Medium chain triglycerides (MCT) are partially manufactured fats, made by processing coconut and palm kernel oils, and contains less calories than typical fatty acids.
Because MCT's are shorter and more soluble in water than LCT (long chain triglycerides), they absorb quickly, digest fast and easily, and are often used, along with other medications, to treat absorption disorders.
MCTs require no energy for absorption, use or storage and passively diffuse from the gastrointestinal tract into the blood stream.
Due to their accelerated metabolic conversion, the calories carried by MCT's, are productively used as preferred energy source by organs and muscles, in stead of being stored as fat.
Some studies have reported that MCTs help with excess calorie burning, fat oxidation and reduced food intake, contributing to significant weight loss over time. Additionally MCTs can promote muscle building, post-exercise recovery and prevent catabolism (breakdown of proteins under strained conditions), making it a popular choice for athletes.
Research also suggests that MCTs may be useful in treating a number of diseases, including: chyluria, rare lung condition called chylothorax, gallbladder disease, AIDS, cystic fibrosis, Alzheimer's disease, and seizures in children.
How it works:
MCTs require no energy for absorption, use or storage and passively diffuse from the gastrointestinal tract into the blood stream.
MCTs encourage the production of ketones thereby minimising glycogen depletion, muscle breakdown and damage during exercise.
It also acts as amino acid carriers, supporting protein delivery to the muscles.
Sources for extraction of beneficial MCTs include palm kernel oil and coconut oil.