Acid caprilic

Caprylic acid is available in soft capsules containing a standardized amount of caprylic acid obtained from MCT oil. Capsule supplements have the advantage of high bioavailability and easy administration.

Manufacturers - Swanson, NOW Foods, GymBeam, Doctor Life, etc.

Caprylic acid is used for multiple purposes:

• Supporting the balance of intestinal flora by reducing the excessive growth of pathogenic microorganisms, especially Candida albicans (intestinal, vaginal, or oral candidiasis)
• Adjuvant in the treatment of skin and nail mycoses (onychomycosis)
• Supporting immunity due to its antiviral and antibacterial effects
• Improving dermatological problems associated with bacterial or fungal infections
• Supports metabolic and digestive health, helping to normalize digestion and prevent chronic inflammation
• Adjuvant in reducing body weight by improving fat digestion and intestinal function.

Due to its ability to act selectively on pathogenic microorganisms without affecting beneficial intestinal flora, caprylic acid is a valuable natural alternative to certain conventional antimicrobial treatments.

The usual recommended dose for adults is 1 capsule (600 mg) twice daily, taken before meals with sufficient water. 

In certain antifungal protocols, the dose may be adjusted according to tolerance and therapeutic objective, as recommended by a doctor or nutritionist. It is important not to exceed the daily dose indicated by the manufacturer.

The administration of caprylic acid is contraindicated in the following situations:

• Known hypersensitivity to caprylic acid or the product's excipients
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding (due to insufficient clinical studies on safety)
• Children and adolescents, except in cases where administration is recommended and monitored by a pediatrician
• Patients with severe liver disease or rare metabolic disorders related to fatty acid metabolism.

Caprylic acid has the particularity of acting selectively on pathogens without destroying the beneficial intestinal microbiome, which differentiates it from classic antibiotics. 

To maximize the antifungal effect, it is recommended to combine it with a diet low in simple sugars, thus reducing the nutritional substrate of fungi. 

Caprylic acid is generally well tolerated, but gastrointestinal symptoms such as gastric irritation, abdominal discomfort, or diarrhea may sometimes occur.

If you experience any unpleasant symptoms, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Caprylic acid may have minor interactions with some medications such as anticoagulants, antihypertensives, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Concomitant administration with probiotics is beneficial, supporting the restoration of the intestinal microbiome. There are no significant food interactions, but a low-carbohydrate diet may improve the effectiveness of treatment.

Accidental overdose is rare, but can cause severe gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhea, abdominal cramps). If an amount well above the recommended dose is ingested, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Caprylic acid should be stored in its original packaging, tightly closed, at temperatures below 25°C, in a dry place, protected from frost and direct sunlight. After opening, the product can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Keep out of the reach of children.

• WebMD, Caprylic Acid
• Healthline, Benefits of Caprylic Acid
• PubMed, Antibacterial Effects of Hydrogen Peroxide and Caprylic Acid on Selected Food Bacteria
• PubMed, Short-term antifungal treatments with caprylic acid and carvacrol or thymol induce a synergistic 6-Log reduction of pathogenic Candida albicans by disrupting the cell membrane and inhibiting the efflux pump