Free Fitness Articles - Custom Bodies

Articles & Research

Certified: National Academy of Sports Medicine

What is MCTs and Their Role in Our Health?

MCTs (or medium chain triglycerides), are a class of fatty acids with an unusual chemical structure that allows the body to digest them more easily. Most fats are broken down in the intestine, remade into a special form that can be transported in the blood, then used as an energy source and/or fat storage. MCTs, however, are absorbed intact and then taken to the liver, where they are used directly for energy. MCTs resemble carbohydrate activity and are similarly processed. MCTs are often used as fat substitutes, especially for people who have trouble digesting fat.

Recent studies indicate that MCTs can also promote ketosis, a fat-burning state that can cause weight loss. In ketosis, the body burns stored fat for energy. Ketosis is the body’s natural mechanism to provide energy when the body is in starvation or unable to get renewed energy sources from intake of food. When there are no energy-enriched sources consumed, the body turns to the fat storage to feed the cells the required energy to maintain normal body functioning.*

MCTs also help with malabsorption of fats. Those who have pancreatic insufficiency, or other related symptoms and disease, can feed the body the required fat it needs for proper functioning. Because MCTs’ rapid absorption and metabolism, this fuel source can help spare the body from taking energy sources from lean muscle mass and help prevent body fatigue. In fact, MCTs help maintain muscle mass because they produce an energy source that does not require much amino acid activity. Amino acid activity, especially during vigorous exercise, has a tendency to glean energy from lean muscle mass when no other energy source is available.*

Like other fats, MCTs provide more energy per ounce than a carbohydrate, but unlike normal fat, this energy is release very rapidly, providing energy boosts. MCTs are found in coconut oil, palm kernel oil and butter.** Because these sources are also loaded with saturated fats, the best method to getting MCT intake is through supplementation. The nutrition industry forecasts new products on the horizon that provide energy sources containing MCTs without packing in a lot of carbohydrate and fats into the body.

*Bach AC and Babaya VK. Medium triglycerides: a review. Am J Clin Nutr 36:950, 1982 through Sports Nutrition “Medium Chain Triglycerides MCT”; April 17, 2003 http://www.ahealthyadvantage.com/topic/topic100587832/FONT/P

**Medium Chain Triglycerdies/Vitamin Guide Index HealthNotes Company, 2002 copyright http://www.healthnotes.com/FONT/P

Biometics’ unique blend of omega-3 and botanical-enriched antioxidant formula, CELL CARE contains Flaxseed Oil and Menhaden Fish Oil (fatty acids), Lycopene, Lutein and Zeaxanthin, as well as balance of other important nutrients. CELL CARE supports complete cellular protection against the damaging effects of aging and pollution. Biometics has is the most advanced liquid nutrition available on the market. Purchase only the finest! Biometics is the best supplement solution for maximum absorption of the vital nutrients your body needs everyday. Click here to find out how to improve your energy and health today!!!

The information on this web site is intended for information reference purposes only and is not intended as a substitute to professional medical advice. Prior to participating in any exercise program or activity, it is recommended that you seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care professional. None of the information on this web site should be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition.