Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) are the primary type of fat found in coconut oil. It has been found to increase cognitive performance in older adults suffering from memory issues including Alzheimer’s disease. Amazingly, positive results can occur after one single 40 milliliter dose.
How medium chain triglycerides work
How could a single dose of MCTs (40 ml or 2.7 tablespoons) cause an almost immediate improvement in cognitive performance in those suffering from cognitive impairments as serious as Alzheimer’s disease?
The brain has unique metabolic needs that MCTs can meet. Typically, glucose is the primary fuel source for the brain. However, when suboptimal metabolism or insulin resistance develops, the brain’s function and structure become compromised. Ketone bodies provide an alternate fuel source to glucose that can boost the metabolic processes in the brain. This results in a near-immediate improvement in cognitive function.
MCTs are different than other fats in our diet. Because of their smaller size, they do not form micelles and are not stored in adipose tissue. Up to 97% of dietary fats are comprised of long-chain triglycerides, which have 14 to 18 carbons. MCTs have chain lengths of 5 to 12 carbons, which makes them easier to absorb and utilize. The liver oxidizes them and produces ketone bodies.
Medium-chain triglycerides were first isolated in the 1950s and were used to manage epileptic seizures.
MCTs are essential for the development of babies’ brains.
They are found in abundance in human breast milk and are included in some brands of baby formula.
Additional MCTs are given to premature infants to give them the extra energy boost they need to thrive.
There are four fatty acids that are used to build MCTs and they are responsible for the health benefits including:
Weight loss: MCTs can help you reduce and maintain weight without increasing your blood cholesterol levels. According to many studies, MCT oil decreases food consumption, promotes satiety, and increases oxidation of fats and expenditure of energy.
Brain fuel: A 2016 study found that C8 MCT oil and C10 MCT oil can enhance the structure of the brain and boost your memory. MCT fats can play a major role in treating conditions, such as depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and Alzheimer’s.
Digestive health: MCTs have antimicrobial properties. They play an important role in killing bacteria such as Streptococcus, Shigella, and Escherichia. MCTs promote a healthy digestive system.
According to one study, MCTs were a key factor in breastmilk that increased the levels of good bacteria in newborn babies and protected their sensitive digestive systems.
Cardiovascular Health: Coconut oil is rich in MCTs. According to studies, coconut oil can improve your cardiovascular health. Lauric acid has been shown to increase your good cholesterol levels.
How do you incorporate MCTs into your daily routine? Organic coconut oil is a preferred source because its triglycerides contain approximately 67% MCTs by volume. You can try incorporating coconut oil to replace other pro-inflammatory vegetable oils. You can also cook with coconut milk as a base for many dishes like curries. Coconut milk is 25% fat, and about 67% of that is MCT. Begin with smaller amounts of therapeutic foods, especially in the context of sharing, preparing, and enjoying good food. This helps you avoid the “food as medicine” approach for a more delightful way towards a healthy path.