Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT)

Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT)

What is it?

• MCTs are made of three fatty acid chains (6-12 carbons long) which are attached to a glycerol particle. MCTs are readily available for absorption into the GI tract and bloodstream.

What is it used for?

• MCT is utilized for the management of GI disorders (malabsorptive disorders-pancreatic insufficiency, chyle leaks, short bowel syndrome). MCT has also been shown to reduce CAD, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, and obesity.

How it works in the body?

• The digestion and absorption of MCTs is a faster process when compared to long chain triglycerides. MCT does not stimulate CCK and is absorbed through passive diffusion. MCT attaches to albumin and travels from the GI tract into the portal system. Following this step, no further changes of the MCT model are required [37].

Evidence for and against:

• A review conducted in 2016 does not show enough evidence to support that MCT oil decreases the risk of cardiovascular risk [38].

• Further research is needed on a large scale in order to prove the effect of MCT oils on Alzheimer's disease [39].

• A randomized control trial concluded that an MCT-rich diet can have the same effect as a ketogenic diet on epilepsy [40].

• Intake of MCTs has a greater effect on reducing body weight when compared to long chain triglycerides [41].

Safety concerns, side effects, and precautions:

• When taking large amounts of MCT oil, Gl distress can occur (bloating, diarrhea, cramping, gas).

• When cooking with MCT, the temperature should be <150 °C/302 °F. This allows for a reduction in oxidation and therefore, savors the taste of the food.

• When administering MCT oil through a feeding tube, it is important to flush the tube with water before and after [37]. MCTs do not contain essential fatty acids; therefore, another source of essential fatty acids should be provided to the patient in order to prevent deficiency.

Dosage:

• One tablespoon/15 mL of MCT oil = 14 g fat +115 kcal. Recommended maximum dose for improving GI disorders: 50-100 g/day (equivalent to -4-7 tablespoons/60-100 mL/day). MCT supplementation should be slowly advanced to the maximum dose.