Medium chain fatty acids (MCTs) are carbonaceous chains containing 6 to 12 units.
They too, like the short and long ones, can structure diglycerides or triglycerides through an ester type bond between two or three chains and a glycerol skeleton.
The richest sources of commercial extraction of medium chain fatty acids are: coconut oil and oil of certain seeds.
Medium chain fatty acids have a considerable nutritional importance. They are present in human breast milk, but in lower quantities than long chains; in contrast, MCTs abound in horse milk.
According to some studies, the consumption of medium chain fatty acids in the diet can promote weight loss in case of overweight. Furthermore, in the field of sports nutrition, it is well known that MCTs are an excellent source of energy during athletic effort (even if there is no confirmation of improved performance).
It is however good to remember that most of the results obtained on the experimentation of medium chain fatty acids in sport come into conflict with the results obtained from other scientific works.
However, concerning certain merits of the MCTs, it is not possible to discuss. First of all, medium chain fatty acids do not require the secretion of bile salts for digestion; secondly, they boast the ability to passively pass from the gastro-intestinal tract to the portal blood system (instead of entering the lymphatic circle like long-chain ones). They are therefore ideal for those who suffer from chronic malabsorption.
Recall that although they are easy to digest, absorb and metabolize, under hypoglucid diet conditions, MCTs are not free from the risk of metabolic acidosis (indeed, they seem to favor it).
Medium chain fatty acids are often used in artificial feeding, in the treatment of Waldmann's disease and it is reasonable to prefer them over those with long chains since they appear to have a positive effect on HDL cholesterol
