Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT)

• Consisting of fatty acids with 8-12 carbons has been used therapeutically since the 1950s in the treatment of fat malabsorption, cystic fibrosis, epilepsy, weight control, and to increase exercise performance.

• It hydrolyzed in the intestines and the fatty acids are transported directly to the liver via the portal venous system, in contrast to long-chain fatty acids, which are incorporated into chylomicrons for transport through lymphatic system or peripheral circulation.