Nearly all fats contain at least some MCT: mid-chain triglycerides. The stuff you purchase that’s specifically called ‘MCT Oil’ is generally derived from fractionated coconut oil and may contain any combination of C6, C8, C10 and/or C12 fatty acids. One could potentially experience an adverse reaction to any one or more of these when used as a supplement rather than in it’s natural occurring form in a matrix of other fatty acids. C6, C8 and C10 are unique in that they can be utilized for energy without metabolic processing.
Allie’s comment way upthread (#2) is so important: always try something new in very small amounts and work up slowly only if nothing bad happens in response. The OP started with a “tablespoon” which could be anything from 20-30 grams, depending on the spoon. A more appropriate initial dose would have been 5 grams. Assuming her reaction was actually caused by the MCT she would have noticed something and maybe have decided MCT was not for her before it caused the more serious reaction she decribed here. In addition, she mixed the MCT with a “tablespoon” of heavy cream which again could be anything from 20-30 grams. If she simply mixed this combination with a spoon rather than a blender or emulsifier, she was drinking an oil slick. That alone might cause an adverse reaction.
Fractionated MCT oil is consumed daily by millions of folks with no adverse effects. In fact, the health benefits of MCT oils are well documented. Yes, as with virtually everything, some folks have adverse reactions and it’s unfortunate the OP apparently did so. But, really, there is no justification to condemn MCT oils generally and warn everyone else of the so-called danger of consuming them. Even someone who has a negative reaction to MCT oil, might very well tolerate coconut oil and receive the benefits of MCT without the downside. Just my 2 cents.
PS: I should also mention that the so-called ‘Liquid Coconut Cooking Oil’ you can purchase in any grocery store is MCT oil, generally a mix of C8, C10 and C12, but it probably contains more C12 than anything else. That’s what makes it cheaper than the MCT Oil you purchase in health food and supplement stores. It might also eliminate any adverse issues one might have with MCT oils that have more concentrated C6, C8 and C10.