MCT Frequently Asked Questions
Do MCTs work differently depending on body weight and fitness level?
Short answer – yes. As you read above in how MCTs effect exercise, elite athletes benefit less from MCTs as they are already at peak fitness, capacity, and metabolic flexibility. On the flipside, for weight loss extremely obese individuals lose weight slower than more average individuals [46]. This is likely due to greater inflammation and metabolism suppression in the greatly obese, which will become mitigated over time.
Difference between triglycerides and fatty acids
A triglyceride is a complete fat, while fatty acids are single chains. A complete triglyceride contains 3 fatty acids attached to a glycerol backbone. While triglycerides and fatty acids are different, the terms are often used quite interchangeably. This is because triglycerides can be broken down into fatty acids by lipoprotein lipase in several different tissues.
Difference between MCT Oil and Exogenous Ketones
MCT oil is composed of fats while exogenous ketones are composed of only ketone bodies. The breakdown of MCT oils does create ketone bodies. However, exogenous ketone supplements create a state of nutritional ketosis much faster. Comparatively, MCT oil is a highly ketogenic food while exogenous ketones quickly (though strictly) raise blood ketone levels.
MCT Oil sources
Medium chain triglycerides can be found in a wide variety of foods. For supplemental use, MCTs are most commonly collected from coconut oil and palm oil. Milk is also a common source of MCTs alongside other fats.
Original article can be found here: https://teamketo.com/blogs/articles/unlocking-medium-chain-triglycerides
