Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT‘s) are fatty acids derived from natural plant oils. MCTs are more rapidly absorbed and metabolised quicker than Long Chain Triglycerides (LCT’s). This makes MCT‘s an excellent energy source. MCT‘s have also been shown to impart a wide range of health benefits such as improving endurance, increasing fat loss, preventing atherosclerosis and reducing age induced cognitive decline.
MCT’s and Energy Levels
MCT’s help to increase energy levels as they are absorbed and metabolised quickly. MCT’s do not require the presence of carnitine during metabolism, meaning they are able to cross the mitochondrial membrane rapidly. This causes an increase in acetyl-coA, a substance that leads to increased production of ketones that can be used as a direct energy source by the body. MCTs are popular with athletes seeking to increase energy levels and improve endurance during high-intensity exercise. MCTs also serve as an alternative energy source for athletes on high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets.
MCT’s and Fat Loss
As MCT’s are an efficient energy source, they are less likely to be stored as fat by the body compared to LCT’s. MCT’s also have a lower calorific content than LCT’s and have been shown to help to suppress appetite. These points make MCT’s an ideal dietary option when trying to reduce body fat. Research has shown that dietary MCT’s can help to increase fat oxidation which further improves the chances of reducing body fat when using MCT’s.
MCT’s and Health
MCTs have shown to be useful in treating a number of medical disorders, in particular those that involve impaired or damaged fat metabolism. Some of these disorders include cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and cirrhosis. MCT has also been reported to be useful for feeding of newborn infants assisting their initial growth and to contributing to their physiological development. The absorption of calcium and magnesium appears to be enhanced when the diet contains MCTs and the absorption of amino acids also appears to be improved. MCTs can be a useful addition to the diet of those suffering from any form of malnutrition or tissue wasting.
Medium Chain Triglyceride Dosage
Add 150ml – 200ml of water or fruit juice into your TPW Protein Shakers and add five scoops of MCT Powder (10g). Shake well and consume. If you experience any gastrointestinal discomfort initially, try reducing the dosage before gradually increasing the dosage back to the recommended levels.
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