What is MCT (Medium Chain Fatty Acid)?

Have you ever thought about why coconut oil, which is widely used in diets and healthy snacks, has become so popular lately?

Some foods have short, medium and long chains depending on the number of carbon atoms they contain. It is divided into three: Foods such as coconut oil, palm kernel oil, milk fat and butter are medium-chain fatty acids.

Why should we consume them?

Mct group fats, on a calorie basis. It is approximately 1 calorie lower than other oils. But this does not mean that you can consume it with peace of mind. While other fat groups are metabolized, they join the lymphatic circulation, use body tissues such as muscle and fat tissues, and then reach the liver. While Mct fatty acids are converted into ketone bodies and used for energy, they reach the liver directly and are metabolized quickly, without entering the body circulation.

Considering all these pathways, MCT fatty acids are effective in reducing blood cholesterol and preventing the formation of arteriosclerosis, compared to other fat groups, in the weight management process. Although they are known to be effective, they have been proven.

The Apple of the Ketogenic Diet

Since Mct fatty acids also transform into ketone bodies, they are included in nutrition for the treatment of neurological disorders. In addition, increasing ketone bodies has positive effects on health in the treatment of diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Therefore, in these diseases, you can include MCT oils in your diet in line with your energy needs.

Attention to Heat Interaction

The most important point to pay attention to, especially in oils, is heat interaction. MCT fatty acids, which have very low melting points, are available in liquid form at room temperature (see: coconut oil). Chemical interactions increase in oils exposed to high temperatures and become harmful to health. Therefore, they should be consumed without direct contact with heat.

Add it to your Pre-Exercise Diet

The most important point to pay attention to in a pre-exercise meal is; correct nutritional content and not negatively affecting performance during training. A meal or shake made with Mct fatty acids will be easily metabolized. While it does not cause swelling, it will positively affect your fat loss and blood values.

It Should Be Consumed Within Limits

Although we write about its healthy effects, it is important to note that mct fatty acids are fat. We must consume without forgetting. Studies indicate that the maximum tolerable amount of MCT fatty acid is 25-30 grams. Consuming more than this amount may cause nausea, vomiting, bloating, digestive system disorders, abdominal cramps and diarrhea.

 

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