beans work. If so, do you sell it?