05/13/2019 / By Edsel Cook
Natural health experts are excited about the brain-boosting benefits of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). These fatty acids support healthy heart functions, protect against disease-causing bacteria, and regulate inflammation. Studies suggest that MCT oil could alleviate dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other conditions affecting brain functions.
MCT oil is from coconut oil, which contains considerable amounts of a healthy fatty acid called lauric acid. But MCT oil has up to 18 times more fatty acids. It also features two different fatty acids called capric acid and caprylic acid.
The carbon chain of an MCT is made up of six to 10 atoms. This range happens to be the perfect length for absorption and metabolizing, and people suffering from digestive disorders could easily digest them.
Furthermore, MCTs are immediately burned as fuel for the body. They promote weight loss by reducing fat levels while also increasing the mass of lean muscles. They also improve endurance and performance during physical activity which could prevent muscle wasting. (Related: The neuroprotective benefits of coconut oil.)
The brain uses blood sugar to power itself. If there isn’t enough glucose in the blood, the liver metabolizes body fat into ketones that serve as brain food.
Ketones could be obtained from a ketogenic diet with high levels of healthy fat and low amounts of carbohydrates. But MCTs serve as an even better source of the vital brain fuel.