Health Hotline Magazine | October 2023

FOUR PROVEN

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By Liz Mueller

The words medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) may not conjure images of vibrant health, mental for

titude, optimal energy levels, and a healthy weight. You might even be inclined to shy away because the word ‘triglyceride’ has been taught as something to fear. But it’s time to demystify MCT once and for all so we can collectively reap the health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a brain boost , a new tool to help with weight loss and metabolic health , or searching for a pure source of energy to help you on the pickleball courts, MCT is for everybody! MCT Is a Brain Changer Our brains require more energy than any other organ, and most of that energy comes from glucose. But when glucose levels are low (have you ever experienced brain fog when you haven’t had anything to eat for a while?), or when there is impaired glucose metabolism in the brain, as in the case with Alzheimer’s disease, MCT can provide an easy-to-use source of energy to brain cells. MCT is unique because of the way it is absorbed and used by the body—when ingested, it is effi ciently converted into ketones, an alternative fuel source the body and brain can use instead of glucose, and unlike glucose, which creates reactive oxygen species (i.e., oxidative stress) when burned for energy, ketones do not, making them a “cleaner” source of energy. Those ketones can cross the blood-brain barrier to rapidly supply your brain with fuel as an immediate and clean energy source, supporting and enhancing cognitive function. MCT taken in supplement form is rapidly converted to ketones in the liver soon after ingestion and encourages your body to switch to a metabolic state in which it burns fat for energy and the brain is able to utilize ketones, in addition to glucose, for energy.

MCT

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